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Category: Partnerships

  • 🎉 Big Win for BPC: Official Selkirk Sponsorship Announced!

    🎉 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?

    Top-down view of a cardboard box filled with assorted Selkirk pickleball paddles, arranged with handles facing up, showcasing different models and grip colors

    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 takes a selfie at a busy pickleball court with players warming up and chatting during a Selkirk-sponsored training session
    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!

  • 🌟 Why You Should Join Us at PickleCon 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! 💥🏓

  • Support Local Pickleball at the Monroe County YMCA! 🏅

    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

  • Strengthening Our Community Partnerships: Exciting Developments for Pickleball in Monroe County

    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.

  • Enhancing Pickleball Experiences: Collaboration and Community Involvement at Bloomington Pickleball Club

    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

    A man in a pink shirt and a woman playing pickleball during a lesson at Simtra BioPharma Solutions.
    Enthusiastic participants engage in an exciting game of pickleball during a lesson at Simtra BioPharma Solutions.
    A group of people, including a woman in a BPC shirt, playing 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 courts set up at Simtra BioPharma Solutions, with employees participating in the game.
    An overview of the pickleball setup at Simtra BioPharma Solutions, where employees enjoy learning the sport.
    The Simtra BioPharma Solutions building with flags in front, under a clear blue sky.
    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

    Players engaged in a pickleball game during a ladder event, with sunlight streaming onto the courts at Bloomington Pickleball Club.
    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

    Two volunteers working together to line a pickleball court with tape, preparing it for an event.
    Dedicated volunteers from Bloomington Pickleball Club carefully prepare a court for an upcoming event
    A group of people celebrating a birthday at a pickleball event, with the birthday person holding a small pickleball-themed gift.
    A surprise birthday celebration during a pickleball event, showcasing the warm community spirit of the Bloomington Pickleball Club.
    A volunteer on a ladder hanging sponsor banners along a pickleball court fence
    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!

  • Sam Hutner: Leading the Charge in IU’s Pickleball Scene

    Sam Hutner: Leading the Charge in IU’s Pickleball Scene

    In a candid interview with Sam Hutner, the president and co-founder of Pickleball at IU, we explore his transition from tennis to leading a top-ranked pickleball team. His journey highlights the growth and community spirit of pickleball, a sport that thrives on inclusivity and fun.

    Tennis Roots in Pickleball Play

    Sam’s tennis background adds a unique flavor to his pickleball strategy, often bringing in baseline plays and powerful ground shots. These quirks, along with his teammates’ playful reminders, exemplify the friendly and adaptive nature of pickleball.

    A Vision for Community and Competition

    With advisor Timber Tucker, Sam is expanding IU’s pickleball reach. Their plan focuses on making pickleball accessible to all students, featuring larger play sessions, special events, and maintaining a strong competitive team. Their efforts have led to an impressive team of diverse talents, ready to showcase their skills at the upcoming National Championship.

    Looking Forward to Nationals

    The club’s evolution from a small group to a community of over 500 members is a source of pride for Sam. As they head to the National Championship, the team is grateful for the support from the Bloomington Pickleball Club and is excited to represent IU on the national stage.

    Sam Hutner and Mehvish Safdar, Bloomington Pickleball Club members, stand with their partners holding a Nationals Bid Winner banner and a $2,000 check at a Life Time Pickleball event. The group smiles in front of a branded backdrop on an indoor court.

    Interview with Sam Hutner

    Q: Can you share more about your journey from being a tennis player to becoming the president and co-founder of Pickleball at IU?
    “My buddies and I founded Pickleball at IU to find new people to play with. We had no real intentions of making it as big as it is today. However, it grew and grew. Through managing the club, we’ve gained valuable leadership experience that would have been hard to find elsewhere.

    We’ve also made so many awesome connections with both other students and members of the Bloomington community, like you all. Some of the closest relationships I’ve made in my three years at IU have been catalyzed by pickleball.”

    Q: How did your personal experience with pickleball shape the formation of the team?
    “I think the best quality about pickleball is its ability to connect people. It brought my high school friends and me closer together and has allowed me to create so many awesome new friendships with such a myriad of people. So, I naturally gravitated towards pursuing a team that embodies this.”

    Q: How are you and Timber Tucker planning to grow the program, especially with the development team of 32 players next semester?
    “We are pursuing a twofold approach to shape the future of IU pickleball.

    The ultimate goal is to provide a fun and convenient way to play pickleball. After all, the best part about pickleball is that it’s so low-barrier that anyone can play with anyone. To do this, we are working with both IU and other Bloomington leaders to get court space both on campus and indoors. The plan is to provide all students a weekly larger play session and multiple monthly special events like tournaments, networking nights, and social mixers. This will all start this January!

    Another goal is to have a strong competitive team. Currently, we fluctuate between the 8th and 9th overall rankings in the country. As of now, we are looking to create a team of around 32 students, ideally 16 men and 16 women. We currently have 9 on the team, including Mehv, Carter, Thea, and myself, along with the new members I shout out later. We will be practicing Monday and Wednesday nights from 8-10 PM throughout the semester at The Crimson Pickle.”

    Q: What are your thoughts on the upcoming National Championship, and how is the team preparing for it?
    “It’s surreal to think that three years ago the club had 20 people. Now, we have over 500 members and are sending a top-ten ranked team to nationals. Since I was a kid, I dreamed of being an IU athlete. It’s amazing to see how life plays out. I’m blessed to be in this situation.

    We’ve been having 2-3 weekly practices in preparation for the championship. We added some awesome new players—shoutout to Connor, David, Jaden, Merin, and Michael. We’re excited to see how it all goes down.

    Thank you to all the members of the Bloomington Pickleball Club who’ve been cheering us on. It really means the world to the whole team and me. We hope to make you proud this weekend!”

    A live pickleball match featuring IU Pickleball team members Carter and Sam. Carter, in a red and white striped shirt, prepares to return a serve while Sam stands ready at the net. The match is held in an indoor facility with green and blue courts and spectators in the background.

    Good Luck, Hoosiers!

    Watch the team play live:
    DUPR Pickleball National Championships pool play begins Friday, 11/17.

    Stream Live from The Crimson Pickle YouTube Channel:
    https://www.youtube.com/@TheCrimsonPickle/streams

    Friday Matches:

    • 10:00 AM: IU vs. Auburn
    • 1:00 PM: IU vs. Georgia
    • 4:00 PM: IU vs. Florida

    Saturday Matches:

    • 8:00 AM: IU vs. Mississippi State
    • 11:00 AM: IU vs. Utah Valley
  • BPC & IU Pickleball: The Journey Towards Building a Championship Team

    BPC & IU Pickleball: The Journey Towards Building a Championship Team

    We’re delighted to present to you two insightful interviews from the Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC). These interviews offer a unique perspective on the sport of Pickleball and its growing prominence at the collegiate level.

    Our first interview is with Carter Wittendorf, a nationally-ranked pickleball player and a major contributor to the team’s success. Carter shares his thoughts on the National Championship, balancing academics with pickleball, and the vital role of team chemistry.

    Our second interview is with Timber Tucker, the chair of the competition and training committee at BPC. Timber’s involvement with IU’s Pickleball team began due to a conflict around public court usage. He discusses the current team’s dynamics, his contribution to the team’s preparation for the National Championship, and the future of Pickleball at IU with the establishment of a development team next semester. He also shares his thoughts on the challenges and plans in getting pickleball recognized as an official club sport at IU.

    We hope these interviews provide you with a deeper understanding of the sport and the dedication, hard work, and camaraderie that goes into building a successful team.

    Enjoy reading!

    Best,

    Dave Martin

    BPC Interview Questions For Carter Wittendorf

    As a nationally-ranked pickleball player at such a young age, what are your expectations going into the National Championship?
    “Things like rankings and ratings can really only tell you so much about players, and I would never create expectations solely off those. At the regional event our team attended, we saw plenty of players with no ratings whatsoever who were fantastic! The collegiate league is filled with a lot of talent and tough competition. Even so, our team has been putting in a lot of work, and I believe it’s setting us up to make some waves at nationals!”

    How do you manage your time between academics and your commitment to the team?
    “For me, it really comes down to creating chunks of time each day for both school and the team. Typically, I try to complete most of my work during the day so my nights are free for practice. Right now, we have team practices on Monday and Wednesday nights, which focus on drilling, working on technique, and employing new strategies. We also play other nights of the week to ensure we’re getting enough actual play-time in.”

    Can you share your thoughts on how the team’s chemistry has contributed to its success?
    “Good chemistry amongst the team is essential to success. Having positive relationships not only lightens the mood during practices and recreational play but also helps the team dig out of tough spots during matches. Sometimes all it takes to come back from a deficit is a little encouragement, and I think we’ve created a fun and supportive environment that does this well.”

    BPC Interview Questions for Timber Tucker

    As the chair of the Competition and Training Committee, how did your involvement with IU’s pickleball team begin?
    “There was some conflict around public court usage at RCA Park. Bloomington and IU face similar issues with a lack of court space. On weekends, IU students often come to RCA to play, putting more pressure on the courts. I was asked to work with them to find ways we could all coexist.”

    What are your thoughts on the current team’s dynamics and performance?
    “Well, we’re undefeated in seven matches, so it’s hard to complain! We’ve been fortunate to have a few really talented players, but now it’s about building depth in the program. That work starts in the spring semester with the launch of our developmental program.”

    How are you contributing to the team’s preparation for the National Championship?
    “They’re kind enough to call me ‘coach,’ but that’s not entirely accurate. My role is more about organization. There are lots of moving parts, and my job is to help guide them through that. Mostly, I make sure they have clean uniforms and stay hydrated!”

    How do you see the future of pickleball at IU, especially with the establishment of a development team next semester?
    “We’re dreaming big and trying to do something special here. There are over 600 students in the club right now. Most of them won’t play in the developmental program—they just want to play for fun, socialize, and unwind. Pickleball has exploded post-pandemic because it’s a great way to stay active and meet new friends.

    At the same time, our travel teams will bring attention to the sport on campus. My dream is to build a winning program that leads the Big Ten and beyond while having a lot of fun along the way.”

    What challenges do you foresee in getting pickleball recognized as an official club sport at IU, and how are you planning to overcome them?
    “IU has been great in helping us navigate the process. It won’t be long before we’re a full club sport. That comes with some nice perks, but we’ll just keep doing what we’re doing to grow the sport on campus.”

    Support the Team!

    We’re still raising funds for the National Championship and upcoming spring events. Please donate using the button below to help send the IU Pickleball team to the National Championships!

    Donate Now