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Popular sporting goods chain brings entertainment venue to Glendale

Dick's House of Sport Set to Open in Glendale This October, Bringing Interactive Retail Experience to West Valley

GLENDALE, Ariz. — Sports enthusiasts in the West Valley are in for a treat this fall as Dick's Sporting Goods prepares to unveil its latest House of Sport location in Glendale. The grand opening is slated for mid-October, transforming a portion of the Arrowhead Towne Center into a sprawling, interactive hub for athletes and families alike. This new store represents a significant expansion for the Pittsburgh-based retailer, which has been rolling out its experiential "House of Sport" concept across the country to blend shopping with hands-on activities.

The Glendale House of Sport will occupy a massive 100,000-square-foot space, making it one of the largest in Dick's portfolio. Unlike traditional sporting goods stores, this venue is designed to be more than just a place to buy gear—it's an immersive destination where visitors can test products in real-time. Imagine stepping inside and immediately spotting a 40-foot rock climbing wall, complete with auto-belay systems for safe ascents. Adjacent to that, a multi-sport turf field will allow kids and adults to practice soccer drills, football throws, or even host pickup games. For baseball and softball fans, state-of-the-art batting cages equipped with HitTrax technology will provide instant feedback on swing speed, exit velocity, and launch angles, helping players refine their skills on the spot.

Golf aficionados won't be left out either. The store will feature a putting green and a golf simulator bay, where shoppers can virtually play famous courses while trying out the latest clubs from brands like TaylorMade and Callaway. There's even a running track encircling parts of the store, outfitted with gait analysis tools to help customers find the perfect pair of running shoes. These interactive elements are central to the House of Sport ethos, which aims to foster a sense of community and encourage physical activity right within the retail environment.

Dick's Sporting Goods first introduced the House of Sport concept in 2020, starting with a flagship location in Victor, New York. Since then, the company has opened similar stores in states like Texas, Colorado, and Florida, each tailored to local interests. The Glendale site marks the first in Arizona, a strategic move given the state's booming population and year-round outdoor lifestyle. "We're thrilled to bring this innovative retail experience to the Phoenix metro area," said Lauren Hobart, president and CEO of Dick's Sporting Goods, in a recent press release. "Glendale's vibrant community and proximity to major sports venues make it an ideal spot for us to connect with athletes of all levels."

Local officials are equally excited about the economic boost. Glendale Mayor Jerry Weiers highlighted the potential job creation and increased foot traffic to Arrowhead Towne Center during a city council meeting last month. "This isn't just a store; it's a destination that will draw families from across the Valley," Weiers said. "We're expecting it to generate hundreds of jobs, from sales associates to activity coordinators, and contribute significantly to our local economy." Indeed, Dick's has already begun hiring for the location, with positions ranging from retail staff to certified climbing instructors. The company plans to employ around 200 people full-time, with additional seasonal hires during peak periods like the holidays.

The store's location at Arrowhead Towne Center, a bustling mall anchored by Macy's and JCPenney, positions it perfectly for accessibility. Situated near the Loop 101 freeway, it's easily reachable from Phoenix, Peoria, and Surprise. This prime spot also aligns with Glendale's growing reputation as a sports and entertainment hub. The city is home to State Farm Stadium, which hosts the Arizona Cardinals and major events like the Super Bowl, as well as the Gila River Arena for hockey and concerts. Adding a House of Sport could further solidify Glendale's appeal to sports-minded residents and tourists.

Beyond the physical attractions, the Glendale House of Sport will offer a wide array of merchandise, from apparel and footwear to equipment for sports like hiking, cycling, and water activities—perfect for Arizona's desert adventures. Expect to find exclusive partnerships with brands such as Nike, Under Armour, and The North Face, along with Dick's own private labels like CALIA for women's activewear and DSG for budget-friendly options. The store will also include a customization station for personalizing jerseys, cleats, and other gear, adding a fun, bespoke element to the shopping experience.

Community engagement is a big focus for this opening. Dick's has partnered with local organizations, including the Glendale Youth Sports League and Arizona State University's athletic programs, to host events and clinics. Opening weekend will feature free activities like climbing wall challenges, batting cage sessions, and meet-and-greets with local athletes. "We want to inspire the next generation of sports lovers," said store manager Alex Rivera, a Glendale native and former high school baseball coach. "By providing these resources, we're not just selling products; we're building a healthier, more active community."

This expansion comes at a time when retail is evolving rapidly, with consumers craving experiences over mere transactions. Dick's has reported strong performance from its House of Sport locations, with higher foot traffic and sales per square foot compared to standard stores. In fact, the concept has helped the company rebound from pandemic-era challenges, as people seek safe, engaging ways to stay active. For Glendale, this could mean a ripple effect, boosting nearby businesses like restaurants and hotels around Arrowhead Towne Center.

Residents have mixed but mostly positive reactions. Sarah Jimenez, a mother of two from nearby Peoria, said she's looking forward to the family-friendly aspects. "My kids are into soccer and climbing, so this will be a great weekend spot without driving all the way to Phoenix," she told azcentral.com. On the other hand, some locals worry about increased traffic congestion, especially during peak shopping seasons. City planners have assured that infrastructure improvements, including additional parking and traffic signals, are in place to handle the influx.

As October approaches, anticipation is building. Dick's plans a ribbon-cutting ceremony with celebrity guests—rumors suggest appearances by Arizona Cardinals players or Diamondbacks alumni. The store will operate seven days a week, with extended hours on weekends to accommodate after-school and evening visitors. For those eager to get a sneak peek, Dick's is hosting virtual tours on its website and social media channels, showcasing the layout and features.

In a broader sense, the arrival of Dick's House of Sport underscores Glendale's transformation from a quiet suburb to a dynamic part of the Phoenix metropolitan area. With its blend of retail innovation and community focus, this new venue promises to be more than a store—it's poised to become a cornerstone of local recreation. Whether you're a weekend warrior lacing up for a hike in the nearby White Tank Mountains or a young athlete dreaming of the big leagues, the Glendale House of Sport aims to equip and inspire. Mark your calendars for October; the West Valley's sports scene is about to level up.

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Read the Full AZ Central Article at:
[ https://www.azcentral.com/story/news/local/glendale/2025/07/23/dicks-house-of-sport-opens-glendale-october/85330527007/ ]