From the Archives: This story originally ran in the January/February 2025 issue of Pickleball Club Magazine. Details reflect the club at the time of publication.
The quality of your employees can make or break your members’ experience, from welcoming new players to fostering a thriving, supportive pickleball community. But how do you find the right people who will not only fit but thrive in your unique environment?
Key Takeaways
- Epic Pickleball Club Founder & CEO Perry Leyden has developed a proven framework for hiring standout employees.
- Leyden’s philosophy, shaped by his background at Starbucks and the fitness industry, centers on creating and fostering community.
- The five attributes the leadership team looks for: leadership, communication, driving energy, a general understanding of pickleball and integrity.
- Employees don’t need to be professional players, but they should understand the basics and help beginners feel confident and welcome.
- Your employees are your club’s greatest ambassadors, so choose wisely.
Epic Pickleball Club’s Founder & CEO Perry Leyden, a leader in the pickleball community, has developed a proven framework for hiring standout employees. With one location in Highlands Ranch, CO, opened in March 2023, and a new location in Littleton CO, just newly opened in January 2025, the club emphasizes creating vibrant gathering spaces for pickleball players of all types. Both locations also feature several on-site professional players for teaching and training, making Epic Pickleball Club a premier destination for players of all levels.
Epic Pickleball Club’s Highlands Ranch location features 10 indoor professional-grade courts, a full-service bar, and spaces designed for corporate events and community gatherings. The club also has an ambassador program to connect with local players and encourage membership. Leyden’s philosophy, shaped by his background at Starbucks and the Fitness Industry, emphasizes fostering community. As Perry says, “‘If you build it, they will come’ doesn’t work; you must create and foster an amazing community at your club and overcome obstacles to people coming in the front door”.
Here are the five winning traits and attributes that the leadership team is looking for when building their team:
1. Leadership: Commanding Presence and Go-Getter Mentality
Great employees are natural leaders who inspire confidence and take initiative. They should have a commanding presence that motivates those around them and the will to tackle challenges head-on. Look for candidates who:
- Take ownership of tasks and responsibilities.
- Inspire and lead by example.
- Demonstrate problem-solving skills in high-pressure situations.
- They need to be agile and adapt to change.
Strong leadership ensures your club’s operations run smoothly and effectively.
2. Communication: Clear and Effective
In a busy club environment, clear communication is essential. Employees need to convey information efficiently and effectively, whether they’re giving instructions to players or coordinating with teammates. Ideal candidates should:
- Articulate needs and expectations clearly.
- Listen actively and provide thoughtful responses.
- Foster understanding and collaboration among members and staff.
Effective communication keeps your club running like a well-oiled machine.
3. Driving Energy: Big Facilities Require Big Energy
Operating a pickleball club is dynamic and fast-paced, and your employees need to match that energy. Candidates with high energy levels can:
- Stay motivated and focused throughout busy shifts.
- Bring enthusiasm to their interactions with members while having FUN.
- Handle the physical and mental demands of the job.
Employees with driving energy create an invigorating atmosphere that members will love.
4. General Understanding of Pickleball
Employees don’t need to be professional players, but they should have a solid grasp of the basics. This knowledge helps them assist members effectively and engage with the pickleball community. Look for candidates who:
- Understand pickleball rules and gameplay.
- Show enthusiasm for learning more about the sport while being curious.
- Can help beginners feel confident and welcome.
A general understanding of pickleball ensures employees can exceed the members’ and visitors’ expectations.
5. Integrity: High Standards and Accountability
Integrity is the cornerstone of a trustworthy team. Employees with strong moral principles will:
- Treat members and coworkers with respect and fairness.
- Take responsibility for their actions and decisions.
- Uphold the club’s values and standards.
High-integrity employees and leaders build trust and set a positive example for your community.
Remember, your employees are your club’s greatest ambassadors. Choose wisely.
Follow Epic Pickleball Club on Facebook and Instagram, or visit epicpickleballclub.com.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Epic Pickleball Club look for when hiring employees?
Five attributes: leadership, clear and effective communication, driving energy, a general understanding of pickleball, and integrity.
Do pickleball club employees need to be strong players?
No. Employees don’t need to be professional players, but they should understand the rules and gameplay and be able to help beginners feel confident and welcome.
Why does energy matter for pickleball club staff?
Operating a pickleball club is dynamic and fast-paced. Employees with driving energy stay focused through busy shifts and create an invigorating atmosphere that members will love.
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