The first annual World Pickleball Convention was held in Las Vegas over the weekend. The event featured 20 panel sessions, dozens of speakers, a vendor exhibition, and a pickleball tournament played on temporary courts set up in a convention hall. The convention brought together industry leaders and visionaries to discuss the state of the sport. Carl Foster, a prominent figure in the pickleball industry, organized the event and served as its emcee throughout the week.
One of the key highlights of the event was a panel session led by USA Pickleball Chairman of the Board, Robert Quicksilver, who provided insights into the state of the sport in the US. Some interesting data points shared included a 225% 3-year growth in pickleball, active development projects worth over $300M, and demographic trends showing growth in the 35-49 age group. USAP also discussed their rule modification process, equipment testing initiatives, and upcoming changes to their membership program.
A panel discussion by the Global Pickleball Federation members highlighted challenges facing international organizations, with a focus on equipment availability and Olympic aspirations. With 44 countries signed on to the GPF, efforts are being made to standardize the sport globally to meet Olympic requirements. The discussion shed light on the complexities of international pickleball governance and the ambitions of various NGBs.
The convention also featured discussions on pickleball franchises, indoor clubs, and disruptive trends in the industry. Founders of leading indoor facility franchises discussed their experiences and strategies for success in the competitive pickleball market. There was also a focus on innovation in pickleball equipment and testing, with USAP’s chief testing engineer sharing insights on the Coefficient of Restitution test for paddles.
Athlete branding and representation in pickleball were also topics of discussion at the convention. Pro players shared their experiences with paddle endorsements, brand partnerships, and income sources. The shift in player income sources post the introduction of salary contracts was highlighted, showing the increasing value of brand endorsements for top players in the sport.
The convention concluded with a keynote address by Steve Kuhn, who discussed his endeavors post his departure from MLP. Kuhn shared his vision for the future of pickleball and his passion for creating impactful change through the sport. The event also featured a panel discussion on media, PR, and TV in pickleball, emphasizing the importance of different communication channels to promote the sport. The panel highlighted the role of social media, digital marketing, and storytelling in raising awareness and attracting funding for pickleball initiatives.
Overall, the World Pickleball Convention provided a platform for industry leaders, athletes, and enthusiasts to come together, share insights, and discuss the future of the sport. With a focus on growth, standardization, and innovation, the event showcased the potential of pickleball as a global phenomenon. Participants left the convention inspired and motivated to continue driving the sport forward and building a thriving community of pickleball enthusiasts worldwide.
