Issue link: http://maconmagazine.uberflip.com/i/1512887
30 maconmagazine.com | DECEMBER 2023/JANUARY 2024 BY JULIA MORRISON | PHOTOS BY DSTO MOORE CALLED THE LARGEST INDOOR FACILITY IN THE WORLD, RHYTHM AND RALLY SERVES UP A GAME-WINNING COMBINATION OF RECREATION, TOURISM, AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT The sound of change at the Macon Mall didn't start with a bang, but rather the distinctive popping noise of pickleballs lobbed over dozens of nets. The former Belk store had been silent for over a decade as one of several unoccupied retail anchors in the once vibrant shopping destination, one of many "dead malls" all over the country. Over a hundred players christened the new indoor facility, to be named Rhythm and Rally, for its first tournament in November ahead of its use by locals and visitors alike for tournaments, drop-in play, and more in January. Some Maconites might wonder why an investment in pickleball is part of a broader package of improvements Mayor Lester Miller (who was on the court himself) hopes will reinvigorate the heart of the Eisenhower commercial corridor. The bid is simple – bring enough footprint in the area, and people will shop and eat nearby. And pickleball, the fastest growing sport in America, is getting an ever-expanding footprint. Armand Burnett, assistant director for Macon-Bibb County's Parks and Recreation department, spoke at the opening. Burnett explained how the growth of pickleball has come so quickly that in only a couple of years, the department went from portable nets and taping lines down on the floor, to converting tennis courts in Tattnall Square Park, to now, needing a first-class facility like this one, considered by the organizers to be the world's largest for an indoor pickleball venue with 32 dedicated courts. "As a rec professional, we have to notice the trends that are happening, not only in our communities, but in sports and athletics nationwide," he added. Rhythm and Rally will be courting major tournaments bringing players from around the country to Macon. Central Georgia pickleball players will be able get in on the action, too. Memberships are already available for purchase. Joe McDaniel, a player who is considered one of the founders behind the Macon Pickleball movement, said at the event, "I've lived in Macon my whole life, and this is the proudest I've ever been in Macon, right here." The facility's management will be working with Visit Macon to assist with visitors and major events. Director Gary Wheat explained, "What this means as a tourism anchor for us, is that this side of town becomes a true destination for our hotels, restaurants, and businesses." The new general manager of the facility, John Roberts, agrees. "I hope this is the genesis of the revitalization of this corridor, what was once the center of commerce in the heart of Georgia," Roberts enthused. What the Macon leaders believe will be a signature advantage with the new courts at the mall is that tournaments held in the city can guarantee the organizers success, since weather-related issues o en delay or cancel play. Wheat emphasized that while these visitors are here, they will be spending money in local establishments and contributing to sales taxes. Mayor Miller is hopeful about what the sound of the pickleballs ping-ponging around the mall means, saying that "Macon is going to be the mecca of pickleball." His enthusiasm for Rhythm and Rally is clear: "You've got to have vision. You've got to take some big, bold risks, and I think that's what we've done here in Macon... What I like about pickleball is, everyone can play. It's a big, inclusive sport, and we want our team to grow, and grow, and grow." M a c o n M a l l a n d p i c k l e b a l l : Visit rhythmandrally.com for memberships and updates. L O C A L B U Z Z A match made in heaven Thwack! Pictured: Nancy Owens, Joe McDaniel, Warren Selby, Jr., and Armand Burnett