Rick Beyer and Michelle Jensen-Beyer acquired the strip at Bridgeview Plaza on the north side of La Crosse, Wisconsin, in 2020.
They purchased the property with the idea in mind that a buyer would come along and develop the former Shopko site into something that would generate substantial customer footfall.
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However, despite interest from five parties proposing indoor pickleball spaces, none could meet the financial requirements, and consequently, Rick and Michelle decided to undertake the project themselves.
The erstwhile Shopko establishment on La Crosse’s North Side has since undergone a massive transformation into a 17-court indoor pickleball venue called The Blue Zone Pickleball!
Rick told News8 Now, “The North Side has just got all the amenities you want; it just needs something to spur it along. The pickleball community is just an interesting community, and it really plays into our beliefs and thoughts. We’re really into community, the socialization of pickleball.”
Cutting-Edge Elements
Acknowledging the contributions of local vendors, Beyer emphasized their diligence in sourcing cutting-edge elements for the pickleball space. This includes specialized concrete and a heating system designed to minimize interference with gameplay by directing airflow away from the courts.
Presently, the facility operates from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekends, with plans underway for a forthcoming grand opening celebration scheduled for the following month.
The facility offers classes and personalized training in a state-of-the-art environment with climate-controlled courts, an event room, lockers, lounge areas, and more.
Free Intro Classes
They offer a variety of levels of classes with monthly tournaments, programs by skill level, and daily open play. Free intro classes are also available.
The club allows you to pre-book a court: visitors can reserve a space two days in advance, while Diamond and Diamond Elite members can pre-book up to 14-15 days in advance!
You can purchase onsite merchandise for your pickleball needs. Items for sale include t-shirts, hats, paddles, balls, water bottles, and more, and they have an online store coming soon! They also have paddles for rent.
Their annual memberships for discounted play start at $497/year (an average of just less than $42/month). There is also a discounted couples membership as well as family options, or you can simply drop by and play as a visitor.
Please note you must be at least 16 years of age to qualify for the free class. Adults must accompany any minors. Blue Zone will provide instruction and group classes for youth in the near future for a fee.
Click here for more information on hours, membership, and more.
La Crosse, Wisconsin
La Crosse is the county seat of La Crosse County. Sitting on the Mississippi River, La Crosse is the largest city on Wisconsin’s western border, with a population of around 53,000.
It is about 105 northwest of the state capital, Madison.
Click here to read more about pickleball in Wisconsin.
