sterlingmade Summer 2026

ty room available for rent, a pro shop, a reflection room, a nursing and family area and a self-serve café offering food and beverage options selected for post game recovery. “Our goal is to provide welcoming spaces for our residents and visitors. That may mean something different for each person,” Langlois said. “The addi tional amenities are the result of feedback we’ve received since opening the Community Center.” Excitement continues to build ahead of the facili ty’s summer opening. For players who have been lining up for court time, the new center represents more than expansion — it represents investment. “This shows how much Sterling Heights cares about the community. It’s very generous,” said Chris Jamiel, 22. “They pay atten tion to what people like.” “What a step forward to build this facility with all these upgrades,”Wilczynski added. “Sterling Heights is a great central place to be. I really do love this city.” If pickleball’s growth is any indication, the sound of paddles meeting plastic will only grow louder — now in a space designed to elevate the experience for everyone.

Athletic Hub 35630 Van Dyke Ave. Memorial Day through Labor Day Hours M/T/W/F 9 a.m.-7 p.m., TH & SAT 9 a.m.-5 p.m., SUN closed Free/$5 Additional fees apply for programs and rentals.

grew up playing racquet sports but began feeling the strain on his joints in recent years. Pickleball of fered the perfect alterna tive — competitive, social and easier on the body. “This is the greatest thing to play. It’s a lot of fun and you don’t hurt yourself doing it,” he said. “I’ve never heard an argument or bad discussion here. It’s a great environment.” The Sterling Heights Athletic Hub features nine pickleball courts and six table tennis tables de signed for both competi tive and recreational play. What sets the space apart, however, are its details. State-of-the-art acoustic systems and sound-absorb ing materials help manage noise between courts, while Laykold playing surfaces provide added cushioning to support joint health and enhance comfort. The facility will also uti lize USA Pickleball’s rating system, allowing players to group themselves by skill level during drop-in sessions and ensuring more balanced, competi tive games. “Without a doubt, com petition drives me,” said Thuan Tran, 52, a 4.0-rated player. “You play with peo ple at different levels, but I still have to try my hardest.

dents can participate in daily drop-in play at no cost, while non-residents pay a $5 daily fee. Lessons, league play, tournaments and special events will require pre-registration at an additional cost. Beyond gameplay, the Sterling Heights Athletic Hub was designed to be more than an athletic facility — it is positioned to become a community hub for generations. Amenities include a meeting and par

That said, I’ve seen a lot of players who come here as beginners and improve really quickly.” Randall Dolendino, 21, is one of those beginners. He started playing just over a month ago and now regularly attends drop-in games, welcoming advice from more sea soned players. “All the people that play in Sterling Heights are real ly friendly,” he said. “People help me with rules and strategy, and I try to apply it every day when I practice.” Sterling Heights resi

“ Our goal is to provide welcoming spaces for our residents and visitors. That may mean something different for each person.” KYLE LANGLOIS PARKS & RECREATION DIRECTOR

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sterlingheights.gov