13 min
Pickleball has taken the country by storm, with new clubs and franchises popping up everywhere. The sport’s explosive growth has created exciting opportunities, but many club owners are quickly discovering that simply opening their doors isn’t enough to guarantee success. Filling courts during weekdays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., as well as on weekend afternoons and evenings, can be surprisingly difficult. The old adage “if you build it, they will come” falls short in today’s competitive market. Instead, successful clubs are finding creative ways to draw in players, maximize space, and boost their bottom line.
Create a flexible space with roll-away nets
One way clubs are embracing flexibility is by investing in roll-away nets. These nets allow pickleball courts to be transformed into multi-purpose spaces, opening the door for a range of new activities. Imagine a large indoor space that can host soccer and basketball practices on the weekends. The ability to pivot from one activity to another makes it easier to keep the courts busy and the revenue flowing.
Host Social Events
Events also play a significant role in creating a vibrant, profitable club environment. Themed social events, for example, combine pickleball with food, drink, and music, offering players a chance to mix, mingle, and enjoy a festive atmosphere. Singles events cater to those looking to meet new partners both on and off the court, while fundraisers bring people together for a good cause. Corporate events, with their team-building activities and friendly competition, are another lucrative opportunity. Some clubs go even further by hosting multi-activity events, where players can enjoy games like cornhole or ping-pong alongside pickleball, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Offer Tournaments and Leagues
Tournaments and leagues are another tried-and-true strategy for filling courts. A well-run tournament can turn a quiet weekend into a bustling, revenue-generating spectacle. By offering different draws for various ages and skill levels, clubs can attract a broad range of players. Leagues, on the other hand, provide a steady stream of engagement, keeping members connected and returning week after week.
Hire Coaches to Provide Quality Lessons and Clinics
Beyond events, instructional programs offer a valuable way to boost revenue. Private lessons cater to players looking for one-on-one coaching, while group lessons and clinics create fun, exercise-based learning experiences. Clinics that blend fitness and skill-building are particularly popular, transforming busy hours into highly profitable blocks of time.
Start Building a Junior Program
Another essential revenue driver is a robust junior program. In tennis clubs, junior programs often form the backbone of financial success, and the same principle applies to pickleball. With the sport gaining traction in schools and colleges, it makes sense to introduce younger players to pickleball early. Structured junior programs can effectively fill courts during after-school hours, between 3:30 p.m. and 6 p.m. Clubs can make these sessions even more engaging by incorporating other activities, such as strength and agility obstacle courses or hand-eye coordination drills. Roll-away nets provide the necessary flexibility to create these dynamic training environments.
Rent Your Facility During Off-Peak Times
Finally, facility rentals offer a way to generate income beyond standard pickleball programming. With the adaptability provided by roll-away nets, a pickleball club can transform into a venue for parties and community gatherings. Sports practices for indoor soccer or basketball become additional options, keeping the space lively and profitable during off-peak hours.
Success in the pickleball business requires thinking beyond the game itself. The most thriving clubs are those that innovate, adapt, and create compelling experiences. By embracing versatility, hosting dynamic events, and developing comprehensive programs, you can ensure your club not only survives but flourishes in this rapidly growing industry. Don’t just build it—actively design an environment where players feel inspired to come, stay, and keep coming back.
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