Fenway Park To Host A Pickleball Tournament
The fastest growing sport in America is coming to one of the most iconic ballparks in America. On July 13-16, Fenway Park will host a pickleball tournament featuring professional and…
The fastest growing sport in America is coming to one of the most iconic ballparks in America. On July 13-16, Fenway Park will host a pickleball tournament featuring professional and amateur tournaments.
"Pickleball at Fenway Park is in collaboration with Pickleball4America (Pickle4), a newly formed organization partnered with the US Open Pickleball Championships focused on developing America's fastest growing sport," the Red Sox press release explains. The tournament will also pair with Oracle Park in San Francisco and Coors Field in Denver. Fenway Park is the first of three ballparks participating in a Pickleball collaboration series.
Twelve temporary courts will be set up in the Fenway outfield over the four-day period. This includes three courts in center field, three in right field, and three along the right field foul line. In addition, there will be three courts against the infamous green monster left field wall.
In addition, there will be open play for fans. "Court times will be available for rent in 80-minute increments for up to 10 people. All skill levels are welcome," the Red Sox site explains.
What Else?
There will be live music throughout the tournament days. Various Fenway Park concessions will be open to purchase food and drinks as well.
If you're looking to play Pickleball at Fenway, you have two options. Fans who want to play for fun are asked to register for court rentals in advance to purchase time. You must register if you are an amateur player and want to explore joining the tournament. The amateur tournament will be open to men, women, and mixed doubles. It includes a variety of ages and skill levels.
Fenway 2023
The Red Sox will be in Chicago for a three-game series vs. the Cubs during this time. It's the first time Boston will return to Wrigley Field since 2012.
Fenway Park serves to be a busy place this year. In addition to hosting Pickleball at Fenway Park, there will also be 11 major concerts (8 different artists). The impressive lineup includes Kane Brown, P!NK, and Morgan Wallen. Of course, this is all on top of 81 home Red Sox games.
Five Great Places To Play Pickleball in Massachusetts
The fastest-growing sport in America has made its mark on New England. There are now a few exciting new places to play Pickleball in Massachusetts. Perhaps you have noticed your local athletic center turning part of their basketball gym into a Pickleball court. Even Lebron James is onboard, buying into a major league team in late 2022.
Though the sport has been around since 1965, it's more recently gained popularity here in New England. Whether you are looking to learn the game, play competitively or swing a paddle while sipping a beer, Massachusetts now has options to meet your Pickleball curiosity.
Here are five unique Pickleball experiences in the region:
5. Pickles - Hanover, MA
This south shore location is open seven days a week. Founded by Pickleball enthusiasts, Lisa DeMeritt and Wanda Melampy, Pickles has every interest covered. The facility offers six climate controlled indoor tournament-sized courts, two indoor practice courts, four outdoor courts, a player’s lounge, a viewing deck and a kitchen that serves food, drinks, and a variety of beverages - including beer, wine and malt liquors.
In terms of play, there’s everything from drop-in options to scheduling lesions with professionals. If you're apprehensive about playing the sport and just want to rock the hippest pickleball gear, you can find that here as well. Most of all, this establishment claimed the best name.
www.picklesne.com
4. Southcoast Pickleball - Fairhaven, MA
22,000 square feet of Pickleball fun greets you at Southcoast Pickleball. This spacious facility offers seven full courts. They offer clinics for everyone from first-timers to advanced players. If you’re looking for a unique team-building event, there’s also the option to hold your own private event here.
3. Dennis Pickleball - South Dennis, MA
This has summer fun written all over it. Wixon courts provides 14 perfectly lined outdoor courts. By becoming a member of Dennis Pickleball, you have full access to this facility, as it is reserved for members only from May 10th to October 15th. Through the town of Dennis recreation you are able to not only become part of the group of players but an entire “friends of Dennis Pickleball” community. This a non-profit organization working with the Town of Dennis, to rebuild courts and upkeep the properties. Sign up, grab a paddle and make an impact!
www.dennispickleball.org
2. Newburyport Tennis Club, Newburyport, MA
Don’t be fooled by the name! Three outdoor “Pickleball Only” courts joined the Newburyport Tennis club family in late 2021, and construction on a new fourth court has begun. There are also four indoor courts available on weekend evenings. There are a wide array of fun options available to learn the game here like, “Dril N’ Play” clinics that are set up by level. To meet the demand of this growing sport, NTC has launched social accounts specific to just their pickleball activity.
www.newburyporttennisclub.com
1. PKL - South Boston, MA
Perhaps the most unique pickleball experience in the area, PKL has a major wow factor. From its modern pink and teal branding to its engaging space monkey logo, PKL is a pickleball party. They offer leagues for both “wanna-be’s” and “try-hards” in addition to giving you the option to play cornhole or shuffle board.
PKL offers a wide array of delicious food items in an area offset from the courts. In addition, the menu includes an eclectic drink offering. How about a Fiona Apple Cider? Or - enjoying a Scary Spice Sangria after your match. If you're looking for complete pickleball social experience, PKL in southie is the place to be.
