IN THE
PICKLEBALL IN THE HAUS ! by DREW WATHEY
CLUB
Pickle
Haüs
CHICAGO , ILLINOIS
Chicago has always been a sports paradise , and away from the ivy-covered walls of Wrigley Field and the Michael Jordan statue outside the United Center , pickleball has taken root in this gem of a Midwest city .
With a grand opening in November 2023 that attracted more than 600 people , Pickle Haüs is in Algonquin , 45 minutes from Chicago .
Pickle Haüs features 12 indoor pickleball courts and offers an optimum playing experience that includes four-side fencing on all courts , state-of-the-art cushioned surfaces , LED lighting to reduce glare , ample spacing around the courts and expansive ceiling height .
The designers and builders of Pickle Haüs have a wealth of experience . “ Members of our leadership team have developed more than a billion square feet of Chicagoland real estate , so their decision-making skills and tastes have influenced the greater Chicago market , in addition to influencing our Pickle Haüs aesthetic ,” says Jeff VanDixhorn , co-founder of Pickle Haüs . “ We ’ ve also worked with leading Chicago firms to design and build the facility , so their influences are seen and felt as well .”
There is courtside seating at Pickle Haüs , so pickleballers can eat and drink between matches or bring a larger group of 12-15 players and alternate between dining and playing . Five of the courts are cabana courts , with a larger seating area with a sofa and high-top tables . “ Adjacent to the courts , we have
a restaurant and bar area where guests can eat , drink , and enjoy cheering on their favorite sports teams ,” adds VanDixhorn . “ In the same area , we have two world-class golf simulators , where you can virtually play on some of the world ’ s premier courses .”
Pickle Haüs will offer special events and programming throughout the day — from youth pickleball programs and beginner lessons to tournaments and events for advanced players . Based on feedback from guests , it may begin to incorporate themed events and opportunities for groups to play together ( family events , mom events , couples nights , etc .). The calendar on picklehaus . com will be updated with special events as they are planned .
League play was scheduled to get underway in January to start off the new year and feature a variety of league options — men ’ s , women ’ s and mixed doubles play . All leagues , including advanced beginners ( 3.0 ), intermediate ( 3.5 / 4.0 ) and advanced ( 4.5 +), will be managed by Pickle Haüs ’ professional staff .
Whether it ’ s playing competitively or recreationally , or just enjoying delectable meals crafted by chef Sheamus Feely — who , by the way , has James Beard experience — Pickle Haüs has everything covered for the pickleball lover . •
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