National Top-10 Pickleball facility opens in Loves Park; Victory Pickleball’s 15 indoor courts make the facility the largest in Illinois

One of the fastest growing sports in the United States is the center of a new sports complex now open in Loves Park, Illinois. Recently, Victory Pickleball hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony for its sprawling 54,000 square foot facility, which includes 15 state-of-the-art indoor courts.

As a new facility dedicated to the fast-growing sport, Victory Pickleball is poised to further refine the sports and entertainment experience in the region with its unique offerings.

The facility, located at 7003 N. Alpine Road, also features a dining area with a self-serve tap wall offering an impressive selection of 30 unique beers and wines.

For those seeking additional entertainment options, the facility offers table tennis, pool tables, foosball, cornhole, darts and slots.

Victory Pickleball is the only dedicated indoor pickleball facility in the Northern Illinois region. The building is a remodeled 50-year-old complex. Visitors cannot miss Victory, with its colorful new mural facing Alpine Rd. by local artist Brett Whitacre.

“The entire facility has been rebuilt to become the premier pickleball and sports entertainment venue in the Midwest,” said Victory Pickleball owner, Tim Ancona. “Victory boasts the most indoor Pickleball courts of any facility in Illinois and one of the top 10 in the country. Whether you are a seasoned Pickleball player or new to the game, our well-maintained courts offer a fantastic space to showcase your skills and engage in some friendly competition.”

“Loves Park is very excited for the Victory Pickleball facility to be opening in our city. This new complex will bring many people to the city to enjoy all the activities that they will be offering. We are really looking forward to continuing working with Tim and his team at this location,” said Loves Park Mayor Greg Jury.

Pickleball started in the 1960s but has increased in popularity in the last few years. The sport is like tennis, but players hit a hollow ball with a paddle. The sport has millions of dedicated players of all skill levels.

“Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the United States. With more than 36 million active players, the sport represents untapped tourism potential for Loves Park and Rockford.

“Our destination has unrivaled facilities, and a winning record of hosting regional and national tournaments.

“Victory Pickleball adds to our strength as a top sports tourism destination and we look forward to working to bring new tournaments and competitors to the area to take advantage of this fantastic new facility,” said John Groh, president/CEO of the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau.

Fast Facts About Pickleball (according to Sports & Fitness Industry Association):

* There are 36.5 million pickleball players in the US (as of 2022)

* Pickleball participation has grown an average of 158.6% over the past three years

* Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America for the past three years

* 7.7 percent forecasted compound annual growth rate of pickleball paddle sales through 2028

* Interest in pickleball has increased 467% over the past 5 years, according to Google Trends

* A pickleball net is 35” high at the sidelines, and 34” high in the middle; a court is 44’ long and 20’ wide

Victory Pickleball is committed to fostering a vibrant community where the joy of pickleball brings people together. With leagues, lessons, tournaments and open play opportunities players of all skill levels can enjoy the sport. Membership options, including Gold and Bronze, provide various benefits and discounts to cater to individual preferences. Information on membership can be found at www.victorypb.com.

Victory Pickleball also offers a party room and ample space to host corporate events, birthday parties, and larger gatherings, making it the ideal venue for team building and creating memorable moments.

RACVB is responsible for promoting the Rockford region as an attractive travel destination and enhancing its public image as a dynamic place to live and work. Through the impact of travel, RACVB strengthens the economic position of the region and provides opportunities for people in our communities. gorockford.com

Kristen Paul, RACVB VP of Destination Development: 815-489-1661 or [email protected]