Las Vegas Hosts Inaugural World Pickleball Convention

The first annual World Pickleball Convention took place this past weekend at the Las Vegas Convention Center. The event featured 20 panel sessions, dozens of speakers, a vendor exhibition, and a pickleball tournament played on temporary courts within the convention hall. Industry leaders and visionaries gathered in Vegas to discuss the state of the sport and its future.

Carl Foster, a prominent figure in the pickleball community, organized and emceed the conference. His efforts brought together many influential leaders, fostering networking and insightful discussions. The convention kicked off with a "State of the Sport" speech by USA Pickleball Chairman Robert Quicksilver, who highlighted the sport's growth, ongoing initiatives, and the value proposition of USA Pickleball. Key points included the sport's 225% three-year growth in the US, demographic shifts, and updates on equipment testing and rules.

A panel discussion by the Global Pickleball Federation covered international growth and Olympic aspirations, noting the challenges of equipment availability and organizational development. Innovation in paddle technology was another hot topic, with discussions on new testing methodologies to ensure fair play and enhance player performance.

The convention also featured discussions on athlete branding and representation, highlighting the importance of social media influence and brand partnerships. Insights were shared on player income distribution, with the emergence of professional contracts significantly impacting the financial landscape for top players.

The event provided a comprehensive overview of the sport’s current state and future directions, emphasizing the collaborative efforts needed to sustain and grow pickleball globally.