Duluth is getting a new indoor sports complex in the Oneota neighborhood, set to open soon. This facility, called Elite Sports Complex, will allow athletes to train and compete year-round.
Inside, you’ll find five pickleball courts, six batting cages, pitching mounds, a basketball court, and two turf lanes for sports like lacrosse, soccer, and football. There’s also a restaurant and a retail space on the upper level to grab snacks and buy gear.
Co-owners Herb Gibson and Aaron Larson signed the lease in December for the complex, located at 4510 W. First St. The building was previously used by Essentia Health before it moved.
The vision for this complex came from both Gibson’s love for baseball and Larson’s passion for lacrosse. Larson will manage the facility while Gibson will handle sales and logistics. Gibson is also the general manager of the Duluth Huskies, and Larson has a background in military and business, operating Dr. Juice, a local hunting and fishing product company.
According to Larson, there’s a real need for this space. “Last year, we struggled to book indoor turf time,” he said. “We could only get three hours.”
The complex is a $1 million investment and covers 40,000 square feet for sports activities and another 10,000 for retail. Integrity Builders is overseeing the construction. So far, the pickleball courts are done, and they are currently building out the restaurant.
Elite Pro Shop will offer various athletic gear and apparel, while fans can also get school merchandise through a partnership with Big Frog of Duluth. There will be a range of food options at The Kitchen, which is inspired by pickleball terminology and overlooks the main area.
A soft opening is planned for February 1, pending city approval. The complex will operate from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with pickleball courts opening earlier at 6 a.m. They will offer individual and association memberships along with lessons for all skill levels.
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