Sentry Pickleball Complex opens in Plover, welcoming players of all ages and abilities

PLOVER, Wis. (July 15, 2025) – The Village of Plover and the Heart of Wisconsin Pickleball Association (HOWPA)—with support from the Sentry Insurance Foundation—officially opened the Sentry Pickleball Complex at Lake Pacawa Park following a ribbon cutting ceremony. The state-of-the-art facility is designed with accessibility and inclusivity at its core and features 12 fully wheelchair-accessible, lighted courts.

The Sentry Pickleball Complex is the result of a community-led initiative, brought to life by a $500,000 contribution from the Sentry Insurance Foundation. Additional funding came from the Village of Plover, HOWPA members, generous donors and local business supporters, including Mullins Whey, the Plover Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, the Mendyke Family, Len Dudas Motors, Stevens Point Orthopedics, KI Mobility, and the Community Foundation of Central Wisconsin.

“Sentry is always interested in finding ways to enhance the quality of life in our community,” said Pete McPartland, Sentry Chairman and CEO. “Supporting this project makes sense for many reasons—the sport is growing quickly and it’s an activity for all ages. This complex will bring people together and have a lasting community impact for years to come.”

Funding of this project follows—and is consistent with—Sentry’s support of the Sentry Curling Center, also located in the Lake Pacawa area.

HOWPA played a pivotal role in advocating for and guiding the development of the complex. The grand opening celebrates a significant milestone for the organization and the growing pickleball community in Central Wisconsin.

“We imagined a place where anyone—regardless of experience or mobility—could play, compete, and connect in the community,” said Lynn Olstadt, President of HOWPA. “Thanks to the generous support of Sentry, the Village of Plover, and our partners, that vision is now a reality. This complex is built for everyone—from casual players to tournament competitors.”

The Sentry Pickleball Complex offers best-in-class features, including:

• 12 fully accessible courts, each with gate access

• A 35,568-square-foot playing area

• Translucent windscreens for improved visibility

• A shaded gathering pavilion and multiple seating options

As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, the complex is expected to draw players and spectators from across the Midwest—helping boost tourism and support local businesses.

The grand opening celebration included a ribbon-cutting ceremony and remarks from key project leaders, including representatives from Sentry Insurance, HOWPA, and The Village of Plover. The inaugural pickleball game was played on the Mark Trautschold Memorial Court, by Mark’s wife, Mary Trautschold, and Lynn Olstadt, Jay Johnson, and Dave Dahlinger.

The Sentry Pickleball Complex is located at Lake Pacawa Park, 3410 Hoover Avenue, Plover, WI 54467.