WEAVERVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — A 132,000-square-foot industrial building is on the precipice of becoming a sprawling indoor pickleball court. Located just minutes outside of downtown Weaverville, Ballcrank Pickleball Club is slated to open late this summer.
The former headquarters of the Balcrank Corporation from 1982 to 2015, 115 Reems Creek Road will be rebranded as Ballcrank Arcade & Fairgrounds. In addition to Ballcrank Pickleball Club, the facility will soon house other future businesses.
Pickleball paradise
In a press release, BPC laid out the details of the pickleball plan.
“The Ballcrank Pickleball Club was founded by a group of local residents who recognized the need for a year-round facility dedicated specifically to this fast-growing sport,” BPC wrote. “Thanks to best-in-class amenities, including cushioned courts and state-of-the-art lighting, the facility will offer a premier playing experience as well as indoor and outdoor lounge spaces for food, beverages and socializing.”
Once completed, the 12-court pickleball club will take up over 30,000 square feet of the BAF. The courts will be open to the public on a pay-as-you-play basis or through a monthly membership model.
Ruben Kellam will serve as the general manager of BPC. The manager already has a vision for the potential impact of the club.
“Pickleball has always been about more than just the game for me – it’s about building community, competition and connection,” Kellam said in the release. “At Ballcrank, my vision is to build a welcoming home for players of all ages and skill levels through high-quality instruction, skills development, youth camps, competitive and recreational leagues, social events, tournaments and strong community partnerships.”
Beyond the ball
BAF has more than pickleball courts on the way. Keith Davis, CEO of BPC and owner of BAF, said that there are several leases in various stages of development.
“The plan is to create a mix of recreational, cultural and hospitality businesses that will bring people with a broad range of interests to the space and to nearby Downtown Weaverville,” BPC wrote in the release.
Even at BPC, the goal is not just to play pickleball. It is to forge community.
“We want Ballcrank to be more than just a place to play pickleball. It will be a place where friendships are built, families connect, and players have opportunities to learn, compete and grow, both on and off the court,” Kellam said.