December 17, 2024 by Hilary Jenison
Pickleball fever is sweeping the nation, and the South Shore now has a vibrant new destination for enthusiasts of this rapidly growing sport. Boston Pickle Club’s second facility, located at 77 Accord Park Drive in Norwell, offers a welcoming space for players of all skill levels—from curious beginners to seasoned experts and social players looking to connect over the game. Local Hingham residents Mike Wilmot and Lindsay Ford have played a pivotal role in the vision to bring Boston Pickle Club to the South Shore, ensuring that the club is as much about community as it is about sport.
This 28,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art indoor facility is a dream come true for pickleball players. Featuring ten premium courts with optimized lighting, 18-foot ceilings, and professional-grade surfaces identical to those used on the Carvana and PPA Tours, the Norwell location is designed to cater to all aspects of the game. The facility also provides a variety of amenities, including programming tailored to players of every level and age.
We had the pleasure of meeting with Johan du Randt and Stephen Mitchell, co-founders, at the new facility last week. Both Johan and Stephen are highly accomplished South African racquet sports professionals and have spared no details at the new facility. From the special flooring designed to prevent injury to the custom lighting, BPC Norwell is a haven for local pickleball enthusiasts. The club also features a large lounge area and a stretching and training area where injury prevention is always a focus for every player at every skill level.
“We’re excited to welcome players to our new facility and help them find their place in the growing world of pickleball,” shared Johan and Stephen. “We hope to welcome all levels to the sport o pickle ball, and we foresee a future where there are competitive high school, college and Olympic pickleball play. It’s an amazing sport, whether you are a beginner or competitive player we’re excited to see the passion for pickle ball grow on the South Shore.”
With nearly 500 memberships already sold and projections of surpassing 600 by the time doors officially open today, the excitement surrounding Boston Pickle Club is apparent. Whether players are planning an event, seeking competitive play, instructional opportunities, or a new way to stay active and meet friends, the club has something for everyone. Members also will have the flexibility to play at both the Norwell and Hyde Park locations, fostering a growing network of interconnected clubs for players across Eastern New England.
Inclusive Programming for Every Player
Boston Pickle Club offers an array of activities and benefits designed to accommodate all levels of play:
- Membership Tiers: Options for individuals, families, seniors, and juniors, with perks like advanced court booking, league play, club championships, and exclusive events.
- Instructional Opportunities: Private lessons with top professionals, clinics for skill development, and after-school junior classes for kids aged 5-14+.
- Competitive Play: Level-based Open Play, league play, tournaments, and round robins.
- Special Events: Junior summer camps, social gatherings, and more to bring the community together.
A Community at Its Heart
“We are thrilled to open our second facility in Norwell and can’t wait to unveil our product to the South Shore,” says Steven Hauck, co-founder of Boston Pickle Club. “The support and interest from the South Shore communities has been unbelievable. We aim to create an inclusive community centered around health, fitness, and fun, offering something for everyone.”
At its core, Boston Pickle Club is about fostering connections—on and off the court. With Mike Wilmot and Lindsay Ford’s local leadership and support, the new facility is positioned to become a cornerstone for pickleball enthusiasts across the South Shore. The inclusive atmosphere ensures that everyone, from first-time players to seasoned competitors, feels at home.
For more information or to join the club, visit www.bostonpickleclub.com.