First-Ever Indoor Pickleball Facility Coming Soon To DC Area

CHANTILLY, VA — Pickleballerz, a locally owned company, began demolition of the interior of a building in Chantilly on Monday that it plans to convert into the D.C. region's first-ever dedicated six-court, indoor pickleball facility. Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country, with more than 3.1 million players, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association 2018 Pickleball Participant Report.

The almost 20,000-square-foot space, once construction is finished, will feature USA Pickleball Association-preferred indoor pickleball courts. The type of courts, the same used at the Australian Open tennis tournament, are designed to ensure superior traction and game play while being less stressful on players' knees and other joints, according to the company.

"We couldn't be happier to pick Chantilly as Pickleballerz' first location in northern Virginia and we are so excited to begin our buildout," Pickleballerz co-owner Beverly Raelson said in a statement.

The USA Pickleball Association has reported that the number of pickleball players has grown more than 650 percent over the last six years.

Pickleball is a mix between tennis, racquetball and ping pong. Players use special paddles and a wiffle ball, and games take place on tennis-like courts with specific pickleball lines. Nets and court sizes are smaller than tennis courts, and the most common game is doubles, although singles games are also played.

Pickleballerz's facility, which is scheduled to open this spring, will offer members and non-members an assortment of activities, including drop-in play, competitive and recreational pickleball leagues, instructional classes, adult and children's clinics, tournaments, socials, hosting parties and events.

Pickleballerz also will be offering a limited number of Charter Ballerz VIP memberships during its pre-opening phase. Charter Ballerz members will receive a special membership rate and perks not available to other customers.

Pickleballerz also is hiring for a variety of positions, including management/programming, pro staff and hospitality/front desk reception.

The new Pickleballerz facility will be located at 14424 Albemarle Point Place in Chantilly.