Pickleball Excitement Growing at the Milwaukee Athletic Club

The MAC has a rich history of racket sports as a part of its athletic culture. Now, with the help and enthusiasm of new member Victor Gainor, Pickleball is taking center court. 

Vic is also a new resident of the MAC, having arrived here directly from Costa Rica. He’s a native New Yorker and lived most of his life in New York City or at the New Jersey Shore. He had his first tennis lesson at five years old and he hasn’t stopped playing racquet sports since. He’s also been a member of the New York Athletic Club for 40+ years and understands and appreciates the world of private clubs. 

Vic got involved in MAC Pickleball during the 2023 League and now plays regularly. He began coaching beginner clinics for members in November. These four-week clinics are focused on learning about the game and how to play – covering rules, strokes, positioning, shot selection and partner communication.  A second round of clinics is currently underway.

“The most important thing people learn is that MAC Pickleball is all about fun and socialization and meeting other players who share the enjoyment of being on the court!” says Vic. 

Pickleball has exploded in the US over the last decade. “For the demographic groups that grew up when tennis was booming in the ‘60’s, 70’s and beyond, and might have lost a step or two, Pickleball is a great way to remain on the court,” says Vic. “Also, no matter your age, it’s fairly easy to learn and play quickly. It’s also a great way to get moving and socialize at the same time. Who doesn’t love all that?!” 

Did you know there’s a Milwaukee-based Pickleball team on the sports’ USA Pro Tour? They’re called the Milwaukee Mashers and they were formed in 2021!

Look out for more information about the MAC Pickleball Club that will include meetings, games and socials in the weekly newsletter and MAC Life. 

If you’re interested in playing Pickleball at the MAC, hourly reservations are available Saturdays from 1:30 - 7:00pm and Sunday from 8am - 7pm.

Or, if you’re looking to meet other Pickleball enthusiasts, attend an open play with one of  these groups:

Ladies –  Saturday from 1 - 3pm 

Mens – Saturday from 3 - 4pm 

Mixed – Sunday from 7:30 - 9:00 am 

Aside from Pickleball, what is Vic’s favorite thing about the MAC and Milwaukee?  “I’ve found Milwaukee to be a wonderful city,” he said. “The arts and culture are robust, dining options are, too, and the Lakefront is spectacular! Roaming around Summerfest was awesome as well.”

Vic says he’s also enjoyed the friendly welcomes, the strong sense of community and the variety of fitness options here at the MAC. “When I first got here and didn’t know anyone, I started working out with Klae – he’s just terrific! I also swim fairly regularly and even use the staircase as an option. I’ll walk down to the lobby from my apartment and then up to the roof and back down.”  His favorite way to unwind is get a massage with Kristen Uribe, which he calls a “A surreally relaxing experience.” 

Another fun, new offering at the MAC is Ping Pong. Dr. Scott Glidden helped to create and organize the MAC’s Ping Pong Club (and coincidentally, has also been helping to keep Vic mobile and on the court after hip replacement surgery). Stop in on Thursday evenings from 6-8 p.m in the Olympic Ballroom for some friendly competition at the tables. There’s no reservation required.