July/August
2024
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SPORT REPORT / PICKLEBALL
Pickleball: The Social Sport Driving Brand Engagement
At the Galentine’s Day pickleball tournament.
Pickleball, America’s fastest-growing sport, isn’t just about the game itself. It’s a lifestyle, a social phenomenon that’s attracting a growing number of brands eager to connect with consumers in a meaningful way.

One standout event that perfectly illustrates this synergy was June Diane Raphael’s Galentine’s Day Celebrity Pickleball Tournament hosted in Los Angeles, California. June Diane Raphael invited her celebrity friends to join her on the court while allowing fans to purchase tickets and get the chance to play alongside some of their favorite stars. The event also drew a large audience of fans and celebrities dressed to impress as June Diane Raphael, Casey Wilson, Jessica St. Clair, and Danielle Schneider provided comedic commentary throughout the day.

This star-studded affair, featuring the likes of Jessica St. Clair, Emma Watson, Retta, and Paul Scheer, was more than just a fun day out – it was a showcase for how brands can seamlessly integrate into the pickleball lifestyle, providing memorable experiences for the fans.

Pickleball in the Sun had the honor of bringing OS1st to the forefront of this event. Their colorful and stylish socks weren’t just a fashion statement; they represented a commitment to player health and injury prevention. This partnership demonstrated how brands can connect with consumers in a fun and unique way, emphasizing both performance and style.

OS1st continues to lead the way in pickleball marketing, partnering with Major League Pickleball as the Official Sock and launching custom socks for each team. This move allows fans to rally behind their team on and off the court, fostering a deeper connection between the sport, the brand, and the community.

Working with numerous celebrities and brands across the country has been an incredible experience. Pickleball’s appeal lies in its approachability; even celebrities are eager to be part of the community. This sport is all about community, fun, and social connection, making it a marketer’s dream. With over 50 million fans sharing the same passion, pickleball offers a unique opportunity to connect brands with a multi-generational audience.

From celebrity tournaments to grassroots events, pickleball provides a vibrant platform for brands to engage with consumers in an authentic and meaningful way. As the sport continues to grow, so too will the opportunities for brands to tap into this passionate and engaged community. It’s an exciting time to be part of the pickleball world, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for this dynamic sport and the brands that embrace its spirit.

Ready to elevate your brand through the power of pickleball?

Pickleball in the Sun is your partner in creating fun, unique experiences that not only resonate with consumers but also drive them to retail and online platforms to purchase your products. We understand the unique energy of pickleball and how to translate it into engaging content that will have your brand trending on TikTok and beyond.

From celebrity partnerships to grassroots initiatives, we’ll craft a strategy that aligns with your brand values and resonates with the pickleball community. Let’s harness the passion of this incredible sport to tell your brand story and create lasting connections with consumers. n

Laura Gainor is the founder of Pickleball in the Sun, PickleballintheSun.com, @pickleballinthesun. Contact her via email at [email protected].

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