What started as a backyard experiment on Bainbridge Island in 1965 (yes, you read that correctly) continues to grow into a worldwide sensation. How about a nearly five-million-players-across-the-US kind of sensation? It all started when Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell and Barney McCallum were looking for ways to pass the time. Their innovative strategy of combining elements of badminton, Wiffle ball and makeshift paddles into the game we know as pickleball was created, becoming an official sport in 1972.

Fast-forward to today and founders, owners and principals Chris Palermo and Anthony Grosso have created the blueprint for state-of-the-art, franchisable indoor courts that allow enthusiasts to play year-round. Catering to players of all skill levels, the franchises are not just about the game; they are about building a community.

Featuring advanced lighting, cushioned courts, a pro shop and refreshment zones, PickleRage is helping to foster a welcoming environment where people can connect, compete, and stay active, further fueling the sport’s rise across the country.

Beyond just the spirit of the game, PickleRage fosters a vibrant community where players can connect, learn, and improve their skills through various clinics and workshops led by experienced coaches.

We sat down with COO David Smith to get a peek into the future for pickleball enthusiasts.

Give us a snapshot of your brand.

PickleRage is one of America’s premier indoor pickleball club franchisers, created by passionate pickleball enthusiasts who are experts in the commercial real estate space. We have successfully combined state-of-the-art facilities, technology, and programming to offer a world-class pickleball experience for players of all ages and experience levels.

Our clubs are designed to provide pickleball players with a place to play year-round, regardless of weather conditions. Every club features fast, non-skid CushionX courts, perfect lighting, and a never-ending supply of leagues, tournaments, clinics, and open play to keep players coming back.

With our recent launch in West Bloomfield, Michigan, we’re just beginning our journey to bring the PickleRage experience to more locations across the country, with new clubs coming soon to Jacksonville, Florida; Glen Burnie, Maryland; Mobile, Alabama; Grand Rapids, Michigan; and Kalamazoo, Michigan.

What type of consumer are you targeting?

We target players at all skill levels, from novice to advanced. Our inclusive environment appeals to both newcomers and seasoned pros, catering to all ages and skill levels. We’re particularly focused on engaging community-driven individuals who value health, wellness and social connection through sport.

How does the design of your facilities cater to what today’s consumers are looking for?

Our facilities are designed to meet the modern player’s desire for both convenience and performance. We installed high-end lighting, cushioned court surfaces, and advanced check-in and scheduling technology to provide our members with a seamless pickleball experience.

We’re particularly focused on engaging community-driven individuals who value health, wellness and social connection through sport.

Walk us through how and why it is designed the way it is.

Every element of our design is intentional and influenced by active pickleball players. It starts with the courts; we selected CushionX for our surfaces, the same material used in the U.S. Open. CushionX replicates the fast, non-skid outdoor surfaces that many players are accustomed to but with an added layer of cushion that allows for extended playtime.

We also opted for high-end LED lighting, which is cost-effective and replicates the lighting of a sunny day. The paint and color selections in the clubs create clear sightlines for maximum ball visibility. Social areas are strategically placed to encourage community interaction, and our tech-driven amenities, like digital reservations and check-ins, streamline the player experience. The design reflects our commitment to quality, accessibility, and community-building.

What are some of the trends happening on the architecture side of the design business?

The architecture of sports facilities is increasingly focused on sustainability, multi-functionality and user-centric design. We’re seeing a rise in the integration of eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and modular layouts that allow spaces to adapt to various activities and events.

Incorporating technology, such as advanced lighting systems and climate control, is also becoming standard to enhance both the player experience and operational efficiency.

What are some of the more prominent features being added today?

Prominent features in our facilities include advanced LED lighting systems for optimal visibility, CushionX flooring to reduce joint impact, and integrated technology for online reservations and member management. We’re also experimenting with video recording technology that allows players to livestream and record their matches.

Additionally, we are incorporating social spaces, such as small lounges, to enhance the community aspect of our clubs. These features align with current trends prioritizing player comfort, convenience, and social interaction.

Give us a rundown of your market’s layout.

The pickleball market is rapidly expanding, attracting a diverse demographic from various age groups and skill levels. We see strong demand for both recreational play and competitive leagues, with growing interest in youth programs and senior-friendly activities.

Our market layout is a blend of urban and suburban locations, with facilities designed to serve both densely populated areas and pickleball enthusiasts in more spread-out regions. Each club is strategically placed to maximize accessibility and community engagement.

What’s the biggest issue today related to the construction side of the business?

One of the biggest challenges on the construction side of our business is balancing the demand for rapid expansion while maintaining high-quality standards. Ensuring that every new facility meets our rigorous specifications for court surfaces, lighting, and amenities while adhering to sustainable practices can be complex, particularly in diverse geographic locations with varying regulations.

These factors can lead to delays and increased expenses, making it crucial to have a well-coordinated project management approach.

Talk about sustainability. What are you doing?

Sustainability is a core value at PickleRage. We incorporate energy-efficient systems, such as LED lighting and smart climate control, to minimize our environmental footprint. Our facilities are designed with durable, eco-friendly materials, and we continuously seek ways to reduce waste and improve operational efficiency.

What type of opportunities do you see moving ahead?

Despite challenges, the growing popularity of pickleball presents numerous opportunities for expansion, particularly in underserved areas where the sport is gaining popularity. The increased focus on health and wellness also opens doors for offering related services, such as fitness programs and workshops.

Additionally, the rise of pickleball as a competitive sport offers opportunities to host major tournaments and events.

Are you optimistic about what you are seeing out there?

Absolutely. The pickleball community is thriving, and the sport’s accessibility and appeal across age groups make it a lasting trend. The increase in interest, combined with the social nature of pickleball, aligns perfectly with our brand’s vision.

We are confident in our ability to meet the growing demand through our ongoing expansion plans, including the opening of our West Bloomfield club and many more locations on the horizon. We are excited about the future and our role in shaping the pickleball landscape.

What trends are you seeing?

We’re noticing a surge in interest from younger demographics, driven by social media and the sport’s growing presence in mainstream culture. There’s also an increase in social and community-oriented play, with people seeking not just a place to exercise but a place to connect with others.

On the facility side, trends like enhanced player experiences, tech integration, and multi-functional spaces are shaping the way we build and operate our clubs.

What’s the secret to creating a ‘must visit’ facility environment in today’s competitive landscape?

The key is to offer more than just a place to play; it’s about creating an experience. This means providing top-notch facilities, fostering a welcoming community and offering diverse programming that caters to all skill levels. Innovation is also crucial – incorporating the latest in sports technology, comfortable social spaces, and unique events helps differentiate our clubs and keeps members coming back.

What’s today’s consumer looking for in your facility?

Today’s consumer is looking for convenience, quality, and a sense of belonging. They want easy access to well-maintained courts, opportunities to improve their skills through clinics and lessons, and a community where they can make connections and have fun. They also appreciate clean, modern facilities with amenities that enhance their overall experience.

Tell us what makes your brand so unique?

PickleRage stands out for delivering a superior pickleball experience, our innovative approach to facility design, and our strong focus on community. We offer more than just a place to play—we provide a unique, welcoming environment where players of all levels can connect, compete, and grow. Our combination of premium facilities, member experience, and community-centric values sets us apart in the pickleball world.

Interview by Michael J. Pallerino

One-on-One with… PickleRage’s David Smith

Describe a typical day.

There is no such thing as a typical day when you are building a new franchise system, but every day has some things in common that I focus on. Primarily, I focus on perfecting our operations and member experience. We want to become the nation’s premier indoor pickleball club, so we are always looking for ways to get better.

I work with our team to help identify the next best-in-class locations for PickleRage and interview franchise candidates to join our growing system. I explore new vendor partnerships, looking for the next great technology to enhance our member experience. I talk to members regularly to get their feedback on how we are doing. Finally, I end the day playing the fastest growing sport in America—pickleball.

What’s the biggest item on your to-do list right now?

Building our world-class franchise support team. We have several openings for great team members to help us build the fastest-growing franchise concept in the country.

What was the best advice you ever received?

Be open to possibilities. I have found that when I have this mindset, great opportunities emerge. I didn’t even start playing pickleball until recently, and now I am leading one of the fastest-growing brands in the industry. It’s so rewarding to discover new, exciting things just by being open to what’s possible.

What’s the best thing a customer ever said to you?

“I want to buy a franchise.” There is no better validation of our efforts than when a customer enjoys the experience so much that they want to have a franchise of their own. I obsess over the experience players will have at PickleRage, so when someone shares their joy with me, it makes it all worthwhile.