Good morning pickleball fans and welcome to today's PKLBulletin.
Before we get into the news from the last 24 hours, I just want to remind you that the first-ever World Pickleball Magazine is due to hit the digital stands on Monday 3rd Feb - yes, that is just four days away and yes we are up against a tight editorial deadline!
As you will have seen, we've been following all the action out in Mumbai at the World Pickleball League and if you missed the Day Six recap you can catch up on it here.
Joe James went deeper into the Dill Dinkers/Pickleball Central partnership announcement in his daily column yesterday - well worth a read here.
And, on with the news.
MLP Eyes Profitability by Q4 2025 and Expansion on the Horizon
Major League Pickleball (MLP) is making significant strides towards financial stability and growth, setting its sights on profitability and expansion. The league is aiming to achieve profitability at the league level by the fourth quarter of 2025. This positive outlook is further bolstered by the fact that two of its 22 clubs are already profitable, with another reaching the breakeven point. MLP's goal is to achieve average profitability for all individual teams by 2027.
With financial goals in sight, MLP is now actively exploring expansion opportunities. For the first time in two years, the league is offering investors the chance to get involved in the rapidly growing sport, with the sale of up to two expansion franchises. The asking price for each new team is targeted around $15 million, reflecting the league's increasing value and popularity. This has generated substantial interest with nearly two dozen parties expressing interest in acquiring a franchise over the past two weeks. The location of any new expansion team would be determined by the new owner, presenting opportunities for the league to reach new markets and fan bases.
In addition to financial growth, MLP is also emphasizing the competitive spirit and prestige associated with winning a championship. The league is shifting focus away from financial incentives towards the pride and legacy of being an MLP champion. Winning the MLP championship is considered the most challenging trophy to win in professional pickleball, due to the requirement of navigating both a regular season and playoffs with a team. This emphasis on competition and legacy aims to increase fan engagement and establish a deep-rooted culture within the league. The league hopes that players will see the MLP championship as a prestigious accomplishment that sets them apart.
PPA Stars Invade Down Under: McGuffin, Johns, and Navratil Promote Pickleball at Australian Open
PPA stars are making waves in Australia, with Tyson McGuffin, Collin Johns, and Zane Navratil leading the charge to promote pickleball at the prestigious Australian Open. The three pro players, all with tennis backgrounds, took full advantage of the opportunity to enjoy the festivities at the Grand Slam event, while also highlighting the growing relationship between tennis and pickleball.
McGuffin, attending his first Grand Slam, enjoyed the men's final courtside and noted on Instagram the positive impact of the two sports joining forces. Johns also shared behind-the-scenes footage, expressing his honour to be part of growing pickleball in Australia. The pros' presence at the Australian Open, which also included a pickleball tournament on site, marked a significant step in the effort to unite the two racket sports. Despite some negative reactions from tennis fans, the event was well-promoted on social media and demonstrated the increasing acceptance of pickleball in mainstream sports.
This cross-promotion comes just ahead of the PPA’s first international event, the Australia Pickleball Open, to be held in Melbourne. The PPA pros are not only generating excitement for the tournament, but also showcasing the global reach of pickleball and the enthusiasm of players worldwide. While these PPA stars are in Australia, they're also considered beatable by the local talent, raising the stakes for the competition and bringing a new level of international rivalry to the sport.
Aussie Players Ready to Rumble: Homegrown Talent Aim to Upset PPA Stars in Melbourne
Australia's pickleball scene is set for a thrilling showdown as homegrown talent prepares to challenge visiting PPA stars at the upcoming Australia Pickleball Open in Melbourne. While big names like Tyson McGuffin, Collin Johns, and Zane Navratil have arrived to promote the sport, local players are eager to prove their mettle and secure upset victories. The tournament is the first international event for the PPA and represents a chance for Australian players to showcase their skills on a global stage.
Several Aussie players are poised to make a significant impact. Keep an eye out for:
- Danielle Townzen, known for her "wizard-like" backhand, and her partner Joey Wild who are seeded at an uncharacteristically low 36. This pairing has won multiple PPA events in Australia, making them strong contenders.
- Nicola Skuman, a 16-year-old with a strong tennis background, and George Wall, an MLP Australia captain known for his consistent play, who could challenge top seeds.
- Amelia Schmidt, who has made a name for herself in the A division, partnering with Townzen in women's doubles.
- Lucas Pasco, a young talent who hits with a Yola Gen 3 paddle and was a top-10 junior player, who will partner with George Wall in men's doubles.
- Tom Evans, who made a run to the round of 16 in a PPA event last year, is a dedicated and professional player who is hoping to shine at this event.
These players are not only looking to compete but also to capitalize on the opportunity to gain international recognition and elevate the profile of Australian pickleball. The tournament is anticipated to be a platform where local stars can demonstrate their abilities against some of the best players in the world.
CJ Klinger Predicted to be the Best Lefty in Pickleball
CJ Klinger is making waves in the pickleball world, with predictions by Jim Kloss that he will become the best lefty player by the end of the year. This bold claim is based on his rising star status and impressive performances on the right side of the court. Klinger, known for his exuberance, is a natural pairing with Quang Dong, and the two have had success together in the past.
Klinger's skill set includes a powerful game, and he is known for his work ethic. His performance at the Australian Open will be a good test of his abilities, where he will team with Dong in men's doubles. Klinger is considered to be a player to watch, and this prediction could very well come to fruition as he continues to develop his game.
His recent excursion to an Aussie Rules Football Club shows he has an interest in sports in general and may be an indicator of the kind of passion and dedication he brings to pickleball. As a young player, Klinger's potential is considerable, and his progress will be closely followed by fans and analysts. With his talent, work ethic, and growing recognition, CJ Klinger is a player to watch as he continues to make his mark on the professional pickleball scene.
CRBN's TruFoam Revolutionizes Paddles: New Core Tech Promises Enhanced Performance
CRBN is set to disrupt the pickleball paddle market with its new TruFoam technology, a revolutionary core design that promises enhanced performance and durability. Unlike the typical plastic polymer honeycomb cores found in most paddles, CRBN's TruFoam core is made from a high-density foam specifically engineered for pickleball. This new approach was inspired by surfboards, with the company experimenting with different foam types and layups to achieve the desired performance characteristics.
The development of TruFoam took about a year and a half, and the company had to overcome challenges in scaling production due to the unique nature of the materials and processes involved. The new core design is not only intended to improve performance but also to address issues with core crush and inconsistent play over time. Unlike other paddles that may have a "break-in" period, CRBN's TruFoam is designed to maintain consistent performance throughout its lifespan.
CRBN's TruFoam paddles are currently available in a 14mm thickness and are designed to be an all-court paddle that enhances all aspects of the game rather than just one. The company is also exploring ways to use this technology to optimize for different playing styles, such as control or power. With the introduction of TruFoam, CRBN hopes to set a new standard for paddle technology, demonstrating that foam can be used to create paddles that are not just powerful but also offer enhanced control and feel.
Buc-ee's Enters the Picklesphere: Beloved US Gas Station Chain Launches Paddle Set
Buc-ee's, the popular gas station chain known for its massive stores and beloved beaver mascot, is officially entering the pickleball world with the launch of its own paddle set. In a collaboration with Diadem Sports, Buc-ee's is now offering a beginner paddle set, along with individual paddles and pickleballs, in their stores. The paddle set includes two carbon fiber paddles with a honeycomb core, embossed with the iconic Buc-ee's beaver logo, as well as two pickleballs.
This partnership brings together the fast-growing sport of pickleball with a brand that has a strong following, particularly in the South. The move is also a testament to pickleball's increasing mainstream appeal. Buc-ee's is known for its unique merchandise and souvenirs, and the addition of pickleball gear fits perfectly with its brand. Given that Diadem is a trusted paddle company, the Buc-ee's pickleball products are expected to be of good quality.
The potential for Buc-ee's to further engage with pickleball enthusiasts is also being discussed, with the possibility of building pickleball courts at their locations, which often have large amounts of land near interstate exits. This would allow customers to enjoy a game of pickleball after fueling up and purchasing snacks. The Texas Ranchers, an MLP team, may even endorse this idea, as they have previously been seen taking one of their players to Buc-ee's. The entry of Buc-ee's into the "picklesphere" is seen as a unique and exciting development for the sport.
Selkirk Paddle Surge: UPA Approves 14 New Selkirk Models
Selkirk has significantly expanded its presence in the pickleball market, with the UPA recently adding 14 new Selkirk paddle models to its provisional approval list. This move marks a major increase for Selkirk, which previously had only two provisionally approved paddles at the Masters tournament earlier this month.
This development comes at a time when paddle technology and innovation are rapidly advancing, with brands like CRBN introducing new materials such as a TruFoam core. The increase in Selkirk's approved paddles indicates a strong commitment from the company to meet the evolving standards and requirements set by governing bodies like the UPA. The approval of so many models at once highlights the growing competition and innovation in the paddle market.
This news also comes amid discussions about the need for more stringent testing and regulation of paddles, to ensure consistent performance and prevent changes over time. The UPA's approval process, which includes a new PB core test, is designed to make sure that paddles meet specific standards and perform consistently over time. With the addition of these 14 new models, Selkirk is positioning itself to remain a major player in the pickleball equipment industry as the sport continues to grow.
Paddle Market Chaos: Manufacturers Grapple with Changing Rules and Tech
The pickleball paddle market is experiencing a period of rapid change and uncertainty as manufacturers navigate evolving regulations and technological advancements. Companies are facing challenges in keeping up with the shifting requirements of governing bodies like the UPA and USP, while simultaneously innovating to meet player demands.
One of the biggest issues is the lack of clarity around what materials and designs will be allowed or restricted, with rules and testing protocols constantly being adjusted. This makes it difficult for manufacturers to optimize their designs and creates a moving target for research and development. For instance, CRBN had to ensure their new TruFoam core passed the PB core testing before they even knew what the limits were.
Adding to the chaos is the rapid pace of innovation, with companies scrambling to develop new technologies and designs. CRBN's TruFoam core, which replaces the typical honeycomb structure with a proprietary foam, is a prime example of this innovation. At the same time, companies like Selkirk are rapidly increasing their product lines to meet the new standards, with 14 new models recently added to the UPA provisional approval list.
The industry is also seeing a rise in new brands, which are contributing to a competitive environment. As the market becomes more crowded, manufacturers are striving to differentiate themselves through unique features, materials, and performance characteristics. This is all happening while the industry works to address player concerns about paddle durability and inconsistent performance over time. The changes make it a very interesting and difficult time for paddle manufacturers.
"Voice of Pickleball" Hits the Digital Court: Dave Fleming a Playable Character in New Video Game
Dave Fleming, known as "The Voice of Pickleball," is stepping off the sidelines and onto the digital court as a playable character in the new PPA Pickleball Tour 2025 video game. This unexpected twist came about after Fleming volunteered to hit with Meghan Dizon for motion capture, which led to the game developers deciding to include him as a player.
Fleming's character is not just a novelty, but a fairly skilled player with an overall rating of 87, with an impressive dinking rating of 98. His other skills are rated as follows: athleticism (82), power (84), accuracy (86), and hand speed (86). This high dinking rating is a humorous nod to his real-life playing style, as he admits his dinking skills are better than his ability to speed up the game. He also provides commentary during his own matches, often with self-deprecating humour.
This is a dream come true for Fleming who was a big fan of video games growing up. He is excited that he can beat Ben Johns in the game, something that he admits would "never, ever, ever happen on the real 20x44". The game also features Fleming in his broadcast attire, complete with a headset, adding to the fun. The game is available on Xbox, PS5, Steam, and Nintendo Switch.
Scottish Pickleball Defies the Storm: Auld Reekie Festival a Hit Despite Weather
The Auld Reekie Festival in Edinburgh successfully brought together over 100 pickleball players from across Scotland, despite the challenges posed by Storm Eowyn. The event, jointly hosted by Pickleball Scotland and the East Lothian Pickleball Club, showcased the growing enthusiasm for the sport in the region.
The storm created difficulties for organizers and attendees, but participants still came to enjoy a day of pickleball. The festival included special activity courts such as "Play The Ball Machine" and "Beat The Coach," which were particularly popular. These features added a unique element to the event and provided opportunities for players to improve their skills.
The success of the Auld Reekie Festival, despite the weather, highlights the resilience and dedication of the Scottish pickleball community. The event also demonstrates how much the sport has grown, with players travelling from all over the country to participate. This is one example of how pickleball is expanding rapidly in the UK, with various festivals and events gaining popularity. The ability of the event to proceed despite the storm is a sign of the community's dedication to the sport and the efforts of the event organizers.
Pickleball.com Strives for Unbiased Reporting: News Outlet Aims to be the ESPN of Pickleball
Pickleball.com is positioning itself as an unbiased news source for the sport, striving to be the "ESPN of pickleball". The website, which is about a year old, aims to provide trustworthy, authentic, and timely news coverage. Despite being under the same ownership umbrella as the PPA and MLP, pickleball.com operates as a legally separate entity under Pickleball Incorporated. This separation allows it to cover the sport without being pressured to be strictly positive.
The news outlet has a team of writers, including Will, Victoria, Matt, and Jim Clauss, who create articles, news, SEO content, and stat-based pieces. Jim Kloss is known for his spicy takes and thought-provoking opinions, while Jim Ramsey focuses on stat-based content. The site also has a social media team run by Jasmine, but the editorial team at pickleball.com, led by Hannah Johns, manages the content and ensures its news-focused approach.
Pickleball.com’s goal is to treat all players and tours equally, covering both national and international events as well as rivalries and other newsworthy situations. The site will also publish content that is not always complimentary, recognizing that more dramatic or controversial news often generates more discussion and engagement. The goal is to present the facts and allow the public to form its own opinions, with the understanding that complete objectivity is a difficult goal.
Hannah Johns: From Court Reporter to Chief Editor: A Look at Her Journey in Pickleball
Hannah Johns, a prominent figure in the pickleball world, has transitioned from a court reporter to the senior chief editor of pickleball.com, showcasing her diverse talents and deep understanding of the sport. Her journey began as a third employee at the PPA, where she initially handled a variety of roles including social media, PR, and pro player relations.
As a reporter, Johns gained experience interviewing players, though she admits that she was "terrible" at first. She honed her skills over time and eventually became a familiar face on the tour, learning to embrace the challenge and grow from uncomfortable situations. She also learned the importance of letting go of perfectionism, which is a key aspect of working in a startup.
Johns's current role as senior chief editor of pickleball.com involves overseeing a team of writers, managing content for the website, and maintaining its unbiased approach. The website aims to be the "ESPN of pickleball," providing trustworthy and timely news coverage. She oversees a team of writers including Will, Victoria, Matt, and Jim Kloss. While social media is managed by a separate team, Johns occasionally steps in to guide the direction of the social content. This transition allows her to focus on her strengths in writing and content creation, while leveraging her passion for pickleball.
Johns is also teaming up with her ex-partner to open a new pickleball club in Austin, Texas, called Rush Social. This venture marks a significant step for Johns into the business side of the sport, combining her passion for pickleball with her entrepreneurial spirit. The club broke ground in early January of 2025 and is projected to open by the end of the year.
Rush Social will be more than just a pickleball facility, it is designed to be an "all-day work and play hangout spot". The club will include 16 pickleball courts, two padel courts, a bar, a restaurant, and a nature park and reserve. This reflects the growing popularity of pickleball and the increasing demand for high-quality facilities. Johns’ vision for Rush Social is to create a community space for both work and recreation.
Her experience in content creation and news reporting will likely inform her approach to building a successful and engaging club. The club will be another way she can promote the sport and contribute to its growth.