Austin Pickle Ranch—National Award Winner

Austin Pickle Ranch

Austin, Texas

Imagine, if you will, an empty warehouse that through its transformation into an indoor pickleball facility garnered a prestigious national award from the American Sports Builders Association as its 2024 Indoor Pickleball Facility of the Year. Well, that’s exactly what transpired for Austin Pickle Ranch, which had officially opened just one year earlier in October 2023.

The sport of pickleball is flourishing in the capital city of Texas, with nearly 20,000 people playing the game at least occasionally—and almost 3,500 registered members in the Austin Metro Pickleball Association.

Austin Pickle Ranch has been at the forefront of this wave of popularity. “We have reimagined what a pickleball venue can be for both our members and the Austin community,” said Tim Klitch, founder and chief fun officer. “Basically, think of the Austin Pickle Ranch as playing at your best friend’s house, but with way better courts! By blending intentional programming with thoughtful design, we have created a space that reflects the very best of the sport: connection and fun.”

Part of that thoughtful design began with a six-figure investment in noise-canceling technology, ensuring that players don’t just see the difference in quality, they hear it. The quieter environment has proven to make games more enjoyable and allows for a smoother experience on and off the court.

“We also designed the space with community at its core,” added Klitch. “Courtside lounges are located throughout the facility to give players a place to relax, recharge, and connect between matches. These spaces spark opportunities for conversation and a sense of belonging that extends far beyond the court.”

With 16 air-conditioned indoor courts and two outdoor courts that have hosted Major League Pickleball events, Austin Pickle Ranch offers continual open play, introductory classes for first-time players, lessons, clinics, and much more. Plus, it features world-class CushionX courts by CourTex and JOOLA pickleball paddles, and was the first DUPR Assessment Center in Texas.

At Austin Pickle Ranch, the team has created multiple tiers to keep the game accessible for every kind of player. Members enjoy free daily open play, an advance booking window, and special discounts on programming. Currently, there are about 500 active members, and more than 50,000 visitors have been welcomed to the courts.

Tournaments and special events are commonplace at the facility. In mid-November, it was turned into a plaid-packed, cider-sipping, dink-smashing wonderland for the Fall Flannel Fest Tournament. Fierce competition met flannel fashion, cozy chaos, and prizes for both skill and style.

World-class pickleball players have also been attracted to Austin Pickle Ranch. For example, the multitalented Johns brothers, Collin and Ben, have lent their expertise to its development through their ancillary business—Johns Design & Consulting.

“The Johns brothers have been great friends and early supporters of our business,” said Klitch. “Their insight on court construction, lighting, and overall playing experience has been invaluable in shaping how we design and build today.”

For more information on Austin Pickle Ranch, visit austinpickleranch.com. •