Georgui Kasaev

Pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., is coming to Oconee County in a big way. Dave Moran and Eric Middleton, two Atlanta-based businessmen, have announced their plans to open Pickleball Kingdom by the summer of 2025. The site, located just north of Watkinsville off U.S. Highway 441, will feature a massive 45,000-square-foot indoor facility housing 16 courts, locker rooms, and a pro shop offering pickleball gear.

Moran and Middleton signed a franchise agreement with Pickleball Kingdom, a national franchise with facilities already established in Texas and Washington. Despite their initial plans to open a location in Atlanta, the Athens area quickly emerged as a prime market.

A Growing Sport in a Growing Market
Athens, Georgia, known for its vibrant community and sports culture, is a natural fit for this new venture. "Athens was always on our mind," said Moran, whose wife attended the University of Georgia (UGA), as did his business partner, Middleton. "We see it as a fast-growing market for a lot of reasons."

Pickleball, a sport combining elements of badminton, table tennis, and wiffle ball, was invented in 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington. Today, it’s attracting players from a variety of sports backgrounds. "There is a big contingent of people coming over from tennis," said Moran. "The tennis courts are often vacant because everyone’s playing pickleball now."

In Athens, the sport has already gained a foothold, with the Athens Area Pickleball Association actively promoting the game. The facility in Oconee County will serve this growing community, providing a state-of-the-art venue where players can enjoy the sport year-round.

Why Indoors?
While outdoor pickleball is popular, indoor facilities like Pickleball Kingdom offer clear advantages. “The wind and sun can be a challenge when playing outside,” Moran explained. “Playing indoors allows people to enjoy the game in optimal conditions year-round.” The lightweight, plastic ball used in pickleball is particularly susceptible to wind, making indoor courts more appealing for serious and recreational players alike.

A Game for All Ages
One of the sport’s biggest attractions is its inclusivity. Moran himself plays pickleball with his 88-year-old father and teenage children, highlighting the game’s accessibility to all generations. "There are not many sports where you can bring the entire family together and have a great time," he said. The simple rules and quick pace make it easy to pick up, but challenging enough to keep players engaged.

Community Impact
Beyond the game itself, Moran and Middleton are excited about the community-building potential of pickleball. "There is a strong social aspect to pickleball that Eric and I fell in love with," Moran noted. The duo envisions their facility as a hub for local players, including young athletes. “The sport has become so popular with younger players that you're starting to see college teams and club teams forming. We want to support that growth," Moran said. With pickleball gaining traction at universities, including UGA, Pickleball Kingdom could become a key venue for collegiate tournaments and events.

A New Era for Athens Sports
The indoor facility is set to accommodate not just the recreational crowd but also more competitive players. The sport is governed by national and international associations, with organized competitions at every level, from amateur to professional. Given its growing popularity, pickleball could soon become as much a part of Athens' athletic culture as football.

In an area known for its strong ties to sports, Pickleball Kingdom will be a valuable addition to the community, offering a new way for people of all ages and abilities to stay active. The indoor courts will also help reduce the strain on outdoor recreational areas, providing a dedicated space for pickleball enthusiasts to play and connect with others.

With construction slated to begin soon, Pickleball Kingdom is expected to open its doors by summer 2025, marking a new chapter in the local sports scene and adding to the vibrant athletic culture that Athens and Oconee County are known for.

Whether you're an experienced player or a newcomer to the game, Pickleball Kingdom will offer the perfect environment to sharpen your skills and enjoy this increasingly popular sport.

For additional stories about Athens and valuable information, you can explore Georgui Kassaev's blog at https://www.myresidencesold.com/blog.php.

If you're curious about the value of your home, Georgui offers a free tool to help you determine its worth, which you can access at https://myre.io/08mu2U11o5zn.

Georgui Kassaev is here to assist with all your commercial and residential real estate needs and roofing concerns. Feel free to reach out to him at 706-928-9959.

Great news Athens! Plans Announced for Pickleball Kingdom in Oconee County, Georgia. Pickleball, one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., is coming to Oconee County in a big way. Dave Moran and Eric