By Justin Maloof
USA PICKLEBALL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
DESPITE COVID-19 , IT ’ S BEEN A BUSY SUMMER FOR USA PICKLEBALL
Since the recent brand re-launch to
USA Pickleball , we have been working intensely on several exciting initiatives . In early August , we worked with our new official court surface partner , SportMaster Sport Surfaces , ThorSport Racing and Ben Rhodes No . 99 Ford Performance F-150 , showcasing the new USA Pickleball logo and brand re-launch at the Michigan International Speedway . The NASCAR Truck Series race aired to a national viewing audience on FS1 . The driver , Ben Rhodes , is a big pickleball fan and we were thrilled to see him represent USA Pickleball and our sport in this incredibly unique and exciting way !
Beginning in October , USA Pickleball is launching a new Official Club Membership for pickleball organizations , groups , and facilities . Official Club Memberships features affordable liability insurance coverage for the club and its participants for various pickleball programs and events hosted at their venue ( s ) throughout the year . By joining during this inaugural enrollment period , a USA Pickleball Official Club will also receive a USA Pickleball Official Club banner and a Pickleball Magazine subscription ! Enrollment begins in October with coverage starting at the beginning of 2021 . Visit
usapickleball . org / officialclub for more information on how to enroll and for updates .
Clearly , with so many exciting things happening at USA Pickleball , the new
usapickleball . org site is an excellent source of information to help you stay informed . Those new to the sport should be sure to visit our
WHAT IS PICKLEBALL ? page , featuring a new , animated video designed to build awareness and a very brief but easy-to-follow overview of the basics of the sport . Those looking for help adding courts should see our new
COURT CONSTRUCTION page , which is designed to help answer all court-related questions : basic specifications , do-it-yourself court options and even construction information . Those curious about the sport ’ s origin will be fascinated to read through our
HISTORY OF THE GAME page , which provides pickleball ’ s historical timeline .
Not a member yet ? Be sure to scroll to the bottom of
usapickleball . org and sign up to receive timely updates from USA Pickleball and the sport . •
OCTOBER / NOVEMBER 2020 | MAGAZINE 11