We are not quitting. We are adjusting.

May 11th, 2025, was our last day of operations at what we had hoped would be our first permanent location here in Houston.

Here’s what happened and what is coming next for us ….

When we stepped into 2955 Gulf Fwy, we believed it would be a viable long-term home for our vision. Despite our plans to move from a pop-up to a permanent location here, we discovered serious and unresolved landlord-related issues with the building. These included things like unpermitted and non-operating fire safety systems, default, and missing building approvals that prevented us from operating fully or legally. And they would continue to impact us without a promised and guaranteed timeline. These issues are not minor; they are foundational for us as a business.

We’ve always said we don’t talk badly about people or places and will stay true to that here. But with that said, these are facts, not emotional or subjective statements. After spending weeks trying to find a resolution, staying current on rent, and negotiating reasonable terms to allow us to stay, we were left with a choice: compromise our standards and values or step away from the wrong partnership and building.

We chose to walk away, not out of failure, but out of integrity. We want to be very clear about something. We are not quitting. We are adjusting.

Pickleball courts are a commodity. Community is, and always will be, our purpose. The space may not have supported our vision, but you have been clear that you will continue to support us as we find a better path forward.

Together, we transformed a lifeless space for CrossFit into a vibrant space for true community. From the first open play to the final rally on May 11th, it was never about the walls or the floor but about the people who filled it.

Someone else might try to replace or replicate what we started in that building, which may work if you believe pickleball is just about courts. We’ll let them make that mistake on their own. For us and this community, we’ll keep holding fast to what we know this is really about: you. Four walls at 2955 Gulf Fwy don’t define our purpose.

Purpose > Place

We’re already working on permanent locations that reflect the whole vision. Society Yards was born in our hearts. It was first built at 2955, but it is bigger than either of those things now.

These doors closed, but the backyard spirit still lives on in all of us no matter where we are.

In your corner,

Justin & Christian