MACON, Ga. – A massive new indoor pickleball facility in Macon, Ga., has officially been named Rhythm and Rally Sports and Events.
The state-of-the-art complex will feature 32 courts: 16 upstairs and 16 downstairs, with four pods of four courts on each level. The 150,000-square-foot pickleball facility will offer climate-controlled courts, day-use lockers, showers, and a pro shop. Rhythm and Rally Sports and Events will welcome local players while also attracting state, regional, and national tournaments.
“We began booking events in this new facility long before construction was complete,” says Gary Wheat, CEO of Visit Macon. “Macon continues to position itself as a premier tourism destination–which is evident by it being named one of the best destinations to visit in 2024 by Travel+Leisure Magazine. The sports (and especially pickleball) market is excited, and we look forward to attracting many new groups, events, and regional tournaments to this state-of-the-art sports complex with so many amenities. These events will contribute millions of dollars to the Macon economy.”
The Sports Facilities Companies (SFC) will oversee the management and operation of Rhythm and Rally.
“As the fastest growing sport in America, pickleball facilities are in high demand everywhere,” said SFC vice president of venue management Patrick O’Brien. “Macon-Bibb and Visit Macon have done a tremendous job transforming the venue into a world-class pickleball facility. We are confident that Rhythm and Rally Sports and Events will bring significant economic impact to the community, attracting visitors from far and wide.”
John Roberts–a Macon resident since 2007–has been selected as general manager at Rhythm and Rally Sports and Events. He has served as the director of finance and operations at Historic Macon after a 15-year tenure as the senior associate commissioner for operations and chief financial officer at the Atlantic Sun Conference (ASUN). A pickleball enthusiast and USA Pickleball ambassador, Roberts has been organizing tournaments across the southeastern United States since 2019.
“I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity to manage this world-class facility. I’m delighted to use my experience in athletics and help strengthen and grow pickleball here,” says Roberts. “I’m passionate about pickleball, and I know first-hand what it means to this community. This venue will help bring people from all over to Macon for tournaments, conventions, and many other events. I’m excited to have a key role in enhancing and revitalizing the Eisenhower Business Improvement District and helping Macon build a happier and healthier community.”
