Three years ago, Dale Zbieranek purchased the vacant lot adjacent to his bar of 10 years, Dale Z’s On Tour, 3585 S. Howell Ave. His goal was to use the space to provide a competitive, outdoor sport for his customers to enjoy.
Originally, Zbieranek considered human foosball – yes, that's really a thing – but after more research decided to install pickleball courts.
The regulation-size playing courts feature anti-slip “SportCourt” surfaces that, according to the company’s website, have “revolutionary PickleGrip material for a superior level of grip that eliminates inconsistent and frustrating ball bounces.”
The courts are enclosed by eight-foot fences that are topped with lighting for nighttime games.
From now through the end of the season (which runs through late October or early November), there is no charge to play pickleball at Dale Z’s. Interested players can text “pickle” to (414) 812-4400 for info and walk-ins are welcome.
In the spring, Dale Z’s will utilize an online system to reserve courts and the cost will be $10. Zbrieranek also plans to host pickleball leagues and add an outdoor bar.
Players are encouraged to bring their own pickleball equipment, but can borrow it from the bar for free if need be.
According to the USA Pickleball Association, pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the world. The game is kind of a mash-up between tennis and ping-pong that’s played on a badminton-sized court with an oversized paddle and a whiffle-esque ball.
“We’re proud to say we have the best pickleball surface and the best outdoor pair of courts in the city,” says Zbrieranek. “So far, it’s been off the hook – customers are loving it – and yet we have not had to turn anyone away.”
"Like" Dale Z's On Tour Facebook page to stay updated on pickleball news.
For more information about Milwaukee pickleball, go here.
Molly Snyder started writing and publishing her work at the age 10, when her community newspaper printed her poem, "The Unicorn.” Since then, she's expanded beyond the subject of mythical creatures and written in many different mediums but, nearest and dearest to her heart, thousands of articles for OnMilwaukee.
Molly is a regular contributor to FOX6 News and numerous radio stations as well as the co-host of "Dandelions: A Podcast For Women.” She's received five Milwaukee Press Club Awards, served as the Pfister Narrator and is the Wisconsin State Fair’s Celebrity Cream Puff Eating Champion of 2019.
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