Curl Moncton Embraces Pickleball to Revitalize Membership and Adapt to Trends
Curl Moncton’s Strategic Shift to Pickleball
In a bid to enhance membership and respond to evolving sports trends, Curl Moncton in Canada is launching its own pickleball club. This decision was made during the club's annual general meeting, where it was announced that they would not renew their lease with Pickleball Moncton. Instead, they will establish the Southeast Pickleball Club, as stated by president Shannon Tatlock.
“At one point, Moncton had three curling clubs, but now we are down to just one,” Tatlock noted. “Our goal is to ensure that curling remains vibrant in Moncton for the long term. We are exploring new avenues to achieve that.” The new pickleball club will utilize one of the ice sheds at Curl Moncton, which is being rebranded as the Southeast Multiplex to accommodate a broader array of activities.
“To sustain our operations, we need to diversify our offerings,” Tatlock explained. “By welcoming various community members, we enhance our organization.” This initiative comes as pickleball's popularity surges, presenting an opportunity to attract new participants and generate additional revenue. “While we are committed to promoting curling, we also need a steady cash flow to maintain our facilities,” she added.
Following a significant decline in membership during the pandemic, Curl Moncton has been on the path to recovery, currently boasting around 380 members, which is about 75% of the pre-2019 figures. “Some members have not returned due to changes in their routines,” Tatlock remarked. The demand for pickleball has already surged, with courts often fully booked in advance. “All available slots are reserved well ahead of time,” she stated.
The Southeast Pickleball Club is set to launch on July 1, with annual memberships priced at $395 plus tax and drop-in sessions at $6 plus tax. Corporate rental options are also in the works. Tatlock is optimistic that this expansion will not negatively impact curling, as the facility has ample space and seasonal adaptability. “During the other six months, we must ensure our building operates at full capacity,” she said.
She anticipates that this initiative will draw more visitors to the venue. “We are discovering that returning members prefer a different approach,” Tatlock noted. “There’s no need for sign-ups, and activities are available at their convenience.” With the rise in pickleball participation and increasing demand in the area, Curl Moncton’s strategy signifies a broader trend towards more flexible, community-oriented sports models.