The first Pickleball Minds conference, hosted by Amitabh “A.J.” Jain and his team from Rally Sports, took place in Princeton, New Jersey. The event focused on the business side of pickleball, attracting a diverse group of industry professionals, influencers, and organizations. The conference offered attendees the opportunity to network and engage in deep discussions about advancing and promoting the sport.
The evening before the conference, Jain hosted a social event for traveling guests and panelists. Attendees had the chance to interact with industry leaders such as Paul Olsen, Matt Farrell, Kaitlyn Kerr, and Carl Schmits. The event provided a platform for fruitful discussions about the future of pickleball and the various initiatives being undertaken to grow and advance the sport on a global scale.
The conference featured several panel sessions that delved into different aspects of the business of pickleball. Topics included trends, standardization, grassroots development, global expansion, business models, investment opportunities, tech innovations, and evolving business models in media, events, and allied services. The discussions provided valuable insights into the current landscape of the pickleball industry and potential opportunities for growth and expansion.
One of the highlights of the conference was the panel on evolving business models, which focused on licensing, real estate, legal, insurance, and business services in the pickleball industry. Panelists shared practical advice and information on topics such as due diligence for club operators, liability insurance, and the construction of pickleball courts. The discussions shed light on important considerations for those looking to invest or get involved in the business side of pickleball.
The conference concluded with a panel featuring USAP Chairman of the Board Robert Quicksilver and pro player Collin Johns. Quicksilver shared staggering numbers about USAP’s membership and ambassador network, highlighting the organization’s focus on junior growth. Johns also discussed his various businesses outside of his playing career, emphasizing the potential for individuals to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities in the pickleball industry.
Overall, the Pickleball Minds conference was deemed a success, with over 150 attendees representing a diverse range of stakeholders in the sport. The event provided a valuable platform for networking, knowledge-sharing, and collaboration within the industry. The conference was the first of several planned by Jain around the globe, offering a unique opportunity for individuals interested in the business side of pickleball to connect with industry leaders and explore potential growth opportunities in the sport.
