ATHOL — American Legion Post 149 may be small, but bar manager Marlene Engdahl is making sure it has a big impact.

Engdahl has been looking for ways to bring more people through Post 149’s doors since the pandemic left them struggling.

“Like all bars, restaurants and private clubs, we had to close,” Engdahl said.

About a year ago, Engdahl had her big idea: Bring the popular sport of pickleball to Athol by building a court on Post 149’s property.

There was one problem: the project would need to be donation-funded. At the beginning, Engdahl met one “no” after the other.

But she didn't give up.

“I don’t like the word ‘no,’” Engdahl said. “I’m a Gemini. ... when we say we’re going to do something, we do it.”

After a few months, the pieces began falling into place.

A member of her church’s congregation that owns an excavation company volunteered their time, then a concrete company donated labor and materials. More donations began pouring in.

“Really, it was an act of God,” Engdahl said. “Basically, within two weeks, it all came together.”

Now, the pickleball court — painted in red, white and blue — is set to open Saturday, complete with a ribbon-cutting celebration, free food and a dunk tank.

Engdahl hopes the pickleball court will further her vision of making Post 149 a gathering place.

“We’re trying to be more than a bar. We’re really here for the veterans to get out and have fun,” Engdahl said.

She believes pickleball is a way to accomplish just that.

“They say that pickleball is one of the best sports for retired or disabled veterans,” Engdahl said.

Engdahl said the court wouldn’t have been possible without the help of local companies and people.

“This is for the community of Athol,” Engdahl said.

Engdahl is still seeking donations to put up a fence around the court. To donate, contact Engdahl via The Club at American Legion Post 149’s Facebook page.