The Park District of Highland Park has announced the development of the largest Pickleball and Padel indoor facility on the Northshore: Club Pickle and Padel. The brand-new domed facility at 2205 Skokie Valley Road in Highland Park will feature 10 pickleball courts and 4 padel courts.

“In keeping with the character of the Park District, Club Pickle and Padel will be an extraordinary destination where residents and players of all ages and abilities feel welcome,” said Executive Director Brian Romes. “This new facility has been designed to create an inclusive hub, with state-of-the-art amenities, where pickleball and padel enthusiasts, as well as the curious newcomers, can gather, meet, compete, and learn to play the world’s fastest growing sports.” 

The Park District has set an ambitious goal of opening this new community-oriented facility just in time to escape the cold winter and get into the heated 50,000 sq. ft. facility with enough courts to accommodate the high demand for year-round pickleball and entice newcomers to try Padel on the North Shore’s first constructed courts. Players will be able to escape the elements of inclement weather in the comfort of this spacious facility that is roughly 60 ft. tall and includes a skylight across the top. 

A significant portion of this $4.2 million dollar project is being funded by a generous donation from Highland Park native, Ron Saslow, with additional funds coming from the Parks Foundation of Highland Park, individual and business donors, sponsors, and the Park District.  

“Pickleball is a sport that brings people together,” said Ron Saslow. “It’s easy to learn, it’s a very social game, and I’m thrilled to be able to help bring a state-of-the-art facility to the community I love.”

What is padel you may ask? It is one of the fastest-growing racquet sports in the world. Originating in Mexico, padel is a cross between tennis and squash. Club Pickle and Padel will be one of the only indoor facilities in Illinois offering padel courts.

Pickleball players can sign up right now for the 4th Annual North Shore “Smash for Charity” Tournament being held September 21 from 8am–2pm. The tournament includes Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed Divisions, and proceeds benefit the Parks Foundation, which supports scholarships for Highland Park and Highwood families in need and projects. As an extra incentive, players will have a chance to win a one-year membership to the new Club Pickle & Padel!