Early Planning For Fall Adventures

Summertime in Grand Rapids

The summer has been awesome as I further explore the business realm of racquet sports, especially pickleball. It's wild to observe the planning of new facilities and the increase in public courts coming to my local area, meeting the demand from both new and existing players who are hungry for more courts and playing time.

On the sports travel side, I had the opportunity to explore new destinations this season, including Grand Rapids, Michigan taking in a Major League Pickleball (MLP) stop along with participating in clinics at fantastic member facilities like Smash Pickleball in London, Ontario. Not to mention, another season of travel baseball with my son — one last run before he ventures off to university in September.

Summertime is not over yet; however, my attention is shifting towards the fall season for further developing pickleball business opportunities and capitalizing on the surge in sports travel experiences. Looking ahead to the coming months, listed below are early events I have on my radar.

CNPL Championships

The Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL) playoffs jumped out at me with its growing popularity north of the border, having the championship weekend hosted at London's Smash Pickleball venue. The same place I attended this summer for a clinic. Canada's pickleball world will surely be in attendance during the first weekend in October.

Virginia Beach Cup

I have signed up as a volunteer for my first PPA Tour event in Virginia Beach. I am looking forward to participating in this tour stop, not as a camp attendee or spectator, but by assisting behind the scenes. This role is one I know well, having begun my sports marketing career by volunteering at numerous sporting events in the Toronto area, including a regular summer position with Tennis Canada for the Canadian Opens.

Daytona Beach Open

I enjoy hearing or noticing the excitement spreading among my fellow pickleball players or friends who are also seeking winter getaways focused on playing pickleball in the south. I strongly suggest checking out Pictona at Holly Hill for an initial pickleball adventure combined with the PPA Tour's Daytona Beach Open. It's an all-in-one destination for a seamless experience of all the unique features, whether you're aiming to enhance your skills at a PPA Camp or witness the incredible pro pickleball athletes as they return to Daytona Beach.

As summer comes to a close, my upcoming pickleball trips will become more defined, but I appreciate how the events mentioned above serve as strong pillars to guide current work and passion. Let's connect if there are other events you're aware of, if you have suggestions for additional on-court experiences or looking for tips for creating your own pickleball travel adventure.