Category: Community Engagement

🎉 Big Win for BPC: Official Selkirk Sponsorship Announced!
We’re thrilled to share some fantastic news with our Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC) community — we’ve officially been sponsored by Selkirk Sport, one of the premier names in pickleball! This partnership brings a major boost to our club’s mission of growing the sport and supporting players of all skill levels.

🏓 What’s Included in the Sponsorship?

Thanks to this partnership, BPC has received a fully loaded Selkirk Demo Kit, valued at over $1,400 — all at no cost to the club! The kit includes:
- 🥇 Top-tier demo paddles: LUXX, Vanguard Power Air, AMPED, and SLK models
- 🎾 Pro S1 balls: Four 12-packs for club play and demos
- 🧢 Selkirk performance hats: For players and giveaways
- 🎨 Stickers and vinyl banners: To represent Selkirk and boost club branding
This means club members will get to try out premium Selkirk paddles during open play, clinics, and events — and find the perfect paddle before they buy.

🧑‍🏫 Meet Coach Dave Martin – Selkirk Advocate & BPC Pickleball Champion

Coach Dave Martin, Selkirk Advocate and certified pickleball instructor, captures a selfie during a lively training session filled with players preparing for paddle demos and drills

A big shoutout goes to Coach Dave Martin, Selkirk Advocate and a driving force behind our club’s growth. Coach Dave coordinated directly with Selkirk to secure the sponsorship and will be leading paddle demos and providing equipment insights during training sessions.

As a certified pickleball coach and passionate educator, Dave brings experience, energy, and now, exclusive Selkirk access to our members. You’ll see him at the courts helping players find the best equipment for their game.

🤝 How This Sponsorship Came Together

This exciting milestone was made possible through the combined efforts of Coach Dave Martin and a BPC Co-founder, who collaborated closely with the Selkirk team to align our club with their mission of “elevating the game.”

By demonstrating BPC’s commitment to growing pickleball at the local level and building an inclusive, active community, Selkirk recognized the value in supporting our club.

💸 Save on Your Next Paddle with Our Exclusive Code

Ready to take your game to the next level with Selkirk gear?

As part of our sponsorship, club members and friends can now use our exclusive discount code:

🎟️ Coupon Code: CLB-BLOOMINGTON
Use it at checkout on Selkirk.com for savings on select paddles and gear!

This is a great way to support both Selkirk and the BPC while saving on high-performance pickleball equipment.

🏆 What’s Next?

Here’s what you can expect in the coming weeks:
- Demo Days: Try out high-end Selkirk paddles during open play
- Giveaways: Win gear like hats and stickers at upcoming events
- Coaching Clinics: Led by Coach Dave using Selkirk equipment
- Member Discounts: Use CLB-BLOOMINGTON when you’re ready to buy!
🙌 Join the Movement

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, this partnership helps BPC provide even more value to members — with the tools, training, and support to elevate your game.

Let’s show our appreciation by repping Selkirk proudly on the courts and spreading the word about BPC’s growing community.

Stay tuned for upcoming demo events and more exciting updates!

Questions? Want to get involved or try a demo paddle? Reach out to a board member or talk to Coach Dave at the courts!
October 9, 2025
🌟 Why You Should Join Us at PickleCon 2025
Pickleball fans, mark your calendars! PickleCon 2025 is returning August 7–10 at the Kansas City Convention Center—and we’d love to see a strong Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC) presence at this year’s unforgettable event.

Whether you’re a seasoned player, a social rec enthusiast, or just love being part of the pickleball energy, PickleCon offers something for everyone. This massive celebration of the sport features:

✅ 80+ Courts for Open Play
✅ Pro Panels and coaching insights
✅ Vendor Village with top brands and demos
✅ Glow-in-the-Dark Kickoff Party
✅ Tournaments for all skill levels (separate registration)
✅ Puppy Yoga, giveaways, games, and much more!

🎟️ Choose from a Player Pass (includes court access) or Spectator Pass (ideal for fans and families). You can attend for a single day or make it a full weekend experience.

🌟 Highlights from Last Year
In 2024, several of our BPC members attended PickleCon’s inaugural year—and they left energized, inspired, and with Selkirk gear in hand! 🎁

👉 Read our recap from last year here.

We even brought home demo paddles, made national connections, and participated in live Q&A sessions with pros and major brands.

This year promises to be even bigger, and with a few complimentary passes donated by Triple Crown Sports, we’ll be organizing a group of BPC members to attend together.

📸 See the Fun

Thanks to Jessie Hill from Triple Crown Sports, we have a photo album from last year to give you a taste of the experience:
📷 View the 2024 PickleCon Photo Gallery

💬 Interested in Going?

If you’re interested in joining the BPC crew at PickleCon, let us know! We’ll help coordinate carpooling, hotel options, and registration tips. Some members are even volunteering to earn free passes.
🎟️ Volunteer info here: picklecon.com/volunteer-opportunities

Have questions or want to represent BPC in Kansas City?
📩 Email us at bloomingtonpickleballclub@gmail.com or message us on Slack.

Let’s make 2025 another year to remember. See you at PickleCon! 💥🏓
June 6, 2025
🌱 Spring Forward: New Committees, Fresh Courts & What’s Next for BPC
As the weather warms up and the days get longer, the Bloomington Pickleball Club is springing into a brand-new season—one that’s packed with fresh energy, exciting changes, and more ways to get involved than ever before.

Whether you’re returning from winter hibernation or you’ve been hitting indoor ladders all year, we’ve got something for you this spring.

🏓 Outdoor Play Is Back!

Our outdoor ladder events are in full swing at RCA Park! CourtReserve is your go-to for staying in the loop—check in regularly to register for weekly ladders, special sessions, and social play.

These events are open to players of all levels and are a great way to build skill, meet new people, and enjoy some friendly competition under the sun.

🤝 Building Together: Our New Club Committees

This spring, we launched a more structured (and sustainable!) approach to organizing club activities. Our new committees are already hard at work—and we’d love for you to be part of it.

Here’s a quick look at what’s happening behind the scenes:
- 🧱 Club Functionality – Policies, bylaws, board structure
- 📣 Communications – Emails, updates, social media
- 💰 Partnerships – Sponsorships, fundraising, community relationships
- 🎉 Networking & Social – Community-building events and outreach
- 🗓 Events – Ladders, side events, and everything in between
Whether you're a spreadsheet lover, a social butterfly, or just eager to lend a hand—we’ve got a spot for you.

🟡 Club Upgrades & Gear News

Thanks to members using our Pickleball Central code CRBLOOM, we scored a $174 credit—which went straight into 100 fresh Franklin balls for club use. (Yes, you’re literally helping us keep the ball rolling!)

We’ve also got six portable nets ready to go, stored and managed to make outdoor setups smoother. And if you’ve ever considered becoming a BPC sponsor, now’s the time—tiered banner options are coming soon to help businesses of all sizes support the club.

🙌 How You Can Get Involved

Want to run a side event? Help with a ladder night? Join a committee or lead a one-time effort? We’re here for it—and we’re here for you.

One of the best things about BPC is our community spirit, and this year we’re leaning into that more than ever. Volunteering doesn’t have to be a huge time commitment—it’s about sharing what you can, when you can, and having a little fun while you’re at it.

🔮 Looking Ahead

We’re just getting started. As the season unfolds, you’ll see more play opportunities, better organization, and more chances to connect.

If you're new to the club, welcome! And if you’ve been with us for a while—thanks for sticking with us. This is shaping up to be an incredible year for pickleball in Bloomington.

📬 Stay in the Loop

Don’t miss out! Be sure to:
- Check CourtReserve regularly for event registration
- Keep an eye on our emails and social media for updates
- Reach out if you’d like to get involved, join a committee, or pitch an idea
We’ll see you on the courts! 🏓🌤️
March 27, 2025
Support Local Pickleball at the Monroe County YMCA! 🏅
The Southeast YMCA is bringing exciting pickleball action to Bloomington, and we want you to be part of it! Several Adult Pickleball Tournaments are happening this year, and we encourage all Bloomington Pickleball Club members to participate. Whether you’re ready to compete or simply want to cheer on your fellow players, these tournaments are a great way to engage with the local pickleball community and showcase our club’s talent.

Upcoming Tournament Details: 🗓 Date: Saturday, March 29
🕒 Time: 7:00 PM
🏢 Location: Southeast YMCA

This is the first special invitational tournament of the year, and we want to make sure BPC is well-represented. Playing in tournaments is a fantastic way to sharpen your skills, meet other players, and support pickleball in Bloomington.

How to Get Involved:
- Register Now! Secure your spot in the tournament by signing up here: Register Here
- Spread the Word! Invite your pickleball friends and teammates to join in on the fun.
- Come Cheer! Even if you’re not playing, show up to support and encourage fellow players.
Let’s bring our energy and enthusiasm to the court and make this tournament a memorable one. We look forward to seeing you there!

#BloomingtonPickleball #PickleballCommunity #SupportLocalPickleball #MonroeCountyYMCA
March 12, 2025
Sign Up for BPC Indoor Ladder Events!
As the colder months approach, the Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC) is ready to keep the momentum going with indoor pickleball ladder events at The Crimson Pickle. Don’t let the weather slow down your game – join us for some friendly competition and skill development while meeting new players!
BPC Tuesday Indoor Individual Ladder

This event is perfect for individual players looking to sharpen their skills while playing with a variety of partners. Players rotate partners after each game, providing a social and dynamic experience for everyone involved.
- Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Location: The Crimson Pickle (1525 South Rogers Street, Bloomington, IN)
- Cost: $5 for BPC Members, $10 for Non-BPC Members
- Format:
  
  Grouped by skill level for balanced, competitive matches
  
  12-minute games with short breaks in between
  
  Minimum of 6 games guaranteed, with potential for more depending on time
  
  Open play until 8:55 PM if ladder games finish early
Upcoming Dates:
BPC Thursday Indoor Partner Ladder

Grab a partner and get ready for some exciting doubles competition! This ladder format focuses on teamwork as you and your partner play against other duos, all grouped by skill level for balanced matches.
- Time: 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Location: The Crimson Pickle (1525 South Rogers Street, Bloomington, IN)
- Cost: $5 for BPC Members, $10 for Non-BPC Members
- Format:
  
  Partner-based play with 12-minute games
  
  Grouped by skill level for competitive balance
  
  Minimum of 6 games, with additional open play if time permits
Upcoming Dates:
How to Register

Register for both the Tuesday Individual and Thursday Partner ladders through our BPC CourtReserve system:
- Tuesday Individual Ladder Sign-Up
- Thursday Partner Ladder Sign-Up
Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, these ladders offer a fun way to challenge yourself, meet new players, and stay active.
Explore The Crimson Pickle’s New Membership Model

In addition to our BPC indoor events, The Crimson Pickle is launching a new membership model to provide dedicated players with more access and benefits. Starting September 1, 2024, Gold Memberships offer:
- Unlimited free court time on weekdays between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM (over 80 hours/month).
- Only 200 memberships available to ensure a premium experience.
- $25/month or $200/year, with a couple’s membership available for $40/month or $320/year.
This membership could be a great option for BPC players looking to secure court time during peak indoor hours.
October 22, 2024
Strengthening Our Community Partnerships: Exciting Developments for Pickleball in Monroe County

As the sport of pickleball continues to surge in popularity, the Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC) is excited to share significant updates from our recent discussions with Monroe County Parks & Recreation. On August 29, 2024, key members of our club met with Matt Wilhoit, Recreation Director – Athletics, and John Robertson, Assistant Director at Monroe County Parks & Rec, to discuss the future of pickleball in Monroe County, including new court developments and potential collaborations that will benefit our growing community.

Expanding Pickleball Facilities at Flatwoods Park

One of the major highlights from our meeting was the discussion about the upcoming project at Flatwoods Park. Monroe County Parks & Rec is converting an existing basketball court into two or three dedicated pickleball courts, as part of a broader renovation effort that also includes restroom upgrades and other park improvements. While the target completion is late 2024, this timeline may extend into early 2025, depending on the progress of related work.

BPC is eager to collaborate with Monroe County Parks & Rec on this exciting project. We have expressed our interest in providing input on the court design and layout to ensure that the new facilities meet the needs of our expanding pickleball community. Well-designed courts will enhance the playing experience and help attract more players to this rapidly growing sport.

Addressing the Need for More Courts

During our meeting, we also addressed the increasing demand for more pickleball courts throughout Monroe County. With the sport’s popularity outpacing the availability of current facilities, BPC is exploring additional opportunities to expand our local pickleball infrastructure. Potential sites include underutilized spaces at parks like Karst Farm Park, where new pickleball venues could be developed.

One promising idea is to transform areas at Karst Farm Park, such as the space behind the splash pad, into vibrant pickleball courts. Although these discussions are in the early stages, we are enthusiastic about the possibilities and will keep our members informed as we progress.

Get Involved: Your Voice Matters

An important takeaway from our meeting was the emphasis on community involvement in Monroe County Parks & Rec’s five-year master plan. This plan is crucial for setting priorities and allocating resources for future park projects, including pickleball facilities. We strongly encourage all BPC members to participate in upcoming surveys and public forums. Your input is vital in ensuring that pickleball is recognized as a priority in Monroe County’s recreational planning. You can review the Monroe County Parks & Recreation 2023-2028 Master Plan to better understand the goals and opportunities ahead.

Partnering for Progress

In addition to our collaboration with Monroe County Parks & Rec, BPC is actively exploring opportunities to engage local businesses in sponsoring new pickleball facilities. Successful partnerships in other communities have demonstrated that local business support can play a key role in funding and developing high-quality pickleball courts. If you know of any businesses that might be interested in supporting this initiative, please reach out to us.

Stay Tuned for More Updates

We are committed to keeping our members informed about all developments related to pickleball facilities in Monroe County. Whether it’s the progress at Flatwoods Park, potential new sites, or ways you can get involved, you’ll hear it first from us. Be sure to check our website and follow us on social media for the latest news.

We’re excited about the future of pickleball in our community and look forward to working together to make Bloomington a premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts.

August 30, 2024
Enhancing Pickleball Experiences: Collaboration and Community Involvement at Bloomington Pickleball Club

The Growth of Pickleball in Bloomington

Pickleball has quickly become one of the fastest-growing sports in Bloomington, bringing together people of all ages and skill levels. At the heart of this growth is the Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC), which has been instrumental in not only promoting the sport but also in creating a vibrant, inclusive community around it. As pickleball continues to flourish, the BPC is committed to enhancing the experiences of its members and the broader community through strategic collaborations and active community involvement.

Collaborative Efforts with Local Organizations

Enthusiastic participants engage in an exciting game of pickleball during a lesson at Simtra BioPharma Solutions.

Simtra employees engage in a pickleball lesson organized by Bloomington Pickleball Club, enhancing team collaboration and fitness.

An overview of the pickleball setup at Simtra BioPharma Solutions, where employees enjoy learning the sport.

Simtra BioPharma Solutions, a partner in promoting pickleball through community events.

One of the key drivers of the BPC’s success has been its strong partnerships with local organizations. A prime example of this is our recent collaboration with Simtra, where we hosted multiple pickleball sessions for their employees. This partnership not only provided Simtra’s team with an opportunity to engage in a fun and healthy activity but also helped to introduce the sport to a wider audience.

Our ongoing collaboration with Bloomington Parks and Recreation has been equally crucial. Together, we’ve worked on various projects that have significantly improved the facilities available to pickleball enthusiasts. This includes the upcoming installation of an ongoing memorial bench at RCA Park in honor of Doug Kenfield & our beloved pickleball players. This project, coordinated with the Parks department, underscores our shared commitment to creating welcoming, well-maintained spaces for all who visit the park.

Upcoming Events and Programs

Participants enjoy competitive play during a ladder event at Bloomington Pickleball Club, showcasing the club’s vibrant community spirit.

As we look ahead, the BPC is excited to continue offering a variety of events that cater to both seasoned players and newcomers. Our Tuesday Individual Ladder and Thursday Partner Ladder events, running until October, provide regular opportunities for competitive play in a friendly, supportive environment. These events have become a staple of our programming, drawing participants from across the community and fostering a spirit of camaraderie.

We’re also thrilled to have been a part of the Grand Opening – Free Pickleball Clinic at Marci Jane Lewis Park on August 3rd. This event was a fantastic opportunity for anyone interested in learning more about the sport, and we invited everyone to join us for a day of fun, learning, and community building.

Community Involvement and Support

Dedicated volunteers from Bloomington Pickleball Club carefully prepare a court for an upcoming event

A surprise birthday celebration during a pickleball event, showcasing the warm community spirit of the Bloomington Pickleball Club.

A volunteer from the Bloomington Pickleball Club hangs sponsor banners in preparation for an event, highlighting the club’s community partnerships.

At the BPC, we believe that the strength of our club lies in the active involvement of our members. We are fortunate to have a dedicated group of volunteers who play a critical role in the success of our events. Whether it’s setting up courts, assisting with check-ins, or managing logistics, our volunteers are the backbone of our operations.

We also recognize the importance of advocacy and public support for the continued growth of pickleball in Bloomington. That’s why we’re encouraging our members to attend the upcoming public board meeting to express their gratitude to the city and support funding for further improvements at RCA Park. Public engagement is key to ensuring that our facilities continue to meet the needs of our growing community.

Spotlight on Member Engagement

Our members are at the heart of everything we do, and their engagement is what makes our club thrive. Recent events, such as the sessions with Simtra and our ladder events, have generated positive feedback from participants, highlighting the benefits of being an active member of the BPC. These events not only provide valuable playing experience but also create lasting connections among members.

To keep our community informed and engaged, we utilize various communication channels, including Slack and email updates. These tools allow us to stay connected, share important information, and ensure that our members are always in the loop about upcoming events and opportunities.

Conclusion: The Future of Pickleball in Bloomington

As we look to the future, the BPC remains committed to enhancing the pickleball experience for everyone in Bloomington. We have exciting plans in the pipeline, including further facility improvements and additional programming that will continue to make pickleball accessible and enjoyable for all.

We invite all members of the Bloomington community to join us on this journey. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious about the sport, the Bloomington Pickleball Club offers something for everyone. Together, we can continue to grow this vibrant community and make Bloomington a hub for pickleball excellence.

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to seeing you on the courts!

August 30, 2024
Successful Grand Opening of Ellettsville’s First Pickleball Court
The Bloomington Pickleball Club celebrated the grand opening of Ellettsville’s first pickleball court at Marci Jane Lewis Park with great success!

The event kicked off at 9 AM with enthusiastic participants eager to learn and play. Special thanks to Gary Milhoan, Barb Milhoan, and Judy Henry, who dedicated their time to teaching pickleball to a diverse group of attendees. Their expertise and passion for the sport were evident and greatly appreciated by all who attended.

Rick Plunkett, Ellettsville Sports Coordinator, deserves a round of applause for his incredible work in getting the court set up. With a very reasonable budget of less than $3000, Rick has provided the community with a fantastic new facility that will undoubtedly be a hub for local pickleball enthusiasts.

Highlights of the Event:
- Comprehensive rules explanation and demonstration
- Engaging games and activities for participants of all skill levels
- Exciting door prizes for attendees
Participants enjoy a game of pickleball under the pavilion at the Ellettsville event, showcasing the newly set up courts.

Door prizes, including pickleball items and gift certificates, are displayed on a table at the Ellettsville pickleball event, adding excitement and fun for participants.

Spectators enjoy watching a pickleball match from the benches under the pavilion at the Ellettsville event, showing community support and interest in the new courts.

Participants gather for a group photo on the newly set up pickleball courts during the Ellettsville event, celebrating the community’s new sports facility.

We are thrilled with the turnout and the positive response from the community. The new court at Marci Jane Lewis Park promises to be a great asset for Ellettsville, fostering more local interest and participation in pickleball.

Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this event a success, especially the Bloomington Pickleball Club volunteers and the Ellettsville community. We look forward to many more events and games on this excellent new court!
August 3, 2024
Grand Opening of Ellettsville’s First Pickleball Court at Marci Jane Lewis Park
We are thrilled to announce the grand opening of Ellettsville’s very first pickleball court at Marci Jane Lewis Park!

The Town of Ellettsville has successfully constructed a brand-new pickleball court, providing a fantastic new venue for pickleball enthusiasts in the community. This exciting development is located at Marci Jane Lewis Park, 200 S. Park Street.

Grand Opening Event Details:
- Date: Saturday, August 3, 2024
- Start Time: 9:00 AM
- Location: New Outdoor Pickleball Court under Shelter in Marci Jane Lewis Park
Join us for a special event that includes:
- An explanation of the rules of pickleball
- A demonstration game
- Door prizes
This event is organized by the Bloomington Pickleball Club, which is dedicated to promoting the sport and engaging with the community. Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the game, this event promises to be both educational and fun.

We look forward to seeing you there and celebrating this exciting addition to Ellettsville’s recreational facilities. Don’t forget to bring your friends and family for a morning of pickleball fun!
July 31, 2024
Celebrating Our Journey: BPC’s Feature in Pickleball Club Magazine

We’re excited to announce that the Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC) has been spotlighted in the renowned Pickleball Club Magazine. This feature is a testament to our collective commitment to enhancing pickleball’s presence in our community, showcasing the importance of civic engagement and partnership in promoting health, fitness, and social connection through the sport.

Our journey has been propelled by the unwavering dedication of our board members and the enthusiastic participation of every club member. Together, we’ve embarked on initiatives that deeply integrate pickleball into our community’s lifestyle, demonstrating that our engagement goes beyond the sport—it builds a thriving, interconnected community.

Our collaboration with the Bloomington Parks and Recreation Department, aimed at converting tennis courts into dedicated pickleball courts, is a prime example of our proactive approach to improving community sports facilities.

The feature in Pickleball Club Magazine reflects our dedication to civic engagement and its positive impact on our community. It reinforces our commitment to ensuring that pickleball is accessible to everyone, using the sport as a vehicle for community well-being, and establishing strong partnerships to extend our reach and amplify our impact.

Looking forward, we are excited about exploring innovative solutions to promote pickleball further, including public-private ventures and enhancing our online presence. Our goal is not just to expand pickleball access and resources for our members but to also enrich the local sports landscape.

An Invitation to Join Our Journey

We encourage you to read the full article on the Pickleball Club Magazine’s website and celebrate this significant milestone with us. Let’s continue to collaborate, engage, and expand our community through pickleball, embracing participation from diverse backgrounds and skill levels.

A heartfelt thank you to every member of the BPC community. Your passion and engagement are the driving forces behind our success. Together, we are fostering a legacy of health, wellness, and community through the sport we passionately support.

March 14, 2024