Pickleball enthusiasts in England have something exciting to look forward to as Franklin Sports and MCMX have partnered to unveil the largest dedicated pickleball club in the country. The rapid growth of pickleball in England has sparked incredible enthusiasm, and this collaboration is a testament to the sport’s increasing popularity. Set to open in 2025, the new club promises to provide a cutting-edge facility that caters to both seasoned players and newcomers, elevating the pickleball experience to new heights. With state-of-the-art amenities, including four show courts designed to accommodate international pickleball tournaments and events, this club is set to become a hub for pickleball enthusiasts across the nation and around the world. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the evolution of pickleball in England, and its impact is sure to be felt throughout the pickleball community.
You can learn more in the article below about the proposed plans for this cutting-edge pickleball club.
Franklin Sports, an iconic brand and global leader in sports equipment, has announced a groundbreaking collaboration with MCMX to establish the UK’s largest premier pickleball club in Kingston Upon Thames, Greater London. Scheduled to open in early 2025, the planned state-of-the-art facility is set to become the ultimate destination for pickleball enthusiasts of all levels, featuring first-class amenities including:
- 10 high-specification dedicated pickleball courts, 4 of which are show courts equipped with seating designed to accommodate international tournaments and events
- Changing rooms with showers & warm-up areas
- A café and bar with spacious viewing balcony and social areas
- Comprehensive professional retail shop
Located in Fairfield Trade Park, the club will be easily accessible by foot, bike, train, bus, or car, making it a convenient location for the growing pickleball community.
Jared Franklin of Franklin Sports expressed his excitement about the partnership:
“We’re thrilled to join forces with MCMX in plans to bring the UK’s largest dedicated pickleball club to life. This venture represents a perfect synergy between our commitment to innovation and MCMX’s dedication to excellence in venue operations and facilities. We look forward to providing a world-class experience for pickleball enthusiasts in Greater London and beyond.”
Neil Rodford and Louise Stephens, Founders of MCMX, added:
“Partnering with Franklin Sports to plan this state-of-the-art pickleball club is a dream come true for all of us at MCMX. We are excited to combine our expertise in pickleball and facility management with Franklin’s renowned reputation in the industry to create a premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts and those yet to discover the game.”
Karen Mitchell, Chair of Pickleball England, also shared her enthusiasm:
“The planned establishment of the UK’s largest dedicated pickleball club in Greater London is a significant development for the sport in our country. This collaboration between Franklin Sports and MCMX will undoubtedly elevate the profile of pickleball and provide a world-class facility for players to hone their skills and enjoy the game to the fullest.”
In support of the planned facility, Pickleball England is hosting a pop-up ‘Pickleball Slam’ event at Fairfield Trade Park on Wednesday 12th June, with former British no.1 tennis players Johanna Konta & Greg Rusedski joining top pickleball players in a mixed doubles exhibition match.
As anticipation builds for the grand opening in early 2025, the partnership between Franklin Sports and MCMX promises to revolutionize the pickleball landscape in the south of England. This project remains subject to planning permission* from Kingston Upon Thames Council, with a decision expected in the summer of 2024. The MCMX team is committed to working with the local community and authorities to provide a facility that all stakeholders can be proud of.
* we are delighted to announce that our plans have now been Validated by the council. You can view and comment on the proposal here: https://publicaccess.kingston.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?keyVal=SDL5XZNHGMN00&activeTab=summary
Introducing pickleball – one of the world’s fastest growing sports
Described as a cross between tennis, badminton and table tennis, pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the USA, with participation in England increasing rapidly too. The sport is popular with players of all ages due to its accessibility and inclusivity, low equipment cost, exciting rallies, and vibrant social scene. With thousands of active players in the UK, the sport has seen exponential growth in the past year, with Pickleball England Association reporting a 65% increase in membership at the end of 2023.
Go to www.franklinpickleballclub.com for more information.
