WHITEHALL, Pa. – A new “premier pickleball destination,” totaling more than 60,000 square feet, will welcome individuals looking to participate in the fast-growing sport next month in the Lehigh Valley.
The first Pennsylvania location of Pickleball Kingdom, a popular indoor pickleball facility franchise, is set to open Nov. 15 at 2180 MacArthur Road in Whitehall Township, franchisee Chris Monteith told 69 News.
The state-of-the-art facility, spanning more than 60,000 square feet and featuring 14 professional-grade indoor courts, will occupy a renovated Whitehall Square space, previously home to Decor Home Furniture & Mattresses.
A location of Pickleball Kingdom is coming soon to 2180 MacArthur Road in Whitehall Township.
Ryan Kneller
It will feature 22-foot ceilings, four dinking walls to sharpen your game, community lounges and business rooms to work and recharge, lockers and showers, event spaces and more.
Monteith will operate the new Pickleball Kingdom location with his wife, BethAnn Monteith.
“Pickleball’s explosive growth across the country is undeniable, and Pennsylvania’s passion for the sport is at an all-time high,” said Ace Rodrigues, founder and CEO of Pickleball Kingdom.
“We are thrilled to bring Pickleball Kingdom to Lehigh Valley and create a welcoming space where players of all skill levels can connect, compete, and elevate their game.”
The Lehigh Valley facility will offer:
State-of-the-art indoor courts: Engineered to provide the best playing conditions, combining outdoor court surfaces with indoor benefits for year-round play;
Professional coaching and clinics: Programs designed for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players;
Youth programs: Inspiring the next generation to embrace and enjoy the sport;
Leagues and tournaments: Organized for players seeking both casual and competitive play opportunities; and
Community and corporate events: Building local connections through engaging pickleball events.
“Pickleball has taken the Lehigh Valley by storm, but many enthusiasts share a common frustration — the shortage of high-quality courts available year-round,” Chris said. “That’s where Pickleball Kingdom comes in. We offer a thriving community of pickleball players and a safe, well-maintained space to play, no matter the weather or time of day.”
Pickleball Kingdom Hendersonville
By Pickleball Kingdom Franchising
“Our club will serve as a hub for pickleball enthusiasts and a vibrant space for the entire community,” BethAnn added. “With a state-of-the-art facility designed for both pickleball and community events, we aim to inspire connection, fun, and top-notch experiences for all.”
The first Pickleball Kingdom location opened to much fanfare in May 2022 in Chandler, Arizona, according to the business’ website.
Founder Ace Rodrigues got the idea for Pickleball Kingdom as he loved the sport, especially the spirit of it, but he wanted to eliminate the downsides of playing outdoors.
“Have you ever said or thought, ‘I love everything about pickleball! Well, except the sun, the wind, the rain, the heat, the cold, and the waiting?’” a message on the business’ website reads.
After a year of operations and perfecting the system, Pickleball Kingdom was ready to expand nationally through franchising.
The leadership team started reviewing franchise applications in May 2023, and the response was enormous. Six months later, about 100 franchise clubs had been awarded, with that number growing weekly.
“We’re excited to collaborate with Chris and BethAnn Monteith, whose passion for pickleball and dedication to building strong community ties are truly inspiring,” said Rob Streett, president and chief global officer of Pickleball Kingdom. “Their commitment to creating inclusive spaces where people can connect, enjoy, and grow will play a pivotal role in the success of this location and will leave a lasting impact on the community.”
Pictured are Pickleball Kingdom franchisees Chris and BethAnn Monteith.
By Pickleball Kingdom Franchising
The Monteiths bring a wealth of business experience to Pickleball Kingdom. Chris had a successful career with Coca-Cola before launching numerous entrepreneurial ventures with BethAnn, his wife of 34 years, who has had a distinguished career as an accountant.
Among their business successes is LightSpeed Logistics, Inc., a thriving Amazon Delivery Service Partner delivering over 4,000 packages daily.
The first Lehigh Valley location of Pickleball Kingdom recently opened enrollment for founding memberships, featuring exclusive packages and early access perks.
Founding memberships are $109 per month or $1,090 per year for an ACE Membership (one person), $199 per month or $1,990 per year for a Team Membership (two people) and $239 per month or $2,390 per year for a Royal Family (two adults and their children and/or grandchildren, ages 17 and younger).
Discounts are extended to police officers, firefighters and military personnel.
A wide array of membership benefits includes unlimited open play, unlimited private court reservations, private court reservations credits, 50% discount on ball machine rentals, discounted access to leagues, VIP invites for tournaments and events and a Pickleball Kingdom swag bag, among others.
Inside of Pickleball Kingdom Plano
By Pickleball Kingdom Franchising
For the latest updates, follow Pickleball Kingdom Lehigh Valley – Whitehall’s Facebook page. Info: pickleballkingdom.com/clubs/lv-whitehall/.