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D.C. PICKLEBALL TEAM ADDS SUPER BOWL CHAMPION CLIFF AVRIL TO OWNERSHIP GROUP

Published

1 year ago

July 23, 2023

WASHINGTON /PRNewswire/ — D.C. Pickleball Team (DCPT), an expansion team of Major League Pickleball (MLP) and D.C.’s newest professional sports team, announced the addition of Pro Bowler and Super Bowl Champion Cliff Avril to its ownership group.

Avril joins an already high-profile group of investors with DCPT that includes Al Tylis, Sam Porter, Eva Longoria, Justin Verlander, Kate Upton, Rip Hamilton, Shawn Marion, Odell Beckham Jr. and Mesut Ozil.

“Cliff’s passion for playing and growing the sport of pickleball aligns perfectly with the ethos of our team,” said Adam Behnke, Chief Operating Officer of D.C. Pickleball Team. “We’re looking forward to working together to continue to bring positivity to our community through pickleball.”

Avril recently started playing pickleball and quickly fell in love with the sport for all the reasons pickleball is adored by so many – the community, the camaraderie, the competition, the fitness, and the pure fun and joy it brings to all who play.

“Since I stepped foot on the pickleball court I knew there was something special about it,” said Avril. “I was immediately curious about how I could get involved and was thrilled to learn of the opportunity to join D.C. Pickleball Team’s ownership group. I love nothing more than making a positive impact through sport and I appreciate that our group shares that passion.”

Avril is a former NFL Pro Bowler and Super Bowl Champion. He played for the Detroit Lions (2008-2012) and Seattle Seahawks (2013-2017) during his ten year career. He was drafted by the Lions in the 2008 NFL Draft after playing collegiately at Purdue University.

For more information about D.C. Pickleball Team, visit dcpickleballteam.com and follow them on social media:

Twitter – @dcpickleball_tm
Instagram – @dcpickleballteam
Facebook – @dcpickleballteam
TikTok – @d.c.pickleballteam

About D.C. Pickleball Team:

D.C. Pickleball Team (DCPT) is DC’s first professional pickleball team in Major League Pickleball (MLP) that joined MLP ahead of the 2023 season that began January 26th. DCPT’s ownership group includes Al Tylis, Sam Porter, Eva Longoria, Justin Verlander, Kate Upton, Rip Hamilton, Shawn Marion, Odell Beckham Jr., Cliff Avril and Mesut Ozil.

DCPT played in the MLP Challenger Level in season one and will play in the Premier Level in season two. The year is divided into two “seasons” of three events — in the first season, 12 teams will compete in the MLP Premier Level (the first 48 drafted players) and 12 will compete in the MLP Challenger Level (the next 48 drafted players), with rosters consisting of two men and two women. The teams will then flip levels and re-draft players for the second season that starts September 21st. Season one’s Challenger Level roster included Sam Querrey, 10-time ATP Tour titleist and ranked 11th in the world in 2018; Stefan Auvergne, an exciting new player from France and a former competitive tennis player, competitive gamer and race car driver; Shelby Bates, former D1 tennis player at Coastal Carolina University; and Judit Castillo, former D1 tennis player at Northwestern State University. Season two’s Premier Level roster includes Riley Newman, world ranked #2 in pickleball; twin sisters, Jackie and Jade Kawamoto, former D1 tennis players at the University of Dayton; and Christian Alshon, former University of Chicago tennis champion where he was team captain and undefeated in singles.

About Major League Pickleball (MLP by Margaritaville)

Major League Pickleball (MLP by Margaritaville) is the premier team-based professional pickleball league and the standard-bearer for the fastest-growing sport in the United States. Founded by Steve Kuhn in 2021, MLP has since expanded from eight to 24 teams and is committed to growing the sport’s role in society and impacting every facet of pickleball’s business.

MLP features nearly 100 of the best athletes in the sport spread across 24 teams – 12 in the Premier Level, home to the top 48 players drafted and 12 in the Challenger Level, featuring 48 draftees looking to make their ascension to the top of the league – a unique coed format, iconic team owners, the introduction of promotion and relegation to American pro sports, an innovative draft format, easy to understand scoring, and the largest payouts in prize money across all of pro pickleball.

In December 2022, MLP named its first-ever title sponsor, Margaritaville, branding the league MLP by Margaritaville. A global lifestyle brand inspired by Jimmy Buffett, Margaritaville, has served more than 20 million travelers and consumers every year to change their latitude and attitude with Margaritaville. For more information, visit www.margaritaville.com.

For more information on Major League Pickleball, visit the official website and follow MLP on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.

SOURCE D.C. Pickleball Team

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Daily News Staff

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Senior Pickleball Report

Unleashing Joy on the Court: A Talk with Stacey Cleary of 4Joy Paddles

In the latest People of Pickleball Podcast, Stacey Cleary shares her inspiring journey from pandemic play to founding 4Joy Paddles, merging art, community, and philanthropy through pickleball.

Published

2 days ago

November 5, 2024

Rod Washington, Michael J Sliwa

The latest episode of the People of Pickleball Podcast is one for the books! Host Mike Sleeves Sliwa sits down with the incredibly talented Stacey Cleary, the owner and founder of 4Joy Paddles. If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on pickleball and creativity on the court, you won’t want to miss this episode!

Stacey’s Journey to Pickleball and Beyond

Stacey’s story is one of resilience and inspiration. Like many of us, she found her love for the game during the pandemic. Originally starting to play in the summer of 2020, Stacey discovered that pickleball was more than just a sport; it was a way to connect with others when social distancing was the norm.

As a teacher navigating remote learning, Stacey found a cathartic escape in pickleball. Although wearing masks and “tapping paddles” instead of shaking hands felt strange, it allowed her to meet new people and relish the joy of movement. During this transformative time, she also dabbled in digital art, which ultimately laid the groundwork for the creation of her stunning paddles.

Watch the Episode: From Passion to Philanthropy: Stacey Cleary on 4Joy Paddles & Pickleball

The Birth of 4Joy Paddles

What began as a passion project became 4Joy Paddles, a company with a mission to deliver high-quality, artistically eye-catching pickleball paddles. Based in Connecticut, 4Joy embraces the vibrant spirit of the pickleball community by combining uniqueness with philanthropy. As Stacey shares in the podcast, “We play for joy,” and that ethos drives the entire brand.

Stacey strives to ensure that every paddle is a conversation starter on the court. Listeners can hear how she meticulously crafts each design, pouring her artistic talents into paddles that not only work wonderfully but are also visually striking.

More Than Just Paddles: A Philanthropic Mission

But 4Joy is not just about creating beautiful paddles; there’s a deeper mission behind the brand. Stacey discusses her commitment to support various health organizations, donating a portion of their profits to causes like the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, the American Cancer Society, Susan G. Komen, and the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance. These choices stem from her personal experiences and the connections she shares with these causes.

As an individual who has faced significant health challenges herself, including a diagnosis of a benign brain tumor, Stacey reflects on how her experiences have shaped her values and mission.

Why You Should Listen

This podcast episode resonates on many levels—it’s about love for pickleball, creativity, and meaningful actions that contribute back to society. If you’re passionate about pickleball, design, or community-building, Stacey’s insights will inspire you to look at your paddle—and the game itself—in a whole new light.

Join Mike and Stacey for an engaging conversation that dives deep into the vibrant world of pickleball, the art of designing paddles, and the importance of giving back to the community. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious about the game, this episode offers nuggets of wisdom that apply to everyone.

You can catch this enlightening conversation on YouTube or listen to the audio version on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, and other platforms. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear Stacey’s journey and discover the colorful world of 4Joy Paddles!

Are you ready to bring more joy into your pickleball game? Check out the podcast episode, and let Stacey be your guide to a more vibrant, joyful experience on the court!

Visit our podcast website for more episodes: https://sleeves-spr-people-of-pickleball.castos.com/

4Joy

https://4joypaddles.com

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Dive into Pickleball Stardom: Ryan Sherry on the Latest Episode of the People of Pickleball Podcast

Published

3 days ago

November 3, 2024

Rod Washington, Michael J Sliwa

If you’re a fan of pickleball—or just love an inspiring story—you’re in for a treat with the latest episode of the People of Pickleball Podcast. Host Mike “Sleeves” Sliwa welcomed the dynamic Ryan Sherry, a professional pickleball player known for his viral post-match interviews and a key figure in the upcoming documentary, Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story. This episode not only brings Ryan’s vibrant personality to the forefront but also offers a backstage pass to the evolution of the sport we all know and love.

Dive into Pickleball Stardom: Ryan Sherry on the Latest Episode of the People of Pickleball Podcast

A Life on the Road

Ryan’s life is one many would envy, yet as he and Mike discuss, it comes with a whirlwind of travels and tournaments that can be exhausting. A recent stop in Las Vegas for the Las Vegas Open serves as a perfect backdrop for their conversation. The camaraderie, the ambition, and the love for the game come alive as they discuss what it means to be part of the professional pickleball scene.

Behind the Scenes of Dreambreaker

One of the major highlights of this episode is Ryan’s involvement in Dreambreaker, a film that ambitiously chronicles the drama of the sport, particularly during the tumultuous “Tour Wars.” Listeners will gain unique insights into what goes on behind the scenes as Ryan and Mike reflect on their roles in the film. Ryan speaks candidly about his hopes for the film to shed light on those unseen connections and relationships that have helped elevate pickleball to new heights.

The Networker’s Journey

Ryan’s success as a professional player is matched only by his exceptional networking abilities, having built bridges with significant players in both pickleball and the wider sports world. From NFL coaches to tennis stars, his interactions illustrate how vital relationship-building is in establishing any burgeoning sport. As Mike points out, Ryan is like the “eye of the hurricane,” surrounded by exciting events, high-profile players, and making connections that propel the game forward.

A Glimpse of the Future

The podcast episode doesn’t shy away from discussing the future of pickleball, especially as interest in the sport grows internationally. With new players and influences pouring in from other sports, Ryan expresses a mix of excitement and caution. He emphasizes the need for proper governance and the sharing of best practices, ensuring the sport’s integrity as it reaches new audiences worldwide.

Tune In!

You definitely won’t want to miss this engaging episode filled with humor, insight, and a solid dose of pickleball passion. You can find the audio version on Spotify, Amazon Music, and other major platforms. Prefer to watch? The video version is available on YouTube!

This episode promises to be a captivating listen (or watch) for anyone interested in the trajectory of pickleball and the vibrant characters who make it so special. So grab your earbuds, and settle in for a delightful chat with Ryan Sherry—it may just inspire you to take up a paddle or find a nearby court!

Whether you’re a die-hard pickleball enthusiast, a curious newbie, or just looking for an entertaining podcast, this episode is sure to provide something for everyone. Don’t miss out on the latest in the world of pickleball—tune into the People of Pickleball Podcast today!

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Transforming Pickleball in the Lower Mainland: A Game-Changer for Inclusivity

Published

5 days ago

November 2, 2024

Michael J Sliwa, Daily News Staff

chessboard on pallets. inclusive pickleball — Photo by Lindsey Flynn on Pexels.com

In an exciting development for pickleball enthusiasts and newcomers alike, the Inclusive Place Of Pickleball (IPOP) is set to revolutionize the way this beloved sport is played in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia. On October 30, 2024, IPOP announced the upcoming opening of a cutting-edge, 36,000-square-foot indoor facility at The City of Lougheed in Burnaby. This initiative is not just about building courts; it’s about creating an inclusive community space designed to meet the ever-growing demand for pickleball facilities in the region.

The Need for Dedicated Pickleball Spaces

As pickleball continues to skyrocket in popularity, many players face long wait times for court access, particularly in urban areas like the Lower Mainland. The new IPOP facility will feature ten indoor courts, providing ample space for players of all skill levels to engage in the sport without the stress of long waits. According to Chris White, CEO and Chief Paddle Officer of IPOP, “We’re excited to create an inclusive space where everyone—from first-timers to seasoned pros—can experience pickleball’s physical, mental, and social benefits.” This commitment to inclusivity makes the IPOP facility a vital addition to the community.

Anticipated Opening and Future Plans

Scheduled to open its doors in December, the IPOP location in Burnaby is just the beginning. This facility is part of a broader expansion plan that aims to establish additional locations not only throughout British Columbia but also in cities such as Surrey, Victoria, Nanaimo, Anchorage, Montreal, and Penticton. White emphasizes IPOP’s mission to “bring inclusive pickleball to the masses” and to ensure access for future generations, highlighting the organization’s dedication to fostering a pickleball culture that welcomes everyone.

A Proudly Canadian Initiative

IPOP is a proudly Canadian company that recognizes the unique needs of Canadian communities. The organization has developed innovative and adaptable financial models tailored specifically for the Canadian landscape. Instead of adhering to typical franchise models that often involve significant royalties, IPOP prioritizes partnerships with local individuals, associations, and municipalities. By employing progressive project delivery models like DBFOM (Design, Build, Finance, Operate, Maintain), IPOP is able to sustainably manage its resources while promoting community engagement.

Meet the Founders

At the helm of IPOP are experienced professionals who share a passion for pickleball. Chris White leads the initiative alongside Praveen Varshney of Varshney Capital, a former board member of the Vancouver Pickleball Association, and Haneef Esmail of Bristol Management Properties, an expert in hotel and real estate asset management. This powerhouse team combines expertise in various fields to ensure the successful creation of inclusive pickleball facilities across Canada and the United States.

As we await the opening of the new IPOP facility in Burnaby, it’s clear that this initiative will significantly impact the local pickleball community and beyond. By prioritizing inclusivity and accessibility, IPOP is setting a new standard for the sport and ensuring that pickleball can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of age or skill level. Whether you’re an experienced player or just getting started, the Inclusive Place Of Pickleball is poised to become your new go-to destination for all things pickleball. Stay tuned for more updates as the opening date approaches, and prepare to grab your paddle and join the fun!

IPOP is Bringing Dedicated Indoor Pickleball to Burnaby and Penticton: A Game-Changer for BC!

https://ipop.fun/2024/09/dedicated-indoor-pickleball-to-burnaby-and-penticton/

Here’s a side note from IPOP:

IPOP welcomes partnership inquiries from real estate owners and investors interested in helping grow Canada’s pickleball community. To discuss opportunities for opening a facility, leasing, or other partnerships, please reach out to Muni Sehgal at muni@ipop.fun or Chris White at chris@ipop.fun.

SOURCE Inclusive Place of Pickleball Sports & Entertainment Inc

Check out the press release:

https://prnmedia.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-ipop-facility-set-to-transform-pickleball-in-lower-mainland-892192071.html