Serving up Carmel’s first pickleball-focused country club

Carmel, Indiana – At Pickle On Penn (POP), a new country club opening later this year with a focus on pickleball, Ryan Atkinson, PharmD, MBA, PPR, has been named general manager and director of pickleball, and Ryan Sunderland has been selected head chef. Both positions will start in the fall of 2023.

Atkinson joins POP from the Broadmoor Country Club, where he serves as Director of Pickleball, and the Indianapolis Racquet Club, where he is a key coach. He brings to POP a strong coaching background and will be responsible for improving the programming and membership experience.

“I couldn’t be more excited about joining the amazing POP team at the ground level,” Atkinson said. “Pickleball has changed my life, not to mention this is the fastest-growing sport in the United States. I am so thankful to Kelly Bodner and The SC Bodner Company for their support and vision within the industry.”

Sunderland will manage the opening of The Kitchen at Pickle on Penn, POP’s public-facing culinary experience, using his vast experience as an executive chef and in the food and beverage sector. After developing his skills in catering, food and beverage, and hospitality administration at the Scottsdale Culinary Institute, Sunderland assisted in changing a number of restaurants. The Social Cantina in Midtown in Carmel was his most recent venture.

Eight indoor pickleball courts will be available at Pickle on Penn, Carmel’s first country club dedicated just to the sport, which will be located at 11585 N. Pennsylvania St. With its lavish amenities, mezzanine with an observation deck, and restaurant with a full kitchen and bar, POP will accommodate players of all ability levels.

“Join us at Pickle on Penn to experience the infectious energy of pickleball,” said Kelly Bodner, Owner/Managing Partner of POP. “Unleash your competitive spirit, revel in the laughter-filled moments, and embrace the warmth of a community that welcomes all with open arms.”

Regarding Pickle On Penn, POP will have eight indoor pickleball courts in addition to state-of-the-art lighting, real-time video analysis, connections with local authorities, and excellent industry programming. Regional beers, specialty beverages, and creative cuisine will all be available at The Kitchen at Pickle on Penn.