Pickleball's Historic Landing: Bay Area's Newest Court Takes Off at an Old Air Station

The Bay Area unveils a new chapter in its sporting landscape as a pickleball complex springs to life in a rather nostalgic setting - the decommissioned Alameda Naval Air Station. This historic hub, once bustling with World War II aircraft, now resonates with the rhythmic clink of pickleball paddles. The transformed air station, now known as the Hub, launched its new identity with eight indoor pickleball courts, juxtaposing the sport's modern charm with the locale's historic essence. Nestled among old runways and hangars, the Hub pays homage to the past while serving up a trendy space for one of America's fastest-growing sports.

Co-founder Ted Angelo's vision steered the swift 2.5-month overhaul of the hangar, which shared its space with Bladium, a fitness center. This rapid transformation not only unveils a new sporting avenue but also preserves the hangar's historic aura, with its 60-foot tall sliding doors and military offices now overlooking the lively pickleball courts. The blend of heritage and contemporary sports culture echoes through the halls, as players revel in the energetic ambiance of the Hub. The plans don’t stop here; by year-end, the Hub aims to sport 15 pickleball courts, seven of which will grace the outdoors, offering a picturesque play area for enthusiasts.

The Hub's narrative extends beyond mere sports transformation. It's about rekindling a community spirit amidst a setting steeped in history. As Ted Angelo, a former U.S. Navy payroll clerk, navigates through the expansive hangar, his eyes gleam with the reflection of the giant American flag on the wall, symbolizing a profound connection to the past. The Hub's evolution marks a beautiful intersection of past meeting the present, creating not just a pickleball haven but a historical playground where every serve resonates with tales of bygone eras and promises of burgeoning sporting days.