Inside Rally Pickleball’s Plan to Become the Topgolf of Pickleball

Rally Pickleball, a new player in the booming pickleball market, is setting its sights on becoming the Topgolf of pickleball. With high-tech enhancements, delicious food, and a strong focus on design, Rally aims to revolutionize the pickleball experience. The company launched its first location in Charlotte, North Carolina, in 2023, featuring eight indoor and outdoor courts, two restaurants, a coffee shop, co-working spaces, and private event areas. With plans to expand to Denver, Nashville, and D.C., Rally is betting on its patent-pending gamification technology to stand out in a crowded market.

At Rally Pickleball, players can expect a tech-enhanced experience from the moment they step onto the court. Players check in using a touchscreen kiosk, choosing from a range of inclusive avatars. The gameplay includes standard pickleball as well as custom games designed for casual players, with digital touches like animated avatars and automated scorekeeping. The company’s technology uses cameras and a custom computer vision system to track the ball and ensure accurate gameplay, similar to tennis’s Hawk-Eye system.

Founded by former professional pickleball player Megan Charity and game developer Barrett Worthington, Rally Pickleball combines their expertise in sports and technology. The concept evolved from their previous venture, Weigo, and a successful pickleball festival called Pickle Fest. Rally Pickleball aims to create a social and entertaining atmosphere where friends and family can enjoy the game, delicious food, and unique gaming experiences, making it a go-to destination for pickleball enthusiasts and newcomers alike.