Pickleball tourney headed to Naperville
The area's first major pickleball tournament, the 2019 Chicago Pickleball Open, is coming to Naperville Park District's Nike Sports Complex July 16 through 21.
Chicago Metro Pickleball chose the Nike location to host the regional event, which be at the park's new, dedicated pickleball courts and the adjacent tennis courts, which will be lined to accommodate pickleball matches.
The tournament is open to interested players, both amateur (levels 3.0 to 4.5) and professional, with a $25,000 purse for the pro and senior pro events. Age levels include juniors, adults and seniors and events include men's and women's singles and doubles, and mixed doubles. Players can register at www.pickleballtournaments.com.
"Pickleball is catching on quickly in Naperville, and this tournament is a great opportunity to grow the sport even more," said Brad Wilson, director of recreation. "The community is invited to view the matches, which will include some of the highest-ranked players in the country. In addition, there will be a free introductory clinic on July 17 followed by a demonstration by pickleball pros."
Chicago Metro Pickleball is planning a "Dunk the Pro" fundraiser with proceeds going toward pickleball equipment for the local schools. Additionally, a portion of the proceeds from the tournament will benefit pickleball and tennis programs and facilities at the park district.
To prepare for and to host the tournament, the district will need to close the pickleball and tennis courts at Nike Sports Complex from July 15 through 21. Other outdoor pickleball courts (located on tennis courts that are also lined for pickleball) are available at DuPage River Sports Complex, at 2807 S. Washington St.; Ranchview Park, at 1727 Ranchview Drive; and Ashbury Park at 1740 Conan Doyle Road.
Outdoor courts are free to Naperville residents on a first-come, first-served basis. Indoor pickleball play is offered at open gyms at Fort Hill Activity Center. Visit www.napervilleparks.org/opengym for the current open gym schedule.
For an overview of the tournament and to learn more about the sport of pickleball, listen to the ParkTalk podcast episode with guest Ken Herrmann, executive director, Chicago Metro Pickleball and co- tournament director for the 2019 Chicago Pickleball Open at www.napervilleparks.org/podcasts.