Too hot for outdoor pickleball? Fear not, frizz-averse, humidity-haters. Dill Dinkers is opening its first club in Baltimore County in July.
Cockeysville, Maryland will be the home of the new club for pickleballers of all ages and skill levels, around one mile from Hunt Valley Towne Centre at 10912 York Road. The site will have nine dedicated Pro Cushion courts with fences, an event space, a ball machine, a pro shop, and a state-of-the-art reservation system powered by CourtReserve for members and visitors, according to the press release.
Dill Dinkers at Railroad Crossing will have clinics, private lessons, semi-private lessons, open play, round robins, leagues, and rentals. Businesses will have the chance to advertise and host employee and client events.
Franchise owner Steve Ator is spearheading the development of the club. He is a Towson University graduate and a businessman with 20 years of experience in supply chain management, Lean Six Sigma practices, and strategic change initiatives.
“Opening Dill Dinkers at Railroad Crossing this July is a thrilling opportunity to bring Pro Cushion indoor pickleball courts to Baltimore County,” Ator said in a statement. “It’s more than just a business venture, it’s about building a community. The mantra for my club will be ‘family’ and I want all members and guests to feel like they are part of the club’s community. Railroad Crossing’s ideal location and vibrant atmosphere make it the perfect place to launch, promising accessibility and a welcoming environment for pickleball enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.”
Pickleball was invented in 1965, but has seen a resurgence in popularity in recent years, primarily attributed to COVID-19 and the desire to be outdoors and with others safely. The fastest growing demographic for the sport is the 18-24-year-old age group, and the sport is extremely popular in both Baltimore City and the surrounding counties.
For membership information at Dill Dinkers at Railroad Crossing, click this link.
Editor’s note: A previous version of this article incorrectly identified Ator as a Cockeysville resident. The article has been updated.