Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
- A new indoor pickleball facility, Premier Pickleball, opened in Herriman this weekend.
- The facility offers beginner classes, leagues, social clubs and advanced amenities for players.
- Pickleball's popularity is growing, with potential inclusion in the 2032 Olympic Games.
HERRIMAN — If you've ever wondered why pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in America, all you need to do is spend a few minutes on the court with Rusty Bryant.
"Good serve!" he calls out. "Great ball, Sammy!" Moments later, he smiles and says, "Now we're in trouble."
It's not trash talk. It's joy.
Bryant, who lives in Riverton, isn't just playing pickleball. He's connecting, laughing, having fun and maybe sneaking in a little cardio, too.
"This is what I look forward to," Rusty said. "You put in work with the family, work at work, and then this is my off time. I love it."
That's the kind of passion fueling the grand opening of Premier Pickleball at 5163 Denali Park Drive in Herriman.
The indoor facility opened its doors this weekend with several courts that feature a softer playing surface to protect knees and ankles, and even a video replay system to capture your best shots.
There is also a high-end ventilation system pulling in fresh air instead of recirculating air, making this a breath of fresh air, literally, for players.
"We wanted to make this whole facility specific to people who are serious about pickleball and make it a healthy, fun environment to play in," said co-owner Molly Hansen.
The best part is you don't have to be a pro to play.
In fact, Premier Pickleball offers classes for beginners, leagues for experienced players and social clubs for anyone who just wants to meet people and hit a few balls.
That's what drew Sandy resident Elyse Beckman to the grand opening.
"It's easy to move around on the court," she said. "Tennis is fun, but this is more fun because you can move faster and get the game going more."
From teenagers to retirees, pickleball is appealing to a wider crowd than ever before.
There is even talk of it making its Olympic debut for the 2032 Games in Brisbane, Australia.
For some, it's competition; but for others, it's a new way to get out of the house, be active and stay connected.
"I think everybody who starts to play goes through a phase of figuring it out, then becoming addicted," Hansen said with a laugh. "Then they find the balance they need to maintain it."
As for Rusty Bryant, he's definitely past the "figuring it out" stage. Now, he's just enjoying some friendly competition.
"If I can go and hit a few good shots, win or lose, if I know I played good, that makes me happy," Bryant said. "It's a great sport and this is a great facility."
