From the CEO
A
As the year winds down , I want to take a moment to reflect on the incredible accomplishments of 2024 and share some exciting updates for the future of pickleball . Together , we ’ ve reached new heights , and I couldn ’ t be more optimistic about what lies ahead for our sport .
A Nationals to Remember
This year ’ s Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships was nothing short of extraordinary . Hosted for the first time at the state-of-the-art Arizona Athletic Grounds , the event brought together thousands of players and fans for a celebration of competition , camaraderie and community .
The tournament saw thrilling matches across all divisions , from Juniors to Masters and the first-ever wheelchair competition , with players showcasing the skill , athleticism and sportsmanship that define pickleball . The energy on the courts and in the stands was electric , from first-round matches all the way to the final trophy .
One of the highlights was the debut of The Founder ’ s Legacy Cup , a beautiful new trophy honoring the history of the game . It was a powerful reminder of how each moment in our sport builds on the foundation of those who came before us . It was inspiring to see competitors take their position on the podium and secure their own place in pickleball history .
We also hosted a variety of special events , including the Dinks for a Difference Celebrity Pickleball Match presented by Lerner & Rowe , featuring stars like Joey Fatone , Jake Plummer , Eric Decker and Amy Van Dyken . Their participation , along with the overwhelming support from fans , made this event a huge success and helped raise funds for USA Pickleball Serves .
USA Pickleball also hosted clinics for veterans and youth and donated a new pickleball court to a local nonprofit .
Golden Ticket by MIKE NEALY
USA PICKLEBALL CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
As we look toward 2025 , there ’ s even more to be excited about , including our Golden Ticket Tournaments . These premier events will provide players with the chance to secure spots at next year ’ s Nationals while bringing competition to communities across the country .
Golden Tickets are designed to enhance the competitive pathway , providing opportunities for both elite players and those aiming to test their skills at the highest level for a chance to secure their path to Nationals .
More on the Horizon
As I reflect on the past year , I ’ m filled with gratitude for our incredible USA Pickleball community . From players and volunteers to staff and fans , it ’ s your dedication and enthusiasm that fuel the growth of this sport .
Together , we ’ ve achieved so much , and I know the best is yet to come . As we head into the new year , let ’ s continue to work together to grow , celebrate and enjoy this wonderful game . Thank you for being part of this journey , and I look forward to seeing you on the courts in the new year !
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
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