Pickleball Players in Lakewood Ranch Search for Courts Closer to Home

by Adam Miller

Pickleball Players in Lakewood Ranch Search for Courts Closer to Home

The vibrant pickleball community in Lakewood Ranch faced an unexpected challenge in late 2024 with the closure of The Pickleball Club on Sarasota Center Boulevard. This facility, which opened in May 2023, was a hub for indoor pickleball enthusiasts, offering 12 championship-grade courts and upscale amenities. Its sudden shutdown left many players, including charter member Mike Burzminski, searching for new venues to continue their passion.

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In response to this void, the community has explored alternative options. Outdoor courts at Lakewood Ranch Park have become a popular choice. The park underwent a $250,000 renovation in August 2024, expanding from five to six new asphalt courts equipped with a hitting wall, shade structures, seating areas, water bottle fillers, lights, and additional parking. These enhancements have made it a favored spot, especially during peak seasons when attendance can reach up to 60 players on a single morning.

For those preferring indoor play, Dill Dinkers has emerged as a notable alternative. Opened in mid-January 2025 at 500 Tallevast Road, Suite 110, Sarasota, this facility offers 11 indoor courts with top-tier surfaces, a designated dinking court, a state-of-the-art reservation system, a pro shop, and a viewing area. Memberships are priced at $450 annually, with hourly court fees of $32 for members and $64 for non-members. The facility aims to provide a no-frills, pickleball-focused experience, which has been well-received by the community.

Looking ahead, Manatee County's new Athletics and Aquatics Center at Premier Sports North Campus is set to further enrich the local pickleball scene. Scheduled for completion in late summer or early fall 2026, the center will feature 24 pickleball courts, including 14 covered ones, providing additional options for players seeking facilities closer to home.

As lifestyle matchmakers, our real estate team understands the importance of aligning your home environment with your passions. For pickleball enthusiasts, Lakewood Ranch offers a dynamic and supportive community with a variety of playing venues to suit different preferences. Whether you're seeking a home near bustling outdoor courts or in proximity to emerging indoor facilities, we're here to help you find the perfect match for your lifestyle.

For more detailed information on the evolving pickleball landscape in Lakewood Ranch, you can read the full article here:

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