09/11/2023
Papillion, Nebraska - Get ready for an exciting addition to the Papillion community! By late October, a state-of-the-art indoor basketball and pickleball facility will open its doors, courtesy of AEF Academy. This new facility promises to be a game-changer for sports enthusiasts and residents alike.
The brainchild of Andy Beck, founder of AEF Academy, this 13,000-square-foot indoor complex is taking shape next to the city's Public Works Department facility, conveniently located at 99th Street and Portal Road. Beck envisions a facility that will offer residents three basketball courts and four pickleball courts, all under one roof.
The goal is clear: to make pickleball as popular as basketball in Papillion. The facility will not only cater to the needs of seasoned athletes but also serve as a welcoming space for newcomers to both sports. Additionally, the facility will include men's and women's restrooms, an office area, and a concession stand for added convenience.
Construction progress is well underway, with the exterior walls already in place and concrete floors currently being poured. Although it will take approximately 30 days for the concrete to reach its full strength, the installation of the wood floors will follow, requiring an additional two to three weeks. Mark your calendars, as the target for opening the AEF Academy facility is set for October 23, 2023.
This new facility couldn't come at a better time, addressing the community's pressing need for indoor recreational space, especially during the colder months. As Beck emphasizes, "There's not a lot of indoor space during the wintertime, and we want to have space for kids to play."
"There's not a lot of indoor space during the wintertime, and we want to have space for kids to play." ~ Andy Beck, Founder of AEF Academy
The AEF Academy, founded by Beck in 2022 with four youth basketball teams, has already grown to include 14 teams for boys and girls in grades three through eight. The overwhelming interest within the community is a testament to the demand for such a facility.
Upon completion, the plan is to make the pickleball courts available for hourly rental by the public during daytime hours on weekdays. In contrast, the basketball courts will be reserved for youth teams in the evenings. The facility will also host weekend activities, with potential options for open gym memberships.
The forthcoming opening of the AEF Academy indoor basketball and pickleball facility in Papillion represents a significant milestone for both sports enthusiasts and the community as a whole.
This modern facility is set to provide a hub for sports, recreation, and community engagement, potentially enhancing property values and attracting potential homebuyers.
With the growing popularity of pickleball across the United States, this new facility's commitment to promoting the sport is expected to have a lasting positive impact on the Papillion community. Stay tuned for the grand opening in late October, as we prepare to welcome this exciting addition to our city.