From the CEO
A
As we kick off 2025 , I am excited to share what ’ s ahead and how USA Pickleball is leading the charge . This year , we ’ re focusing on evolution , connection and giving back to the community , as well as continuing to support pickleball as the fastest-growing sport in America .
Advancing Equipment Standards
We remain committed to maintaining our position as the industry leader in equipment standards . With the introduction of Paddle / Ball Coefficient of Restitution , we have made enhancements to equipment testing , ensuring fair play while encouraging innovation .
Driving Membership Growth
The growth of pickleball is a testament to the passion and enthusiasm of its players , and 2025 is poised to be another record-breaking year for participation . We are focusing on expanding our membership by offering enhanced resources , benefits , and opportunities for players at all levels .
Excitement for Golden Ticket Tournaments
At Golden Ticket events , the nation ’ s top amateur players will compete for spots at the USA Pickleball National Championships . These tournaments bring the energy of pickleball to communities across the nation . We invite everyone — players and fans alike — to experience the excitement of these premier events .
Giving Back Through USA Pickleball Serves
Pickleball is more than just a game ; it ’ s a powerful way to bring people together and make a difference . Through our charitable arm USA Pickleball Serves , we use pickleball as a tool to uplift communities . In 2025 , we aim to expand our impact through our Grow the Game grant program .
Become an Ambassador
Our Ambassadors are the heart and soul of USA Pickleball . These volunteers have pledged to promote the sport of pickleball and USA Pickleball in their communities , guiding and developing programs that all can enjoy .
Rule Updates by MIKE NEALY
USA PICKLEBALL CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
The Official Pickleball Rulebook for has been released , and all rule updates took effect on Jan . 1 . The rulebook ensures consistency and fairness in how the game is played , reflecting the ongoing evolution of pickleball .
2024 USA PICKLEBALL BOARD OF DIRECTORS
BOARD CHAIRMAN Robert Quicksilver
BOARD VICE CHAIR Suzanne Guerin
AT-LARGE BOARD MEMBERS
Philip Bullen Mark Fabbro Andrew Feffer Bob Franceschelli
Ernie Medina Stephanie Russell Tori Stevens
USA PICKLEBALL STAFF
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Mike Nealy
CHIEF COMPETITION OFFICER Justin Maloof
CHIEF MARKETING & STRATEGY OFFICER Jose Moreno
CHIEF TECHNICAL OFFICER Carl Schmits
VICE PRESIDENT OF COMPETITION Steve Wong
VICE PRESIDENT OF MEMBERSHIP DEVELOPMENT & SERVICE
Chris Zukas
VICE PRESIDENT OF NATIONAL EVENTS Luke Underwood
VICE PRESIDENT & CONTROLLER Rose James
SENIOR DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING
Meredith Painter
SENIOR DIRECTOR OF PARTNERSHIPS Christian Portaro
MANAGING DIRECTOR OF FIELD OPERATIONS
Lance Cowart
MANAGING DIRECTOR OF LEGAL COMPLIANCE AND OFFICE ADMINISTRATION
Gail Avisar
MANAGING DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES
Julie Atherton
MANAGING DIRECTOR OF OFFICIATING Tom Tadler
DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS & STRATEGIC PROJECTS
Ashley VanOchten
DIRECTOR OF EVENT OPERATIONS Izzy Jade
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RELATIONS Brenda Puga
DIRECTOR OF TOURNAMENT OPERATIONS
Craig Haas
DIRECTOR OF PARTNERSHIP ACTIVATION
Nick Salute
As we move into another exciting year , I want to thank you for your dedication to pickleball . Whether you ’ re a player , fan , volunteer , ambassador or official , you make this sport special . Together , we ’ ll make 2025 another remarkable year for pickleball .
10 TO SUBSCRIBE , CALL 412.914.8294 OR GO TO PICKLEBALLMAGAZINE . COM USAPICKLEBALL . ORG