We had the pleasure of sitting down with some of the best pickleball minds in the country at PickleCon 2024 in Kansas City, including the dynamic duo from Pickleball Management Group. In this Interview, Charlie Hauser and Scott Winters talk about the problems that clubs face with a growing industry, and share insights on how clubs can thrive as successful businesses, not just sports facilities.
The holidays are here, and pickleball fans are out on the courts, making memories and (let’s be honest) probably hinting about what’s on their wish lists. For shops and clubs, it’s the perfect time to spotlight giftable gear that players will actually use—whether they’re seasoned players or newbies discovering the game. Stocking up on these small but essential accessories can make holiday shopping easier for your customers and help them find that perfect pickleball surprise.
Planning a pickleball tournament is tough. It takes a lot of coordination and planning, and it can be a big money maker for your pickleball club. Big tournaments can also bring the eyes of the community to you, encouraging new players to pick up a paddle.
But what happens if you have everything set up: players are pumped, fans are excited, your staff is ready to go…and it starts pouring?
As the fastest growing sport in the United States, Pickleball is quickly becoming the go-to game for athletes of all ages. Over 48 million adults are reported to have played at least one game of pickleball, and most of those players have gone on to become habitual pickleballers. And as increasing numbers of novice players are beginning to master the fundamentals, there is a growing desire among experienced players to take their game to the next level. As a result, we’ve observed more and more players who are seeking to refine their skills and elevate their game with innovative training tools and methodologies.
Pickleball is addictive ! I know because I am an addict and most of my friends that play are as well. What a great addiction though. The benefits of the game go beyond the physical as there is the mental, emotional and social aspect that become an important and integral part of a person’s lifestyle.
As the senior population in the United States continues to grow, pickleball clubs have a unique opportunity to tap into this expanding market. With 54.1 million adults aged 65 or older in 2019, comprising 16% of the American population, seniors are the fastest-growing demographic. This demographic shift presents pickleball clubs with new challenges and opportunities. Here are three strategies for pickleball clubs to capitalize on the burgeoning senior market:
