Brewery Owners Propel Pickleball in Kalamazoo with $7M Complex

Pickleball enthusiasts in Kalamazoo are in for a treat, thanks to Ruth and Mike Stoddard, owners of Latitude 42 Brewing Co. Their private donation is helping fund the $7 million Latitude 42 Pickleball Complex at Western Michigan University’s West Hills Athletic Club. The 37,000-square-foot indoor facility, set to open in June, will feature 13 championship-sized courts, modern amenities like a lounge and outdoor patio, and access to club facilities. This addition brings the total number of courts at the club to 21, creating one of the largest pickleball venues in the region.

The new complex not only highlights the growth of pickleball but also addresses long-standing competition for space between tennis and pickleball players at the West Hills Athletic Club. “Creating a separate space for pickleball will allow us to address the different needs of each sport and accommodate exponential growth for years to come,” said Betsy Sell, the club’s general manager. With pickleball continuing to rise in popularity, the facility aims to be a hub for students, faculty, and the local community, offering top-tier courts and access to fitness amenities.

The Latitude 42 Pickleball Complex is part of a broader trend in Kalamazoo, with multiple pickleball facilities under development. The Stoddards, who founded Latitude 42 in 2013, expressed their hope that the new venue will serve as a gathering place for the community. Their investment underscores the connection between wellness, recreation, and community-building. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, this world-class facility will undoubtedly elevate Kalamazoo’s pickleball scene and offer countless opportunities for play and connection.