Northern Kentucky’s newest destination for sports, recreation and community connection is now open.
The Bend NKY celebrated its grand opening on Oct. 17.
Located at 1930 Conrad Lane in Hebron, it brings together indoor pickleball, soccer, youth athletic development, rotating food trucks and social gathering spaces in one location designed for people of all ages and abilities.
The vision for The Bend began when Brad Trauth saw a multi-use bike path being developed through property he owned for several years. Recognizing the opportunity to build upon that connection, he envisioned an active lifestyle destination that would bring people together through sports, recreation and shared experiences.
What began as an idea inspired by a community trail has evolved into a sport and social destination designed to connect families, friends, athletes and neighbors.
“Seeing the bike path come through the property sparked the idea of creating something that could connect the community in a bigger way,” said Brad Trauth, Co-Founder of The Bend NKY and Broker/Owner of Trauth Property Group in a press release. “We wanted to build more than courts and fields. Our vision was to create an active lifestyle destination where people could come together, stay active and build meaningful connections. The Bend is about bringing people together through sports, recreation and community, and we’re excited to see that vision come to life.”
One destination, multiple ways to play
Hawk’s Court Pickleball: Features seven dedicated indoor pickleball courts offering recreational and competitive play, leagues, clinics, lessons and court rentals for all skill levels. The facility is led by General Manager and Partner Nate Matthews, a professional pickleball instructor and former APP and PPA touring professional.
Beyond the courts, Hawk’s Court features “The Nest,” a bar and social gathering area with televisions and an attached outdoor patio where guests can relax, socialize and watch the action. A mezzanine viewing area overlooks both the pickleball courts and indoor soccer fields, creating a shared spectator experience.
Soccer at The Bend: Features two indoor, walled 5v5 turf soccer fields designed for year-round play, including recreational and competitive leagues, tournaments, training and field rentals. An additional outdoor 9v9 turf soccer field is scheduled to open later in 2026, expanding opportunities for multi-sport turf field practices, games and competitive play.
The soccer operation is led by General Manager and Partner Dave McIver, who brings extensive experience in youth and competitive soccer development. McIver previously served 13 years in various roles with Kings Hammer Soccer Club and held leadership positions with Kentucky Youth Soccer Association.
UPfield Soccer: The Bend’s youth soccer programming partner, introduces children to soccer as early as age 2 through progressive programming designed to build coordination, confidence and fundamental soccer skills. Its offerings include introductory classes, youth leagues, camps, clinics and developmental training that encourage children to grow both on and off the field.
UPfield Soccer is a nationally established organization founded by Kory Miles, a former collegiate soccer standout at Auburn University Montgomery. Miles owns and operates UPfield programs in eight markets across seven states. And through its partnership with The Bend, UPfield will provide Northern Kentucky families with opportunities to introduce their children to the sport in a welcoming, energetic environment. The partnership supports The Bend’s broader vision of connecting the community through sports, recreation and active lifestyles.
In addition to its sports facilities, The Bend offers indoor event spaces for birthday celebrations, team gatherings, corporate outings and private events. Rotating food trucks will provide dining options for guests, complementing the beverage and social experience at The Nest.
The Oct. 17 grand opening marks the beginning of a larger vision for The Bend, with additional amenities planned over the coming months.
An outdoor 9v9 turf soccer field is scheduled to open later this year, expanding the facility’s soccer offerings beyond its two indoor fields.
Looking further ahead, The Backyard at The Bend, an outdoor beer garden and social gathering space, is anticipated to open in mid-2027. Designed to further enhance The Bend’s community-focused atmosphere, The Backyard will offer a welcoming outdoor setting where visitors can relax, socialize and connect beyond the courts and fields.
