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Olympian and Four-time NBA Champion Tony Parker Named as Face of Alibaba.com’s Olympic Games Paris 2024 Campaign

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The basketball legend-turned-entrepreneur will front Alibaba.com’s campaign—”Same Player, New Game”—for the Olympic Games Paris 2024 alongside two other sporting stars who are also winning in business

PARIS /PRNewswire/ — Alibaba.com, a leading platform for global business-to-business (B2B) e-commerce, today announced Tony Parker as a Global Ambassador for its “Same Player, New Game” creative campaign for the Olympic Games Paris 2024. Alibaba.com is the Official E-Commerce Services Partner of the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

Tony Parker
Tony Parker ENG

Alibaba.com’s Global Ambassador, Tony Parker, is a two-time Olympian who reached the quarterfinals of Men’s Basketball with France at the Olympic Games Rio 2016. Regarded as a legend of his sport, Tony is a four-time winner of the NBA and has been featured in the NBA All-Star team six times. However, Tony’s successful career goes beyond his sporting accomplishments. Since retiring from the game, he has become a serial entrepreneur and investor who has successfully bridged the divide between sports and business.

Reflecting this sentiment, the “Same Player, New Game” campaign will raise awareness of the opportunities for athletes and Olympians to transition from sporting success to entrepreneurship. As a Global Ambassador, Tony will highlight the ease at which aspiring entrepreneurs—including athletes and former athletes—can set up their own businesses, establish supply chains with buyers and sellers from around the globe, and drive long-term growth through Alibaba.com.

In the campaign, Tony will be joined by Simona Galik Moore, a former Women’s Tennis Association professional, and Elias Schwärzler, the adrenaline-chasing mountain biker who—since 2022—has held the Guinness World Record for “Fastest Bicycle Towed by a Motorcycle.” Like Tony, both athletes have gone on to achieve success outside of sports. In 2020, Simona launched a professional pickleball brand driving interest in one of the most exciting new sports. Meanwhile, Elias is the founder and owner of a specialist mountain biking clothing brand and mountain biking academy. Both use Alibaba.com as an integral part of their businesses to source new products, forge new partnerships, and support growth. Each will also share more details of their journey from sporting stars to entrepreneurs in the run-up to the Games, including at a high-profile press event scheduled to take place on July 31 in Paris. 

Over the coming weeks, fans can also expect to see Alibaba.com’s Global Ambassadors featured in the run-up to and during the Olympic Games Paris 2024. Launching this month, the three Global Ambassadors will star in a new brand campaign[1] highlighting Alibaba.com’s innovative approach to business.

Liz Wang, Global Head of Marketing, Alibaba.com, said: “To reach the pinnacle of your sport, you need to be self-motivated, disciplined, resilient and competitive—all traits that are also needed to be a successful entrepreneur. Tony Parker, Simona Galik Moore and Elias Schwärzler are inspiring examples of the transition from sports to business, and we are thrilled to welcome them to the Alibaba.com team during the Olympic Games Paris 2024.

“This is a fantastic opportunity to put a spotlight on the business opportunities available to former professional sportspeople, and how platforms such as Alibaba.com can help turn their entrepreneurial ambitions into reality.”

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Tony Parker said: “Since retiring from professional sport, I’ve focused all my energy on running my own businesses. I’m a regular buyer on Alibaba.com and have seen first-hand the huge value that can be created by connecting with suppliers and efficiently sourcing products through its innovative digital platform. Now, in my role as an ambassador for Alibaba.com, I will use my personal experience to help other athletes embark upon their entrepreneurial journeys and enjoy a successful second career.”

Source: Alibaba

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THE PICKLR EXPANDS ITS PREMIERE PICKLEBALL FRANCHISE INTO CANADA

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North America’s Fastest-Growing Indoor Pickleball Facility to Open 65 Clubs in Canada

KAYSVILLE, Utah /PRNewswire/ — The Picklr, North America’s fastest-growing indoor pickleball franchise, announced today its expansion into Canada through a Master Franchise Agreement with TPC Development Corporation. This strategic partnership will deliver more indoor pickleball facilities to a rapidly-growing community of pickleball players in Canada.

Picklr
Courtesy of The Picklr

The agreement grants TPC exclusive rights to develop, open and operate all of The Picklr Clubs in Canada, outside of Quebec. TPC plans to open 65 locations across several Canadian provinces and territories, including British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, Newfoundland, and the Yukon, Northwest Territories, and Nunavut. The first Picklr location will open in Toronto in 2025, marking a significant milestone in bringing more indoor pickleball options to Canadian players.

With development oversight and ongoing support from The Picklr’s corporate team in Utah, these Canadian locations will have the same aesthetic, amenities, programming and membership offerings as the U.S. clubs.

“We recognized the tremendous competitive advantage that The Picklr has developed to address the opportunity for indoor pickleball facilities in the US.” said Bernie Plett, CEO of TPC Development. “We are confident that the Canadian market will benefit from the years of experience that is now available across Canada for professional pickleball facility design and construction, membership programs, customer experience,  venue sponsorships, merchandise and the full programming available to players of all ages and skill levels.”

“With our domestic strategy in full swing, heading into Canada as our first international expansion was a clear next step. With a goal of expanding into a minimum of 5 additional global markets by the end of 2025, it was hugely important to start with our neighbors to the north,” said Scott Schubiger, Chief Growth Officer at The Picklr. “Partnering with TPC  brings a wealth of success and experience to the table. Led by a proven executive team, they recognize  the accelerated adoption rate of pickleball in Canada as being on the same trajectory as that in the US. We are thrilled that Canadian players of all ages will soon benefit from the industry-leading premier indoor pickleball playing experience.”

The Picklr’s entry into the Canadian market is poised to meet the same fast growing demand for indoor pickleball facilities in the United States. Year to date, The Picklr has sold more than 390 locations in 42 states, with plans to open at least 30 new clubs in 2024 and an additional 70 in 2025. For more information about The Picklr and its network of North American clubs, please visit https://thepicklr.com.

ABOUT THE PICKLR:

The Picklr is North America’s fastest-growing network of premium indoor pickleball courts, offering an unparalleled experience for players of all skill levels. With more than 390 state-of-the-art clubs sold nationwide, The Picklr provides programs for beginners to pros, and a vibrant atmosphere. Membership to The Picklr includes access to all club locations nationwide, free court reservations, four clinics per month, and unlimited participation in leagues, competitive play/events and tournaments. Follow The Picklr on Instagram, X, LinkedIn, Facebook, and TikTok for news on locations and tournaments, or visit https://thepicklr.com/franchise/ to learn more about owning a franchise.

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ABOUT TPC DEVELOPMENT:

TPC Development Corporation is headquartered in Winnipeg, Manitoba. The company was founded by Bernie Plett who has a combined 40-year career in investment banking, finance and investment counseling and a love of sports, and Robert Lloyd, an experienced technology leader, education advocate, and sports investor with a distinguished career that includes serving as president of development and sales at Cisco Systems, and as CEO of Los Angeles based Virgin Hyperloop One. TPC brings a world-class team of investors and leadership to deliver an exceptional customer experience for Canadian Picklr franchisees and members alike.

SOURCE The Picklr

Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/


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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.

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4Joy Paddles

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.

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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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Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/

Hey, “People of Pickleball” fans! Looking for some great deals on the latest pickleball gear and services? We’ve got you covered! Just head over to this link https://stm-store.online/spr-episode-links/  for exclusive discounts crafted just for our listeners. Don’t miss out on elevating your game with top-notch pickleball essentials at amazing prices! https://stm-store.online/spr-episode-links

Tune in every week for engaging conversations, expert interviews, and the latest news in the pickleball world. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review to help us grow the community!

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Pickleball Kingdom Expands to Little Rock, AR

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Pickleball Kingdom
Pickleball Kingdom is coming to Little Rock, AR

Pickleball Kingdom Arrives

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. /PRNewswire/ — Pickleball Kingdom, the world’s largest indoor pickleball entity, announces its first-ever location in Arkansas, with a new facility coming to Little Rock. This marks an exciting milestone as Pickleball Kingdom expands into the state, offering local pickleball enthusiasts a premier venue to enjoy the sport year-round.

“We’re excited to bring Pickleball Kingdom to Arkansas,” said Ace Rodrigues, Founder and CEO of Pickleball Kingdom. “This expansion represents our ongoing commitment to providing world-class facilities and fostering vibrant communities centered around the sport of pickleball. And there’s no better place in Arkansas for us to plant our flag than in Little Rock.”

As a brand dedicated to promoting pickleball and creating community-driven environments, Pickleball Kingdom has earned its reputation as the premier indoor pickleball franchise. Offering climate-controlled courts, relaxing lounge areas, and comprehensive training programs, Pickleball Kingdom locations are designed to enhance the player experience.

Pickleball Kingdom
Pickleball Kingdom – Plano, TX

The Little Rock club will feature:

  • State-of-the-Art Indoor Courts: Designed to optimize playing conditions, blending outdoor surfaces with an indoor setting for year-round play.
  • Professional Coaching and Clinics: Customized for all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned players.
  • Youth Programs: Introducing the next generation to pickleball through engaging activities.
  • Leagues and Tournaments: Providing competitive opportunities for players to showcase their skills.
  • Community & Corporate Events: Bringing together local businesses and residents to foster connection and camaraderie.

“We are confident that our Little Rock location will become a hub for pickleball enthusiasts and a center for community-building,” said Rob Streett, COO of Pickleball Kingdom. “The Little Rock community has a strong appetite for active lifestyles, and we’re excited to meet that demand with our top-tier facilities.”

Opportunities for Franchisees

Pickleball Kingdom offers franchisees the highest industry AUV (average unit volume) per location, underscoring the strength of its business model and the comprehensive support provided to franchise owners.

As pickleball continues to surge in popularity, Pickleball Kingdom invites driven individuals to explore franchise opportunities and be part of this exciting growth. For more information on franchise opportunities, visit https://pickleballkingdom.com/franchise/.

For the latest updates and information, visit the Little Rock, AR Club Page: https://pickleballkingdom.com/little-rock-ar

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Follow Pickleball Kingdom on social media: FacebookInstagramLinkedIn

SOURCE Pickleball Kingdom Franchising

Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/


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