Picklr aims to upgrade Huntsville pickleball scene
Add Axios as your preferred source to
see more of our stories on Google.

The Picklr is set to open in December, less than a year after this Birmingham location. Photo: Courtesy The Picklr
The world's largest indoor pickleball franchise is making Huntsville its next stop.
Why it matters: As pickleball continues its rise in popularity, The Picklr is creating more space for players, especially those looking to up their game.
Catch up quick: The Picklr is opening a 40,000-square-foot facility in December at the former Home Depot site at 6123 University Drive, offering 11 courts, seven of which are championship-size.
- It's the chain's second Alabama location, following the March opening of The Picklr's Birmingham location, co-owner Patrick Denney tells Axios Huntsville.
- It will also have a large event space, full pro shop providing access to early product releases via Pickleball Central, he adds, and high-end food and beverage on-site.
What they're saying: "Huntsville's a natural progression in the state, obviously, with its high growth," Denney said.
- The Huntsville location will also offer a larger event space than Birmingham, geared toward corporate and large events booked months in advance, something he expects to be popular.

It's not the first membership-based pickleball club in Huntsville, but Denney says what sets it apart is its programming and focus on helping players improve their DUPR, or dynamic universal pickleball rating.
- "We're different because we're on the competitive side," he said. "And if you don't want to become a pro, we have programs where you can come in and play with your friends. We don't want anyone to be intimidated."
- The gated courts will all have a TV and proprietary surfacing, connected via a pathway with seating.
Zoom out: Denney, 56 and a player himself, has watched the sport grow in recent years, especially after a surge in interest stemming from the pandemic.
- The facility is set to be open seven days a week, roughly 6am to midnight, and will be "a hub for leagues, tournaments, clinics, lessons," he said.
- Rates haven't been set yet but will also be similar to the Birmingham location's $125 per month following an initial $30 for a 30-day trial.
- The Picklr also offers a couples rate, college rate, social member rate and other options, Denney said.
The bottom line: "We're just excited about Huntsville," Denney said. "It's an amazing city, the Rocket City. We hope to be very much a part of the fabric and the community."
