Tag: Bloomington Pickleball Club

  • 🎉 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?

    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

    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! 💥🏓

  • 🌱 Spring Forward: New Committees, Fresh Courts & What’s Next for BPC

    🌱 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:

    We’ll see you on the courts! 🏓🌤️

  • 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

  • A Year in Review: Bloomington Pickleball Club’s Growth, Accomplishments, and Future Plans

    A Year in Review: Bloomington Pickleball Club’s Growth, Accomplishments, and Future Plans

    The Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC) has had an incredible year of growth, community engagement, and strategic planning. As we close out the year, let’s take a look back at the key events, accomplishments, and decisions that have shaped the club’s success, as well as what lies ahead.


    Key Events and Milestones

    January – April 2024

    • Renewed the club’s general liability insurance policy.
    • Began the transition from Wild Apricot to CourtReserve for membership and event management.
    • Initiated discussions to revise the club’s bylaws to reflect the needs of its growing membership.

    May 2024

    • Signed an agreement with Bloomington Parks & Recreation and installed yard signs at RCA Park.
    • Secured sponsorships from Shine, Simtra, and gift cards from Pizza X, Soma, & Village Deli.
    • Launched ladder events at RCA Park.
    • Dave Martin, Chair of the Board, became AED and CPR certified.

    June 2024

    • Transitioned fully to CourtReserve for membership and event coordination.
    • Financial reserves increased to $10,300, supporting key initiatives like court improvements and the Doug Kenfield memorial bench.

    Summer 2024

    • Ladder events averaged 21 participants, with revenue close to surpassing the prior year’s total.
    • Addressed challenges with walk-up players attempting to join events without prior registration.

    September 2024

    • Added new board members: Susan Cooper, Jodee Smith, Matt Slatkin, Brent Litzer, and Bob Costello.
    • Ended the partnership with The Crimson Pickle and began running events independently through CourtReserve.
    • Membership grew to 100 Premium, 18 Student, and 90 Community (Free) members.

    November – December 2024

    • Established a Finance Committee chaired by Kyle Parker to enhance financial oversight.
    • Approved continued ladder events through winter at The Crimson Pickle with increased fees to ensure financial sustainability.
    • Dave Martin announced his intention to step down as Chair of the Board at the end of 2024.

    Key Accomplishments in 2024

    1. Membership Growth:
      • Membership increased across all tiers, reaching 100 premium members.
    2. Financial Health:
      • Despite challenges, the club maintained a strong financial position, with sponsorships and strategic event planning boosting revenue.
    3. Community Engagement:
      • Participated in local events like the 50+ Expo and Get Outdoors Day, strengthening ties with the community.
    4. Event Success:
      • Successfully organized ladder events, community gatherings, and social mixers to foster camaraderie and grow the sport.
    5. Partnerships:
      • Built strong relationships with Bloomington Parks & Recreation, Monroe County Parks & Rec, and local businesses like One World Enterprises.
    6. Infrastructure Improvements:
      • Advocated for better court conditions and installed a memorial bench honoring Doug Kenfield.

    Looking Ahead: Challenges and Future Plans

    As the Bloomington Pickleball Club gears up for 2025, several action items and opportunities lie ahead:

    1. Strategic Planning:
      • A strategic planning session is scheduled for January 22, 2025, at the Monroe County Public Library. Members are encouraged to share their input through a pre-meeting survey.
    2. Membership Structure:
      • The board is exploring new membership tiers and benefits, including family plans, automated renewals, and exclusive events.
    3. Financial Sustainability:
      • Efforts are underway to resolve financial losses from ladder events, with plans to introduce prepaid passes and adjust event fees.
    4. Volunteer Development:
      • Clear guidelines for volunteers will be developed to ensure smooth event operations.
    5. Facility Enhancements:
      • The club remains committed to improving court conditions and advocating for additional pickleball facilities in Bloomington.

    Thank You for an Amazing Year!

    The Bloomington Pickleball Club’s success wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our members, volunteers, and partners. Thank you for making 2024 a year to remember!

    As we plan for the future, your involvement is more important than ever. Join us at the upcoming strategic planning session or share your ideas to help shape the next chapter of our journey.

    Let’s continue to grow the sport of pickleball and strengthen our community together in 2025!

  • Sign Up for BPC Indoor Ladder Events!

    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:

    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

    The Crimson Pickle

    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.

  • 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.

  • BPC Members Shine at the First-Ever PickleCon

    BPC Members Shine at the First-Ever PickleCon

    Pickleball enthusiasts from all over the country gathered in Kansas City, Missouri, for the inaugural PickleCon event, and our very own Bloomington Pickleball Club (BPC) members were right in the mix, representing Bloomington with pride! Heather Kinderthain, Dave Martin, and Timber Tucker all had incredible experiences at this groundbreaking event.

    Heather Kinderthain’s Weekend to Remember

    Heather attended the event with her close friend Kate Grossman Staltari, and it turned out to be a weekend full of fun, competition, and unforgettable memories. From the moment Heather and Kate arrived at PickleCon, they were surrounded by like-minded pickleball lovers. The event was a vibrant celebration of the sport, featuring everything from tournaments to glow-in-the-dark games, and even a variety of vendor booths offering the latest in pickleball gear.

    One of the highlights of Heather’s weekend was participating in the women’s 3.0 tournament, where she and her partner put up a stellar performance and secured 2nd place! The excitement of standing on the podium with their paddles held high was a moment Heather won’t soon forget.

    When they weren’t on the courts, Heather and Kate explored Kansas City in style. They visited three different restaurants, each featuring pickleball courts, allowing them to indulge in delicious food while playing their favorite sport. They even took the opportunity to ride Bird scooters around the city, adding a bit of adventure to their trip.

    The glow-in-the-dark tournament was another unique experience, where the courts were lit up in neon colors, creating a fun and vibrant atmosphere that only added to the thrill of the game.

    Heather mentioned how wonderful it was to meet so many new people who shared her passion for pickleball. The event was not just about competition but also about community and connection. Heather’s Facebook post reflected her joy in being able to share these moments with her oldest and dearest friend, making the event even more special.

    As Heather reflects on her time at PickleCon, she’s already looking forward to next year’s event. The excitement, camaraderie, and pure joy of being surrounded by fellow pickleball lovers have left a lasting impression on her.

    Dave Martin’s PickleCon Highlights

    In addition to Heather’s success, Dave Martin also had a fantastic time at PickleCon. Dave won a social media contest from Pickleball Club Magazine, earning two Player Passes to PickleCon. Upon request, they graciously added a third pass, allowing Dave to attend with his son—an active-duty Army member stationed at Ft. Riley, Kansas—and his wife Haylee.

    The weekend turned out to be a winning one for the Martin family. Haylee won not one, but two Selkirk paddles, each valued at $249.99, along with Selkirk Dry Fit hats for all three of them. Beyond the prizes, Dave had the opportunity to network with key figures in the pickleball community, including Susan Swern from Pickleball for Good Fund, Troy Aikan from EcoSports, and Bethany Owens from CourtReserve, the platform that our club has recently transitioned to.

    Dave’s experience at PickleCon wasn’t just about enjoying the event; it was also a chance to build connections and bring back valuable insights and contacts that could benefit the Bloomington Pickleball Club.

    Timber Tucker’s Role at PickleCon

    Another highlight for the BPC was Timber Tucker’s participation in the college pickleball panel at PickleCon. Timber was honored to be part of this discussion, where he had the opportunity to represent his new Six Zero Pickleball Ruby Paddle. Timber shared that he learned a great deal from the other panelists and was proud to represent our club in such a meaningful way.

    Looking Ahead to Next Year

    Heather, Dave, and Timber’s experiences at PickleCon are testaments to the vibrant and welcoming community that pickleball creates. We’re proud to have members like them representing the Bloomington Pickleball Club on such a grand stage. Congratulations on all your successes! We can’t wait to see what the future holds for you all and for our entire club.

  • Successful Grand Opening of Ellettsville’s First Pickleball Court

    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, addressing a group at a pickleball event under a pavilion.
    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

    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!

  • Grand Opening of Ellettsville’s First Pickleball Court at Marci Jane Lewis Park

    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!