Happy Trails’ Classic Hospitality Fosters Long-Term Success

The Happy Trails Pickleball Club, located in Surprise, Arizona, is not only a largely successful club sporting over 500 members, but the club is also integral to the history of pickleball. In 2001, pickleball was introduced to the Arizona Senior Olympics for the first time, and Happy Trails got the honor of hosting the event which boasted over 100 participants. Now, this historical club contributes to the sport by hosting the annual Happy Trails Classic Pickleball Tournament. The Classic is played on 10 lighted, outdoor courts and invites players 50 and older between the 3.0 and 5.0 skill level to come play in possibly the most long-enduring tournament in the area. The tournament has been around for 18 years and has recently hosted over 400 participants.

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Gwinnett Pickleball Builds Community and Increases Competition With Ladder Leagues  

Every pickleball club has a favorite event, and likewise, most players have a version of pickleball that they prefer. For the Gwinnett Pickleball Club, their preferred way of playing pickleball is through ladder leagues. Ladder leagues are at the very core of Gwinnett Pickleball’s life and culture. Brian Garrett, the owner of the club, goes so far as to say, “Ladder leagues are  the heart of my club!” Ladder leagues have fostered both strong community and engaging competition in a cost-effective manner at Gwinnett.  

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DETA Pickleball: How Fundamentals Lead to Member’s Confidence on the Court

DETA Pickleball is a space for players of all levels to build their confidence on the court. Mastering fundamental skills is essential for members to feel competent in their abilities and maintain composure during challenging moments. Club Director and Head Pro Stéphane Jolicoeur says, “Having solid fundamentals gives a player a lot of confidence because they know that they can rely on going back to the basics to regain or gain the necessary consistency that will help them get back in the match if they are not playing well.” These fundamentals are currently offered in an “Introduction to Pickleball” class where beginners are taught the rules of the game. They get familiar with the ball and paddle and go through a few easy drills to get used to the movements. There’s also a “basics” class for people who already play the sport. Players practice the different strokes, learn where to position themselves on the court, and grasp the flow of the game.

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How The Yards Market Themselves to Attract Corporate Functions and Events 

The Yards is a unique location that mixes sports with entertainment. In addition to their golf course, pickleball courts, and tennis center, there are three event venues that host a wide range of occasions. They have an impressive track record of hosting corporate events, in particular, and have successfully marketed themselves to draw in big names like Barstool Sports Pickleball Open, Tim Tebow Foundation, and the Jacksonville Jaguars, to name a few. Avery White, Social Media & Communications Coordinator, says, “We use a mix of digital and print advertising, social media marketing, email campaigns, and business directories such as Yelp. Several of our leads also come from word-of-mouth, whether that be through a networking group or event, a previous event guest, or groups referring us to their friends and local partners.” Additionally, the team created a website that focuses solely on events and can be found in the “events” tab on their main page. It has made it easier for potential leads to get directly to an inquiry form and any streamlined event information. 

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Pickleball Players are in Their Training Era: How Clubs Can Adapt to Customers Seeking to Improve Their Game 

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. 

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Examining the Benefits of Indoor Clubs in Big Cities: Court 16 in New York City

In the bustling environment of New York City, finding the time and the space to play recreational sports can be challenging. Court 16 is a pickleball club that offers indoor locations in downtown Brooklyn, Long Island City, and Manhattan- FiDi, providing members with continual access to the sport. There are lots of benefits surrounding an indoor space in big cities, but the prevailing advantage is that players can engage in pickleball regardless of the season. “New York City’s weather can be very unpredictable,” says Anthony Evrard, Co-Founder & CEO of Court 16. “Having an indoor club allows players to enjoy the game regardless of weather conditions.” Unlike many outdoor clubs that have to close during the winter months, Court 16 is able to offer year-round play. 

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