NORMAL ( 25News Now ) - With pickleball being one of the nation’s fastest-growing sports, Central Illinois pickleball enthusiasts have a new place to play year-round.

The Picklr is a Utah-based franchise and is located in the home of the former Gold’s Gym Express on Normal’s east side.

“It’s supposed to be an all-inclusive club for pickleball enthusiasts. We thought this would be an excellent base to start our Central Illinois expansion, where we’re also planning for Peoria, Champaign, and the Quad Cities,” said Adam Bell, The Picklr’s managing member.

Bloomington Normal Pickleball Club President Chris Kawakita said the franchise’s arrival in Central Illinois serves up more than its whiffle balls.

“It’s just speaking to the fact that the growth of this game has exploded; I mean, you see it all around the country, even the world, but especially here in Bloomington-Normal,” said Kawakita.

While other indoor pickleball courts have already made a home in the Twin Cities, The Picklr is the first pickleball-only social club for players.

The facility is 30,000 sq. ft., offering nine pickleball courts, two championship courts, a pro shop, and lounge areas, giving players another space to utilize during the winter months and beyond.

“We offer an all-year-long controlled environment where you know exactly the kind of play you will get. The courts are specifically designed to meet professional pickleball regulations,” said Bell.

Kawakita has seen the sport grow across younger generations since picking up a paddle in 2020.

Bell said clubs like The Picklr have piqued the interest of many in the younger generation.

Both agree that when it comes to this sport, the more, the merrier.

“Pickleball is like this perfect combination where you can bring in the athletic skills from these other sports and have a fun and competitive experience,” said Kawakita.

The Picklr officially opens on Saturday, October 26, and is located at 1503 E. College Ave, Normal, IL 61761. Information on their hours and membership pricing can be found on their website .

You can watch 25News - any newscast, anywhere - streaming LIVE on 25NewsNow.com, our 25News mobile app, and on our WEEK 25News SmartTV streaming app. Learn more about how you can get connected to 25News streaming live news here .