By Janelle Davis Winter in Syracuse doesn’t stop local pickleball enthusiasts anymore. Since July 15, 2024, Syracuse Indoor Pickleball has given players a place to enjoy their favorite sport no matter what’s happening outside. “We opened because my partners and I play in the pickleball world, and we just never had an indoor place to play with regularity,” says Josh Pinard, managing partner. “The game was kind of stagnant in our area compared to other areas like Buffalo and Rochester.” Pinard and his partners spotted this gap in 2023 and decided to do something about it. They partnered to create a dedicated space where pickleball players wouldn’t have to worry about rain, cold, or wind. The community response has been enthusiastic. “We actually have a huge community, people who were pickle ballers beforehand, who were playing outside, who knew they were looking where they could play for the winter,” Cathy Welch, director of corporate events, said. While serving experienced players, Welch emphasizes their broader mission. “Our goal is to reach out to new folks, because that’s how we grow, and that’s how people find community and ways to play as an adult,” she said. The facility makes access easy with flexible options. Members can book courts through the Court Reserve app and play anytime between 5 a.m. and 10 p.m. Non-members can rent courts for $40 an hour, which works out to just $10 per person for a foursome. Why has pickleball caught on so quickly? Pinard believes it’s partly social and partly the health benefits. “People want a low-impact fun activity that they don’t feel like they’re working out,” he said. “Pickleball is like, ‘Oh, I’m going to play with my friends.’ But in the meantime, they’re actually getting a really good workout.” The facility recently hosted its first Red, White, and Rally Military Appreciation tournament, drawing over 160 players and raising $10,000 for charity over three days. The success has them planning to make it an annual event. For newcomers, Syracuse Indoor Pickleball offers a range of affordable options to get started. “We have opportunities to teach that are affordable with our clinics, with our lessons, with open play,” Pinard said. “For that person that’s interested in finding a community of support and people to play with and learn and do something new—it’s like that thing of belonging. That’s what pickleball provides.” This sense of belonging is central to the facility’s mission. Welch adds, “There are just so many great benefits to it. We want to share our message.” The welcoming atmosphere is something Pinard takes particular pride in. “When people come there, they don’t feel excluded,” he said. “Everybody talks to everybody. Everybody wants to make you feel welcome. It’s a social game, and that’s what I really enjoy.” Whether looking to improve skills through structured lessons, stay active year-round, or just meet new people, Syracuse Indoor Pickleball has created a space where the community can connect through sport – rain, snow, or shine. Syracuse Indoor Pickleball is located at 7439 Canton Street Road in Baldwinsville. To learn more about membership options, court reservations, or upcoming clinics and events, visit syracuseindoorpickleball.com or call, 315-234-1944. ...read more read less