Q&A with Frank Lawrence of LRAC

Having been open for only 45 days, Little Rock Athletic Club’s (LRAC) Pickleball facility is already turning heads, both in aesthetics and management. Frank Lawrence, CEO at LRAC, gives us a glimpse of his story as he spearheaded the transition from temporary courts to permanent, and building a state-of-the-art pickleball facility from the ground up. This pickleball facility is a testament to LRAC’s dedication to providing members with diverse and engaging fitness options. With soaring demand for pickleball, LRAC aims to cater to both seasoned players and beginners looking to explore this rapidly growing sport. Key features of the club include climate controlled courts, professional coaching services, modern amenities, social events, and membership benefits.

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Pavilion of Pickleball Membership Soars as a Result of These Strategies 

A thriving pickleball club in Knoxville, TN has utilized unique tactics to transform curious strangers into loyal members. Established in 2020, the Pavilion of Pickleball has exploded in membership numbers and interest since its founding and now possesses over 1,000 active club members. Uniting the surrounding community and creating personal engagement in sports clubs are crucial steps to success, and are beneficial to the club and its members alike.

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Mix and Match: Pickleball Mixers at Sunriver Resort

Located just minutes from Bend, Oregon, Sunriver Resort spans over 3,300 acres in the Pacific Northwest. Its unique wilderness setting offers a variety of recreational activities from golf, kayaking, horseback riding, and more. In August of 2023, ten outdoor Pickleball courts were added, and eight more indoor courts followed a month later. Director of Sales and Marketing Lindsay Borkowski says, “In the past, pickleball at the resort was played on temporary courts, and there was organized play just two afternoons a week.” At the time, members of the fitness center had access to the courts, but now players can opt for the new pickleball membership offered by the resort.

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The Drop Pickleball Club: Success Starts With Quality Coaches

Located in Tacoma, Washington, The Drop Pickleball Club has quickly found success in helping their members become well trained. The new establishment knew from the very beginning that it was imperative to bring on experienced coaches to kickstart their program. Kristen Sexton from The Drop, says, “we started putting thought into our coaches very early on in our process. We were fortunate enough to have a legend of the game in our area.” Brian Ashworth, a pickleball pro with a decade of playing and teaching experience, was approached early on by Sexton and her staff.  “…[Brian] got to watch us struggle to actually bring our club to life, and he was ready to roll on day one.” Since then, The Drop Pickleball Club has taken on one other coach, Jim Bouchard, who came to them as well. 

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