Tampa seems to have started a love affair with pickleball.
Midtown Tampa has announced that Poprally Pickleball will be hosting pop-up pickleball showdowns from September 22 to 24 on the 6th floor of the Waterview Parking Garage.
The Tampa Pickleball Crew is set to unveil a new membership-based indoor pickleball facility in the Gas Worx development located in Ybor City.
The city is also in the process of adding a multitude of pickleball courts across various locations.
Poprally
A Wellness-Focused Community
Poprally is described as “A wellness-focused community in the heart of Tampa Bay, united in creating a better life for all,” and That’s So Tampa says its guiding motto is “Pick up a paddle and start having fun.”
Further details about the event in September will soon be available on the official pickleball tournament event page.
Call 813-738-4120 or inquire on their Facebook page to register or obtain more information.
For those interested, Midtown Tampa is situated at 3659 Midtown Drive, while the Waterview Parking Garage, where the event will be held, is located at 3609 West Arch Street.
Stay updated on future events by following Poprally Pickleball on Instagram.
Visit floridapickleballtournaments.net for a comprehensive list of Florida tournaments.
Sunshine And Sunset Markets
Don’t miss out on the Sunshine and Sunset Markets organized by Tampa Bay Markets. They regularly host music bingo in Midtown Commons, along with free outdoor yoga events. Additionally, mark your calendar for a carefree, car-free celebration on September 23.
The Tampa Pickleball Crew
Spearheading The Surge
The Tampa Pickleball Crew, founded by Susan Forsyth, Jen Plummer, Dene Wilson, and Kayla Goldman, is spearheading the surge of pickleball in Tampa.
They have announced the opening of a substantial pickleball facility in Ybor City inside a warehouse owned by Gas Worx developer Darryl Shaw.
This 28,000-square-foot warehouse at 1701 E. Second Ave. will boast at least seven pickleball courts, with renovations anticipated to be completed for under $100,000.
“What It’s Like To Play In The Florida Weather”
While an official opening date for the indoor courts is still pending, it is expected to be announced soon.
The founders expressed in a joint statement: “The Crew understands what it’s like trying to find available courts and what it’s like to play in the Florida weather, so we are converting a 28,000 square foot warehouse into pickleball courts for us all to play together!”
Founding Members
The Crew has recently introduced membership opportunities, offering founding members access to promotional pricing, VIP “Very Important Pickleballer” Events, the ability to pre-book courts and open play conveniently via an app, and more. All skill levels are welcome.
The Tampa Pickleball Crew held its inaugural pickleball tournament at Cuscaden Park (2900 N 15th Street) in April, featuring a friendly-style series guaranteeing a minimum of three games.
They have also announced the upcoming Fall Classic Tournament. You are cordially invited to attend their first Spring Fling Pickleball tournament on 9/16 at Cuscaden Park.
This friendly-style series guarantees a minimum of six games. Register here.
Visit their website to learn more about the Crew and subscribe to their newsletter.
Tampa Parks And Recreation
An Additional 26 Pickleball Courts
Prior to 2021, Tampa Parks & Recreation provided just nine pickleball courts at Julian B. Lane, Cuscaden Park, and Madison Park. By 2022, they expanded to 14 courts across locations like Rowlett Park, Foster Playground, and Skyview Playground.
In 2023, 26 pickleball courts will be added across Copeland Park, Williams Park, MacFarlane Park, Highland Pines Park, Al Barnes Park, Vila Brothers, and New Tampa Park.
Indoor Courts
For those who prefer indoor play, courts are available at MLK Gymnasium, Forest Hills Gymnasium, Port Tampa Gymnasium, Loretta Ingraham Gymnasium, and the Police Athletic League Gymnasium.
Beginners can take advantage of free daily lessons at Cordelia B. Hunt and Barksdale Centers, while private instruction is available upon request at Rowlett Park.
Mayor Jane Castor said, “Pickleball is incredibly popular here in Tampa and provides so many great opportunities to exercise while working on agility and balance. People of all ages can easily take up the game, and it’s simple to learn, especially if you ever played badminton or tennis. We can’t wait to see the public out enjoying these new courts.”
Sherisha Hills, Director of Tampa Parks & Recreation, said, “Whether you’re a beginner who just wants to learn a new sport for fun, or you’re an experienced pickleball player, this sport offers something for everyone.
“For someone wanting to add casual, social exercise to their routine, pickleball is a great way to go.”
