Our Experience at the World Pickleball Convention
Attending the World Pickleball Convention was a vibrant and engaging experience, held at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The event brought together pickleball enthusiasts, players, vendors, and industry professionals from around the globe, creating a dynamic hub of activity centered around this rapidly growing sport.
Convention Highlights
The convention featured a mix of educational and interactive components:
Speakers and Seminars: Attendees had the opportunity to listen to renowned speakers and participate in seminars covering various topics from advanced pickleball strategies to the latest developments in equipment technology. Industry leaders shared insights into the future of the sport, trends to watch, and tips for players of all levels.
Expo Floor: The expo floor was a bustling marketplace where vendors showcased the latest pickleball gear, apparel, and accessories. Attendees could test out new paddles, grips, and shoes, gaining firsthand experience with the products. Demonstrations and hands-on sessions were plentiful, offering an immersive way to explore new equipment.
Interactive Play Zones: Dedicated play areas allowed participants to play pickleball, join mini-tournaments, and receive coaching from professional players. This hands-on approach ensured that attendees could practice their skills and enjoy the sport in a lively environment.
Networking Opportunities: The convention was an excellent platform for networking, with numerous opportunities to connect with other players, coaches, and industry professionals. Whether through formal sessions or informal gatherings, the event fostered a sense of community and collaboration.
Product Demonstrations and Testing: Vendors provided live demonstrations of their latest products, giving attendees the chance to see new innovations in action. This included everything from high-tech training aids to stylish and functional court attire.
Family and Kids Programs: Recognizing the sport's wide appeal, the convention included programs and activities specifically designed for families and children. These sessions aimed to introduce younger players to pickleball and encourage family participation in the sport.
Keynote Speakers
Prominent figures in the pickleball world headlined the keynote sessions, offering valuable insights into their experiences and the evolving landscape of pickleball. Some notable speakers included:
Robert Quicksilver, Chairman of the Board, USA Pickleball, who discussed the growth and future of pickleball.
Stu Upson, President of the Pickleball Hall of Fame and former CEO of USA Pickleball, who shared the official history of pickleball.
Ruth Rosenquist, Communications Chair at the Global Pickleball Federation, moderated a session on the worldwide explosion of pickleball.
Ace Rodrigues, Founder/CEO of Pickleball Kingdom, spoke on disrupting the pickleball world.
Lindsey Vermillion, from Chicken N Pickle, and other industry leaders discussed pickleball partnerships and pop-up events.
Athlete Branding and Sponsorship Speakers
A significant focus was placed on athlete branding and event sponsorships, highlighting the importance of strategic partnerships. Notable speakers included:
Sam Flaxman from TopNotch Management, who moderated the session.
Top professional players Beth Bellamy and Salome Devidze shared their experiences on securing sponsorships and building personal brands within the sport.
DUPR Ratings & Collegiate Speakers
The convention also delved into the DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) system, aiming to unify the game and foster the future of collegiate and next-gen players. Key speakers included:
Tito Machado, CEO of DUPR.
Noah Suemnick, Founder of the National Collegiate Players Association, discussed the impact of standardized ratings on the sport's growth.
Final Thoughts
The World Pickleball Convention was a resounding success, providing attendees with a comprehensive experience that combined education, hands-on play, and networking. It celebrated the sport of pickleball, fostering a deeper appreciation for the game and its community. Whether you are a seasoned player or new to the sport, this convention offered something for everyone.