You’ll find it in the northwest corner of Toronto, tucked between quiet neighbourhoods and plazas. Founded by brothers Dylan and Spencer Janes, The Jar Pickleball Club (900 Caledonia Road, Unit 5, M6B 3Y1) opened its doors in January of this year, and has since provided a haven for enthusiasts of this growing sport.
Speaking about the club’s origins, they expressed that “We really wanted to do something we could get excited about and be our own bosses.”
Their vision took shape as they identified a gap in the market: indoor pickleball. With encouragement from their father and a keen eye for business opportunities, the Janes brothers embarked on their journey to establish The Jar.
Pickleball's rapid growth played a pivotal role, as Dylan explained. “It's a really fun sport, easy to learn, and can be played by all ages. It's the fastest growing sport in America and as people become exposed to it down south or outdoors in the summer, they want to continue playing in the winter and in Toronto the only way to do that is indoors. We believe there's a huge demand and that the sport will continue to grow and prosper.”
“Our four courts are spacious and well-lit, with the latest court surface technology.”
(Spencer Janes)
The Jar stands as a testament to their vision, offering state-of-the-art amenities tailored to enhance the pickleball experience for players of all skill levels. “Most existing indoor courts are currently shared with other sports, such as badminton and tennis, and are not ideal,” Spencer remarked. “Our four courts are spacious and well-lit, with the latest court surface technology.” The Jar ensures an unparalleled playing experience.
Yet, The Jar is more than just a pickleball venue. It's a community hub fostering connections and camaraderie among its members. The club has an elegant sauna with a HUUM DROP heater made in Estonia. There’s a cold plunge pool and a well-equipped exercise room. Even when you’re done working out, you don’t have to rush out, Dylan reminds us. “We have a kitchen with coffee, tea, cold beverages, and snacks, and, of course, high-speed Internet.”
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Beyond the facilities themselves, the Janes brothers emphasize their membership model and tailored programming that they are developing. Dylan says, “We will do everything we can to provide our members with the best possible experience they can have in playing pickleball and socializing before and after the game. We will develop our programming, teaching and special events to meet our members’ needs and priorities.”
During peak hours, The Jar buzzes with energy and excitement. “The atmosphere is electric,” Spencer exclaimed. “Everybody’s having fun. And as the club matures, members will get to know each other better and have opportunities to interact both on and off the courts.”
While they affirm it may be too early to talk about their large-scale impact on athleticism and fitness, positive impacts are already being seen.
Reflecting on their journey so far, Spencer and Dylan shared their pride in The Jar's opening weekend, when they received coverage from two local TV stations, Citytv and Global TV. And while they affirm it may be too early to talk about their large-scale impact on athleticism and fitness, positive impacts are already being seen. Spencer points to his father as an example. “At age 76 he plays a mean game of pickleball and says he is still improving his skills and fitness.”
With half of their memberships already sold, The Jar has grown very fast. Yet, Dylan remains focused on the road just ahead. “Our complete focus right now is on selling our remaining memberships and court times,” he affirmed. “We will think about expansion only after we can legitimately call the Jar a success.”
The Jar Pickleball Club is more than just a place to play. It's an exciting example of a passion for sports and the entrepreneurial spirit. With each paddle swing and every shared moment, the club will continue to leave a mark on Toronto's athletic landscape.
Become a member of The Jar Pickleball Club at thejarpickleball.com.
