Sentry Foundation supports new state-of-the-art pickleball complex in Plover

Plover, Wis., (February 6, 2025) — With a $500,000 donation from the Sentry Insurance Foundation, the Village of Plover and the Heart of Wisconsin Pickleball Association (HOWPA) today announced plans to open a new world-class pickleball facility in Plover, Wisconsin, this summer. Named the Sentry Pickleball Complex at Lake Pacawa Park, this state-of-the-art venue will be built with inclusivity and accessibility in mind, featuring 12 fully wheelchair-accessible, lighted courts designed for players of all ages and abilities.

Designed to be a best-in-class facility, the Sentry Pickleball Complex will include:

• 12 fully accessible courts with gate access to each court

• A spacious 35,568-square-foot playing area

• Wind direction flags on fences

• Translucent windscreens for clear spectator viewing

• Ample space between court baselines and fences

• A shade structure, gathering pavilion, and seating options

Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the country, with participation skyrocketing by over 150% in the past three years, according to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). The Sentry Pickleball Complex is poised to attract players and visitors from across the Midwest, further fueling the sport’s momentum and benefiting the local community.

“This project has been years in the making and is a testament to the dedication of HOWPA members and the Village of Plover,” said Steve Kunst, Village of Plover Administrator. “The Sentry Pickleball Complex will be a fantastic addition to Lake Pacawa Park, serving as a valuable asset for our community.”

“We set out to create more than just a collection of courts—we envisioned a community hub where people could come together, connect, and grow through pickleball,” said Jay Johnson, Board member and Fundraising Committee Co-Chair of the Heart of Wisconsin Pickleball Association. “Thanks to the incredible support of Sentry Insurance and our dedicated partners, along with the tireless efforts of the HOWPA Board and Fundraising Committee, this vision is now a reality. The Sentry Pickleball Complex will not only host tournaments but inspire a new generation of players and build lasting connections within our community. We’re proud to see this dream come to life.”

The complex complements other charitable investments Sentry has made in the Lake Pacawa area, including $1.5 million to the Sentry Curling Center, $50,000 to the Lake Pacawa Accessible Park, and $100,000 to the Food & Farm Exploration Center.