The newest play area in Capital Mall isn't just for children.
A day before the new SSM Health Children's Experience celebrated its ribbon-cutting following the mall's Christmas parade Saturday, Knockerball Mid-MO opened its first fledgling retail location Friday evening.
Knockerball, also called "bubble soccer," allows players of all ages to participate in a high-contact game cushioned by the inflatable plastic bubble surrounding them. The local franchise opened in summer 2015, renting out Knockerball equipment for community events and private parties.
"It's something different and new and fresh, and it reaches obviously a different demographic as well," said Knockerball Mid-MO owner Donnell Rehagen. "Here we are in the winter months when there's less things for kids to do, so I thought it would be a great time to open a store while the kids are home for Christmas vacation."
Knockerball Mid-MO, located in Capital Mall's center court next to Victoria's Secret (former location of Pro Image Sports), will be open primarily on weekends - Friday through Sunday - until local schools' Christmas breaks begin. From then through early January, Rehagen plans to operate the Knockerball store daily during regular mall business hours.
"We're going to play it by ear," he said. "If there's a lot of interest in us being open more, we'll be open more."
Knockerball Mid-MO's lease at the mall extends through the end of February, Rehagen said, but if it's received well, he would consider operating the retail location year-round.
With 12-15 Knockerballs available, open play times will invite mall customers to spend 15 minutes in the game for $5 or purchase all-day access for $20.
Rehagen said even young children can enjoy Knockerball with a parent present to help them roll around.
While at Capital Mall, the Knockerball space and equipment can also be rented for private events.
For more information about Knockerball Mid-MO, visit knockerballmidmo.com.
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