Lights, Camera, Pickleball: The Grand Opening of Bartlett’s Premier Indoor Facility!
Step into the world of pickleball like never before! The Mid-South’s first dedicated indoor pickleball facility has officially opened its doors in Bartlett, and it’s bringing a whole new level of excitement to the game. Located at 2809 Bartlett Boulevard, this innovative space is nestled within what was once the iconic Malco Bartlett Cinema for over three decades.
To celebrate its grand opening, Bluff City Pickleball hosted a special event on Saturday, March 23rd, drawing in enthusiasts from all over. But this isn’t just any ordinary pickleball facility – it’s a dream brought to life by John and Leslie Daniel, who poured over $500,000 into the project themselves.
For the Daniels, promoting wellness is more than just a passion – it’s a purpose. With Leslie’s triumph over breast cancer and John’s journey as a heart transplant recipient, they understand the value of every moment. And what better way to make the most of life than by creating a vibrant hub for community engagement and healthy living?
The vision for this pickleball paradise was inspired by John’s year-long fellowship at Harvard in 2022, where he delved into the intricacies of building social enterprises. Now, the former movie theater has been transformed into a 27,000-square-foot haven for pickleball enthusiasts of all levels.
Each of the eight pickleball courts pays homage to cinema classics like “Top Gun,” “Star Wars,” “Rocky,” and “Black Panther,” adding a touch of nostalgia to the playing experience. And with amenities like a practice court, exercise studio, and a mezzanine offering a bird’s-eye view of the action, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
But the Daniels aren’t just focused on pickleball – they’re committed to fostering a diverse community of wellness enthusiasts. They envision the facility as a space for various activities, from dance and yoga to corporate events and birthday parties. Plus, with monthly and annual memberships, league play, tournaments, lessons, and fundraising events on the agenda, there’s no shortage of excitement in store.
To top it all off, Bluff City Pickleball is partnering with Picklemania, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering children in under-resourced communities. Through their “Pickleball with Purpose” curriculum, they’re using the sport to teach social and emotional skills, making a positive impact one game at a time.