2025 Speakers

Bahigh Acuna

Co-Founder

PlayKout

Bahigh Acuna has been a catalyst in scaling new concepts during their growth stages, contributing to industries such as AI enterprise software, media streaming, e-commerce, and biotech while holding leadership positions at companies like Spotify, Postmates, Ancestry, and Amazon. Now, he is bringing that expertise to sports tech. Alongside co-founder Jorge Guerrero, they developed a first-of-its-kind pickleball simulator—a proprietary, patent pending system designed for all racquet sports and skill levels. This innovative system, which requires less space than a ping pong table, brings pickleball to previously inaccessible locations. They are now deploying simulators in clubs, schools, office buildings, and entertainment venues to expand the reach of the game.

Jason Aspes

President

UPA-A

Jason Aspes is a seasoned creative leader and entrepreneur. With over 20 years of experience as an award-winning creative director, he built his career at some of the world’s top advertising agencies, including Ogilvy & Mather, Leo Burnett, and D’Arcy. Jason spent 12 years of his career in Asia, where he held regional and global roles on Nike, Motorola, and IHG, shaping brand narratives on a worldwide scale. After returning to the U.S. in 2013, he became Global Creative Director for IHG at WPP, leading high-impact campaigns across multiple disciplines and markets. In 2010 Jason co-founded Newton Circus, an innovations company in Singapore focused on social and environmental sustainability. A lifelong basketball player, Jason discovered pickleball when the pandemic shut down indoor sports. That passion quickly grew into something more. He co-founded The Kitchen, the largest community in pickleball, and the performance-driven pickleball apparel brand, Wringer Wear. In May 2024, Jason was named the President of UPA-A, the governing body overseeing professional competition at PPA and MLP. Under his leadership, UPA-A is setting new standards for paddle regulation, innovation, and fair play at the professional level.

Tim Bainton

COO

Epic Padel

In addition to being the COO of Epic Padel, Bainton is also the President of Blue Chip Sports Management and is considered one of the leading authorities on sports facility operations and management in the world. He has published three books and over one hundred published articles covering the business aspects of the sports industry. He is a professor at Marymount University in the college of BILT. He has been a keynote speaker across the globe and featured in major news outlets for his work in the Sports Industry. He has been featured on the cover of Club Business International and had a featured column in Club Solutions Magazine. He currently serves on the Advisory Board for St Jude's Children's Hospital. Bainton holds an undergraduate degree in Economics from George Mason and has graduate degrees in Business and Sports Industry Management from Georgetown. He is also a doctoral candidate in Business Intelligence through the Marymount college of BILT. Bainton was a heavily recruited, nationally ranked junior in his native England, going on to play on a full scholarship at Division I George Mason University. He resides in alexandria with Chrissy and their daughter Hattie.

Tom Barnes

Co-Owner & Director of R&D and LABS

Selkirk Sport

Tom Barnes, Co-Owner and Director of R&D at Selkirk Sport Pickleball, finding new paths forward in pickleball equipment design, manufacturing, and quality. After serving in the Marine Corps and dropping to the Reserves, he returned to Coeur d'Alene, ID to launch manufacturing in house for Selkirk. Still in Idaho with his wife and their two children, Tom channels his passion for technology and advanced manufacturing into developing new materials and processes for pickleball. He is committed to building a world-class R&D ecosystem and lean, cutting-edge manufacturing. Tom focuses on U.S. pickleball manufacturing, equipment standards, and the sport's longevity, advancing Selkirk through first principles thinking and vertical integration of operations.

Jorge Barragan

CEO

The Picklr

Jorge Barragan is the CEO and Co-Founder of The Picklr Inc. He's also part owner of MLP's California BLQK Bears. Experienced in Enterprise Software Sales, Jorge has been a key part of a company that saw an IPO and two successful exits. In 2020, long before the indoor pickleball craze began, he envisioned a place where people could enjoy this sport year-round. Teaming up with his best friend, Austin, they've turned this vision into a reality, now with seven locations and 80+ franchisees across the country.nBeyond business, Jorge is a family man, a father of six, and married to Saydee Barragan. A sports enthusiast who enjoys playing pickleball and golf.

Nick Bicanic

CEO

Reload Pickleball

Nick started mixing sports and tech at an early age. He played Basketball at the European Junior Championships and was also awarded a young Nobel prize for optical athletic movement analysis, prior to studying at Cambridge University. He is a multi-award winning filmmaker and he founded, ran and sold several companies – raising funds from high profile VC firms like Google Ventures and Lockheed Martin Ventures. He invents things regularly and has more than 10 patents in the fields of Camera Accessories, Augmented Reality and Sporting Goods. He also plays guitar, sings, windsurfs, skis, eats granny smith apples and corrects typos in emails. He started playing pickleball in 2022 and quickly identified a key problem in the sport, the fact that paddles degrade very fast. He is the CEO, Creator and Co-Founder of Reload Pickleball, the world's first high performance pickleball paddle system with a replaceable surface.

Jethro Binns

Co-CEO

LevelTech

Jethro Binns is transforming how racket sports measure performance. A seasoned entrepreneur and former professional squash player, he has dedicated his career to driving innovation in sports technology. Originally from Abergavenny, Wales, he reached a career-high world ranking of 84 before a serious on-court injury led him to pivot towards business and technology. In 2012, he founded SquashSkills, now the world’s largest online squash coaching platform. In 2018, he joined forces with Richard Bickers to develop SquashLevels, the official global squash rating system, endorsed by both the Professional Squash Association (PSA) and the World Squash Federation (WSF). Recognizing the opportunity to revolutionize racket sports beyond squash, they co-founded LevelTech, building a scalable rating algorithm and platform designed to support multiple racket sports. The underlying technology powers sport-specific rating systems—such as PadelLevels, launched in 2024—offering tailored solutions that enhance matchmaking, competition structures, and player development across different sports. With LevelTech continuing to expand, the vision is clear: to set the global standard for performance ratings across all racket sports, ensuring fair competition and meaningful progression for players at every level. Beyond his work in sports technology, Jethro is a keen fly fisherman and DJ, based in Bristol.

Joshua Brookstein

Partner

Sahn Ward

Mr. Brookstein is a partner in the firm’s Land Use and Municipal Law practice, specializing in zoning and land use planning across Long Island. He represents developers, municipalities, religious institutions, and health systems, securing approvals for residential, commercial, and nonprofit projects. Previously, he served as Assistant Corporation Counsel for the NYC Law Department’s Family Court Division, handling felony and misdemeanor cases, including in the Special Victims Unit. Before practicing law, he spent nearly a decade as a teacher and Assistant Principal with the NYC Department of Education. Mr. Brookstein has been recognized as a New York Metro Super Lawyer in General Litigation and Land Use/Zoning and was a 40 Under 40 honoree by Long Island Business News. He is an active member of the Nassau County Bar Association and chairs its School Engagement Subcommittee. He holds degrees from Muhlenberg College, Fordham University, Bank Street College of Education, and earned his law degree from New York Law School, where he was the Student Commencement Speaker and an Arthur Abbey Public Service Fellow.

Andre Brown

Co-Founder / Head of Business Development / Brand Strategy & Marketing.

Padel Up

As a professional, Andre Brown comes from a unique background of entertainment and sports. Having worked at ICM Partners and WME/Endeavor, he has a rich understanding of what moves the entertainment industry. As the operations lead at the World Surf League over the past 4 years, Andre has positioned himself as a Swiss Army knife, someone who gets it done. Traveling the world on the “Dream Tour” facilitating large scale surf events has given Andre a practical crash course in international business and what it takes to make everything run in sync. If you can build it on a beach, you can build it anywhere. Within Padel Up, Andre sits across the Business Development / Brand Strategy & Marketing Functions. As someone who does not come from the racquet sports world, Andre provides a fresh perspective on how to operate in this unique environment. Over the past two years, Andre and the Padel Up team have positioned themselves as leaders in the Los Angeles market and are poised for expansion.

Chandler Carney

Board Member

Global Pickleball Federation

Chandler Carney is an attorney with a strong background in both sports and immigration. A former Division I and II volleyball player, she later represented the United States in padel, competing internationally in Paraguay and Brazil. Now a key figure in pickleball, Chandler is a member of the Chilean national team and played a pivotal role in securing a fourth-place finish at the inaugural Pickleball World Cup in Peru. She currently serves on the board of the Global Pickleball Federation and chairs the legal committee, driving efforts to expand the sport across Latin America and the world. As an entrepreneur, she leads pickleball business ventures and club development, including KONDOR Pickleball and Pickleball UC by KONDOR, further advancing the sport’s reach and growth.

Luigi Carraro

President

International Padel Federation (FIP)

Luigi Carraro is the President of the FIP, first elected in 2018. He was re-elected in 2021 and, most recently, in 2024 with the support of all federations and international institutions. He is also the Vice Chairman of Premier Padel. Luigi Carraro is part of the Executive Board of the Padel Commission of the Italian Tennis and Padel Federation (FITP) and Member of the National Council of the Italian National Olympic Committee (CONI). As a major leader in the world of padel, one of his biggest ambitions in his role with the FIP is to make padel an Olympic sport.

Jarrett Chirico

Director of Racquets

Royal Oaks Country Club

Jarrett Chirico is the Director of Racquets at Royal Oaks Country Club in Dallas, TX and the President and Founder of The Directors Club of America, which is home to largest network of industry leaders in the hospitality industry. Jarrett has directed numerous top-tier Racquets programs in the country including the largest, most notable in the hospitality industry at Royal Oaks Country Club. He has an extensive background as both a director and former player, as well as a leader, author and keynote speaker across the world. As a junior, he was ranked top 20 in the world and number 1 in the US in every age group. He played NCAA at the University of Virginia, and world team tennis for the Philadelphia Freedoms. Jarrett was awarded Professional Tennis Registry’s (PTR) Professional/Member of the year by Racquet Sports Industry (RSI) magazine and Professional Pickleball Registry’s (PPR) 2020 and 2022 Pro of the year as well as being one of the 2020 and 2022 Champions of Pickleball and 2023 PTR Texas pro of the year. In addition, he holds certifications from the CRSE, USPTA, PTR, PPR, PPTR, RPO and the PPTA as well as being a national pickleball (PPR) clinician and former Vice Chairman. Jarrett is also a published author in numerous professional publications including a regular at BoardRoom Magazine and a keynote speaker nationally. He has spoken at the 2019, 2020 and 2021 International PTR Tennis Symposium, 2020 Racquets and Paddle Show, multiple USPTA and CMAA events and the 2020, 2021 and 2022 national CMAA conferences to name a few. Additionally, Jarrett was featured on the cover of Club & Resort Business Magazine in December of 2024 being named The King of the Court. In 2022, Jarrett founded The Directors' Club which is the largest platform/community of leaders with the sole purpose to help people go further and do better together. The Directors' Club has over 300 clubs and 1,000 + Leaders across North America and expanding into Europe. Jarrett has an extensive background in all aspects of racquet sports management including budgeting and projections; programming; marketing; maintenance; strategic planning; facility design; and pro shop management. He is one of the leading Director of Racquets in the United States with a passion for educating and mentoring the next generation of leadership in the Racquets industry.

Pedro Clavería

Founder & Chief Strategy Officer

Playtomic

Pedro Clavería began his career at Tuenti, later joining Rocket Internet in Colombia and Munich, followed by founding and serving as CEO of Cuponation in Madrid. Entrepreneurship has been a way of life for Pedro since his youth. His expertise in developing businesses led to the creation of Playtomic. Pedro studied Business Administration and Marketing at ESIC, and he is currently Chief Strategy Officer (CSO) of Playtomic, leading the company’s global growth and expansion strategy.

Andrew Cordova

Racquets Director

Maryland Club

Andrew Cordova is the Racquets Director at the Maryland Club in Baltimore, Maryland. With over 30+ years in the Hospitality and Racquets industries, he is passionate about building relationships and creating exclusive experiences in the racquets world. He specializes in program creation, national and international events, and fundraising. He is dedicated to crafting the ultimate experience for his members and guests. He is a former world top 20 touring professional in doubles squash, and is a member of the Maryland State Squash Hall of Fame. Andrew has a BA from Fordham University and a MS in Recreation and Sports Management from Western Kentucky University.

Iris Cordova

General Manager

Global Sports Innovation Center powered by Microsoft​

Iris Cordoba is a leader in sports innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology. Since 2015, she has led the Global Sports Innovation Center powered by Microsoft, fostering a global ecosystem of 200+ companies. With a background in law and economics, she has worked extensively in public-private initiatives supporting SMEs and cultural industries. Recognized among the most influential women in sports and tech, she has received numerous accolades, including rankings in Spain’s Top 100 Women Leaders and Singapore’s 100 Women in Tech. Iris is also a frequent speaker, mentor, and advisory board member in the global sports industry.

Gregory Cotton

Founder

TouchTennis Premier League (TTPL)

Dr. Gregory L. Cotton is a visionary sports entrepreneur and the driving forcenbehind the rise of touchtennis in the United States. As the organizer of thentouchtennis U.S. Open and the founder of the newly formed touchtennis PremiernLeague (TPL), he is dedicated to expanding the sport at the high school, college,nand professional levels. With a deep passion for innovation, Dr. Cotton isnpositioning touchtennis as an Olympic sport and a key player in the evolving sportsnbetting landscape. His efforts to grow the game have attracted global players,ncorporate partners, and institutions eager to embrace this exciting and accessible racquet sport. Dr. Cotton is married and is the proud father of four outstanding young men.

Curtis Cruz

Founder and President

C Squared Ventures

Curtis Cruz is the Founder and President at C Squared Ventures and Lead Engineer at Pro Pickle Labs (PPL), a leading independent equipment testing organization in the pickleball industry. With over two decades of experience in sporting goods, Curtis has held significant roles, including Director of Product Development at a major sports equipment company and long-term consultant for various leading sporting goods brands.

Alyssa DeVore

Co-Founder

Paru

Alyssa DeVore is co-founder of Paru, a membership agency and consulting group - effectively the other half to the operation. With over 20 years experience in luxury hospitality and retail marketing and sales (and a few years within the USTA), she plays a pivotal role for organizations in shaping premium membership experiences, marketing & sales strategy, member/guest engagement, and operational leadership development, frequently traveling to both well-known clubs and hidden gems around the world. Her expertise spans luxury private clubs, athletic clubs, hotels, restaurant groups, coworking spaces and lifestyle brands, successfully building a startup brand; rebuilding + repositioning challenger brands; and reigniting legacy brands. Alyssa's recent work includes the successful creation and development of award-winning Fitler Club in Philadelphia and reigniting the historic Los Angeles Athletic Club brand for expansive growth under new ownership. Alyssa lives in Center City Philadelphia with her husband and 2 daughters.

Jose Manuel Delgado

Co-CEO

AFP Courts

Jose Manuel Delgado is the co-founder and co-CEO of AFP Courts, a company renowned for its expertise in designing, manufacturing, and exporting padel courts. As the global licensee for adidas padel courts, AFP Courts has solidified its position as a leader in the industry. With a degree in Physical Education, a Master's in Marketing, and a Master's in Management of Sports Facilities, Jose Manuel is based in the Barcelona area. With nearly two decades of experience, he has successfully led AFP Courts to become a global reference in the design, production, and commercialization of padel courts. The company has installed over 4,000 courts across 54 countries and boasts a network of 25 distributors on five continents.

Erica Desai

Co-Founder and Co-CEO

CityPickle

Erica is the Co-Founder and Co-CEO of CityPickle, the leading urban pickleball lifestyle brand. CityPickle opened New York City’s first indoor pickleball club, including a bar and restaurant, and operates venues across the City, including the iconic courts at Central Park’s Wollman Rink. CityPickle operates seasonal courts in Philadelphia and West Palm Beach and is poised for further national expansion. Erica's professional career has always focused on health and wellness. Her experience includes roles at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and the NYC Health Department. Erica received her BA from University of Pennsylvania and her MPA from NYU. She lives in NYC with her husband and two teenagers. She always packs her pickleball paddle when traveling!

Brian Dillman

CEO

RSPA

Brian Dillman is the CEO of the Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA), formerly the USPTA. A transformative leader, he led the organization’s rebrand, expanding its scope beyond tennis to include pickleball, padel, squash, and platform tennis. Under his leadership, RSPA has become the leading authority in racquet sports certification and career development. Named Racquet Sports Industry magazine’s 2024 Person of the Year, Brian brings over two decades of experience in sporting goods, fitness, and fashion, including leadership roles at Wilson Sporting Goods, miha bodytec, Cervelo Bicycles, Peter Millar, and Rodd & Gunn. A former nationally ranked junior and collegiate tennis player, his deep industry knowledge continues to shape the future of racquet sports.

Dr. Patrick Drane

Technical Program Manager

UMass Lowell

Patrick Drane, Ph.D., has been a researcher and supported a variety of research operations within the Mechanical and Industrial Engineering Department for more than two decades. Currently, he is the Assistant Director of the Baseball Research Center, the Assistant Director for Operations for WindSTAR (an NSF Industry-University Cooperative Research Center (I/UCRC) focused on wind energy), the Assistant Director of the UMass Lowell Center for Energy Innovation, and the technical program manager for SHAP3D (an NSF I/UCRC focused on heterogeneous 3D printing). Additionally, he supports other projects in the mechanical and industrial engineering department in the areas of composites, textiles, and impact of helmets.

Winston Du

Tennis Content Creator

The Challenge Court

My name is Winston and I've been playing tennis my whole life but started my YouTube channel in 2021. I specialize in matchplay content and am passionate about every match I put together. I've been able to meet a lot of people through it and play a lot of tennis. And it's opened up cool opportunities like coming to Miami for the RacquetX conference. Can't wait to meet some of you there!

Robyn Duda

CEO

RacquetX

Robyn Duda is an award-winning event strategist, experience designer, and thought leader who has worked with some of the most recognized brands in the world including Coca-Cola, Spotify, Visa, and IBM. Her nearly 20 years of work has inspired, innovated, and harnessed growth for her clients by focusing on how we connect in the changing world. She is the co-founder of RacquetX, the world’s first festival of thought, connection, and experiential learning for businesses and consumers of racquet sports. With a clear vision for reinventing the future of events, Robyn is requested to speak all over the world and has been seen in The New York Times, Entrepreneur, Fox Business, Glamour, Folio, and BizBash. She also works with the next generation of creators as an Instructor at Emory University’s Center for Innovation and is an advisor for several organizations in the event and technology spaces.

Martin Echegaray

Education Consultant & Lead Clinician

Padel Coaches Registry (PCR)

Martín Echegaray is a highly respected padel coach and sports educator with a career spanning decades at the highest levels of the sport. He was one of the first professional coaches in padel history, guiding legendary players like Reca-Nerone, JM Díaz, and Paco Navarro. He has held the unique distinction of serving as the National Team Coach for both Argentina and Spain, the two nations that have defined the elite landscape of padel. As Technical Director of the Spanish Padel Federation (2006-2017), Martín led High Performance, Juniors, Education, and Development programs, launching key initiatives that fueled the growth of Spanish padel. A recognized expert in sports education, he is the author of "Simplemente Pádel", the "Téctica" series, and the Simply Padel podcast. He has also worked as a consultant for federations and clubs worldwide and contributed to the official certification of padel coaching in Spain. With a deep commitment to the sport’s development, Martín continues to shape the future of padel through education, coaching, and innovation.

Boris Fetbroyt

Director of racquets

The Philadelphia Cricket Club

Boris’s ambition, drive, and vision have shaped a progressive career in the private club racquets industry. Currently serving as the Director of Racquets at The Philadelphia Cricket Club, Boris brings over 18 years of expertise in developing racquets programs and organizing National Championships for Tennis and Platform Tennis. A dedicated leader in the field, Boris is the President of the RSPA Middle States Board of Directors and actively contributes to several national RSPA committees. His professional achievements include being recognized as the 2015 U30 USPTA Mid-Atlantic Pro of the Year and the 2018 and 2019 USPTA Virginia Pro of the Year. An established voice in the industry, Boris is a regular contributor to BoardRoom Magazine and Racquets Industry Magazine, where he shares insights on racquets program management and innovation. He has also led conferences and certification workshops, mentoring the next generation of racquet professionals. Certified in Tennis, Platform Tennis, Pickleball, and Padel, Boris advocates for an integrated racquets program that enhances social engagement, skill development, and overall enjoyment for club members. As a former Division I All-American student-athlete for the University ofnMaryland Men’s Tennis Team, Boris achieved the rare distinction of being inducted into thenUniversity of Maryland Athletics Hall of Fame in 2021. Boris holds a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Maryland, a Master’s in Sports Management from Georgetown University, and a Certificate in Business Foundations from the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School.

Rafael Filippini

Founder & CEO

Gearbox Sports

Rafael Filippini is the founder and CEO of Gearbox Sports. A composites expert with over 30 years in the industry, Rafael’s journey began in racquetball, where he excelled as an athlete on the pro tour and engineered leading racquetball racquets and accessories. His passion for racquet and paddle sports has driven him to innovate relentlessly, challenging norms and pushing the boundaries of what players expect from their gear. As the driving force behind Gearbox, Rafael's patented technologies have transformed the sport of pickleball, redefining consumer expectations in paddle design. Since its inception in 2007, Gearbox has remained at the forefront of sports technology, providing cutting-edge products in racquetball, pickleball, paddleball, and squash.

Tim Gerrits

Executive Vice President

GMB Architecture

Tim Gerrits leads the Sports practice at GMB, with an emphasis on turf fields and tennis facility design. He has combined his background in landscape architecture and planning with a passion for sports and competition. With over 25 years of experience, he’s helped design over 45 tennis facilities, including over 175 post-tensioned courts.

Marco Giberti

Founder & CEO

Vesuvio Ventures

Marco is a successful entrepreneur and investor with over 25 years of intensivenexperience in media, technology, and the live events industry. He is the Founder andnCEO of Vesuvio Ventures, where he works with startups, Venture and Private Equityninvestors, and corporate innovators serving as a coach, advisor, interim executive,nboard member, or angel investor (or a combination thereof). After several years in a successful career as a corporate executive at Apple, Marco pursued his entrepreneurial ambitions and became: • Co-founder and Board Member of Mind Opener, a leading publishing group in Latin America that was later sold to British Pearson Media Group, and • Co-founder and Board Member of e-mind, an internet and media communications company that was sold to Liberty Media. • President, CEO and co-founder of Mind Trainer (later Reed Exhibitions), a firm specializing in the organization of major regional trade-shows and events that was soldnto Reed Elsevier after a successful long-term joint venture. Marco is a Harvard Business School OPM Graduate, and member of YPO, the Young Presidents Organization and a frequent speaker at industry conferences. He is also a co-author of the best-selling books The Face of Digital focused on how digital technologies are changing the live events business industry and Reinventing Live about the “Always-On” future of live events. He is the host and speaker at the Leaderpass Business of Events Masterclass program.

Isis Gill-Reid

CEO & Founder

SG Next Level Tennis

Isis Gill-Reid is a high-performance tennis coach, ITF Tour Coach, and the Founder & CEO of SG Next Level Tennis, an organization dedicated to increasing access and equity in tennis for girls of color. A former Division 1 athlete and top-100 nationally ranked junior player, Isis has firsthand experience navigating the challenges of competitive tennis as a young Black woman. She is committed to breaking down barriers in the sport and helping female athletes leverage tennis for higher education and career opportunities. As an ITF Tour Coach, Isis works with top junior players competing on the international stage. Under her leadership, SG Next Level specializes in consulting aspiring collegiate tennis players, guiding young female athletes and their families through the complexities of recruitment and development. Her work has already secured nearly $1 million in scholarships for girls pursuing college tennis. Recognized as a Forbes 2024 BLK Change Maker, Isis is passionate about empowering the next generation of female athletes through mentorship, education, and access to resources. She actively works to ensure that girls in sports have the opportunities, confidence, and support to thrive—on the court, in the classroom, and beyond.nn

Santiago Gomez

Founder & CEO

Padel Haus

Born and raised in Mexico City, Santiago began his career as an investment banker at UBS before transitioning into the hospitality industry. He co-founded Cosme and ATLA, two of New York City’s most acclaimed restaurants, earning multiple awards and recognition on prestigious lists such as San Pellegrino’s World’s 50 Best and The New York Times’ Restaurant of the Year. A passionate padel player for over 20 years, Santiago was inspired during the global pandemic to pivot from the restaurant industry. He sold his restaurant business and launched Padel Haus, now the leading padel operator in the US. With three locations in New York City and one in Nashville, Padel Haus is expanding rapidly, with new clubs under construction in Atlanta, Denver, and Greenpoint (NYC). By the end of 2025, Padel Haus will have six locations across the US.

Matt Grayson

Athletic Director

Ansley Golf Club

Ansley Golf Club’s Athletic/ Director of Tennis, Matt Grayson, played most of his tennisncareer in Texas, but his family members are native Georgians. He is a graduate fromnBaylor University (1994) with degrees in Business Broadcasting and marketing. Whilenattending school, he played tennis as a walk on and played men’s volleyball for thenuniversity for two years as well. As a summer job, he played on the Jose Cuervo BeachnVolleyball Tour. This was a two-on-two professional beach volleyball tour in Florida. Matt has spent his entire teaching career in the Atlanta area. He began as an assistant tennis professional at Atlanta Country Club and Atlanta Athletic Club and then moved to Laurel Springs as the head tennis professional in 1997. In 2003, Matt joined the Country Club of Roswell staff as the head tennis professional and moved into the director role in 2004. In 2009, Matt restructured the club’s management and took over as the Director of Racquets and Athletics. As of 2012, he now coordinates the tennis, fitness, aquatic and youth care programs at the Ansley Golf Club in mid-town Atlanta. Matt is certified with the United States Professional Tennis Association as an Elite Professional and has served on many boards and committees on the local and southern levels. Matt was honored as the Head Professional of the Year 1999-2002 by the Georgia Professional Tennis Association and as the Southern Professional of the Year by the USPTA in 2013. He manages the Ansley Golf Club’s annual pro-am that received the USPTA’s National Charity Event of the Year in 2012 and it raises over $200,000 a year annually for local charities. He has made presentations at the Southern and National level on club management and on-court strategies. Matt joined the Wilson Speakers Bureau in January of 2012.

Eleanor Haycock

Founder

Year of Ours

Eleanor Haycock is the founder and CEO of Year of Ours, launched in 2016 to create high-quality, flattering activewear for all body types. With 15+ years in fabric and garment development, she has led the brand in expanding sizing, cuts, and fabrics to fit every woman.nnA pioneer in athleisure and fashion, Eleanor is known for her business strategy, product innovation, and brand growth. In 2024, Year of Ours hosted the “League of Ours” Women’s Month Brunch, launched community events like YEAR Tennis Club, and debuted its first NYC pop-up store—continuing to shape the intersection of sports and fashion.

Lydia Hirt

VP of Marketing

LifeTime

Daren Hornig

Managing Partner & Head of Real Estate

Sportime Pickleball

Daren is the Managing Partner of Hornig Capital Partners, bringing over 30 years of real estate experience with a diverse background as a real estate broker, telecommunications entrepreneur, and real estate investor and developer. Since founding HCP in 2013, he has acquired and developed over $1 billion in properties across office, residential, retail, and industrial sectors. In 2023, he successfully acquired the famed Port Washington Tennis Academy and partnered with Sportime to establish Sportime Port Washington, home to the John McEnroe Tennis Academy. Following an $8 million renovation, the facility now features 13 tennis courts and 12 pickleball courts. In 2024, Daren partnered with Sportime again to launch Sportime Pickleball, focused on expanding pickleball facilities throughout the Northeast. The company currently operates five clubs, spanning 160,000 square feet with 66 indoor dedicated courts, and is actively acquiring new properties through leases and acquisitions to expand further. A 1989 graduate of the University of Maryland, College Park, with a bachelors degree in Business Marketing, Daren resides in both New York and Florida. When he is not acquiring properties or launching new pickleball facilities, you can find him on the courts or the slopes.

Paul Ipe

Founder

Rally Vision

Paul Ipe is a 2x Men's O40 Squash National Champion. He graduated from India's top engineering and MBA institute. He has had a stellar 17 year corporate career with a global management consulting company, guiding companies on growth strategy and transformation. In 2023, Paul started Rally Vision to guide racket sport athletes to improve their performance.

Randy Jenks

VP of Partnerships

INTENNSE

Randy Jenks, VP of Partner Relations at Intennse has experienced many parts of the Racquets Industry. After opening and directing clubs in Florida, Randy relied on his IBM background to begin leading US Tennis clubs into the age of Club Management software while with USPTA (now RSPA). Later Randy was one of the first 3 employees at UTR where he worked alongside current Intennse COO, Bruce Waschuk, to develop the Rating system that has become standard tennis vernacular. Randy is also credited with building the UTR Events program. Later Randy was part of the team that built and implemented the current USTA Tournament System, the ITF’s World Tennis Number and USTA’s WTN Events program. Randy has joined INTENNSE because of his belief in the value of this mission, saying, “Tennis needs this now!”

Gordon Kaye

Chief Experience Officer

Joola

Alex Kerman

Senior Director, Business Operations & Research

Sports & Fitness Industry Association

Alex Kerman directs research programs at SFIA, which is widely recognized as America's leading authority on sports participation research. He oversees the Physical Activity Council survey, which tracks 124 sports and activities nationwide, and the comprehensive State of the Industry survey, which analyzes market performance and trends. He leads the Soccer Industry Council of America and the Pickleball Council, collaborating with major brands and governing bodies to address challenges and expand participation. As Research Committee chair, Alex guides SFIA's research strategy and oversees business development initiatives spanning event registration, research revenue, and membership growth. He regularly presents insights and participation data to SFIA members, industry stakeholders, and the media. Alex joined SFIA in 2015, bringing expertise from his M.P.S. in Sports Industry Management from Georgetown University and B.S. in Business Administration from American University.

John Kew

Founder & Co-Host

The Kew Cast

John Kew is the founder and co-host of The Kew Cast with John & Eddie, a podcast dedicated to in-depth discussions on pickleball gear and equipment. The show offers comprehensive reviews of paddles, shoes, and other gear, alongside analyses of industry trends and interviews with key figures in the pickleball community. Beyond podcasting, John maintains a detailed paddle and ball database on his website, providing valuable resources for players seeking technical insights into equipment. Through his podcast and online resources, John Kew has established himself as a knowledgeable figure in the pickleball community, offering valuable insights to players and enthusiasts alike.

Jesse Kirshbaum

CEO

Nue Agency

Jesse Kirshbaum is an American entrepreneur, talent agent, author, executive producer and dealmaker. The multi-hypenate creative businessman has made his career focused on the epicenter of entertainment, technology and brand marketing. He started his career finding and developing talent and from there has extensive experience securing talent for concerts, tours and endorsement deals for his various clients and brand partners internationally. In the same way he is known for helping to break artists, he now focuses on building robust strategies and campaigns for big & emerging brands that wish to break into the mainstream zeitgeist. He is known as one of the top deal makers and thought leaders in the music, tech and brand intersection. He writes and curates Beats + Bytes, an influential weekly newsletters in entertainment and the biggest music newsletter on LinkedIn. His writing is published all across the web and Jesse has regular featured appearances on platforms such as Cheddar, Yahoo Finance, NASDAQ and a regular guest on the podcast circuit.nnHe currently resides in Miami and is back as the CEO of Nue Agency as well as teaching a class at American University Kogod School of Business called The Streaming Revolution.

Kevin Klipstein

President & CEO

US Squash

Since 2004, Kevin has served as CEO of US Squash, leading transformative growth, including a 130% increase in participation and the development of the $40M Arlen Specter US Squash Center. He spearheaded initiatives like Club Locker, a globally licensed SaaS platform, and drove efforts toward squash’s inclusion in the 2028 Olympics. Previously, Kevin held leadership roles at Sun Microsystems and ProServ, managing high-profile sponsorships and brand strategy. A Cornell graduate and former varsity squash co-captain, he has been instrumental in advancing gender equity and expanding squash’s reach worldwide. Kevin graduated with a B.S. from Cornell University, where he was a four-year member of the varsity squash team. His senior year, he was a co-captain and recognized as an All-American Honorable Mention.

Meindert Kooistra

Founder

Squash Retreats

Meindert Kooistra is the founder of Squash Retreats, creating unique experiences that combine world-class destinations with coaching by squash champions and access to prestigious PSA tournaments. He also founded the Global Squash Series, an international graded squash tour that connects players of all levels worldwide, with events across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Oceania. Additionally, Meindert co-founded Prestige Tennis Retreats, offering luxury tennis experiences that feature major tournaments, tennis legends, upscale accommodations, fine dining, and meaningful time on and off the court with Grand Slam champions.

Ken Kosak

General Manager

Broken Sound Club

A native of Pinehurst, North Carolina, Ken is a Class A Member of the PGA of America and an active member of both the Club Managers Association of America and the Community Managers Association. With over 30 years of experience in the club and hospitality industry, Ken has managed some of the world’s most prestigious golf and country clubs across the Caribbean, Middle East, South Africa, Southeast Asia, and the United States. His distinguished career includes leadership roles with renowned hospitality brands such as Hyatt Hotels, Starwood Hotels, and Troon. Currently, Ken serves as the General Manager/COO of Broken Sound Club in Boca Raton, Florida. Spanning 1,600 acres, this private gated community features 36 holes of championship golf, including the famed Old Course, which hosts the PGA Tour Champions annually. The club also boasts one of the largest racquets programs in South Florida, multiple dining venues, and an active social calendar for its 3,000 members. Broken Sound Club holds esteemed accolades, including recognition as a Platinum Club of America (#49 in the Country) and a Distinguished Club of America, reflecting its commitment to excellence and member satisfaction.

Mitch Kutner

President

International POP Tennis Association

Mitch Kutner is currently President of the International POP Tennis Association and has been involved in the “POP movement” since it began in 2015. Sport awareness and growth of the player base in the US led to Mitch and the Association developing a global POP partnership with Tennis Australia. Kutner has been a lifelong POP player, still competing in National Pro tournaments. He is a four time POP Pro doubles finalist including the 2018 NY Open at Billie Jean King National Tennis Center. Born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, Mitch has spent time in the music industry(Arista Records), in TV syndication and over 25 years in the corporate media barter business.

Kyle LaCroix

Chief Education Officer

SETS

Kyle LaCroix is a renowned leader in the racquets industry with over 25 years of experience in racquet sports industry, player and coach advancement. A RSPA Master Professional, RacketPro Global Master Professional and Chief Education Officer of SETS Consulting, he has certified and mentored over 1,700 coaches worldwide, reinvesting more than $250,000 into professional education for his clients since 2022. A decorated industry veteran, Kyle has earned accolades such as the USPTA National Tester of the Year Award and the Florida Division Industry Excellence Award. In 2024 he was recognized by Racquet Sports Industry Magazine as the RSPA Member of The Year. He holds degrees from Ferris State University (B.S.), the University of Michigan (MBA), and Stanford University (M.Ed.), bringing unmatched expertise to the future of racquet sports education for industry professionals

David LaSota

Founder

The Tennis Design Studio

David has provided over 6,000 communities and facility owners with tennis related planning, design and construction guidance. With over 30 years of tennis specific experience, David has an extensive background working with both new construction and court rehabilitation for public, private, collegiate, training, and tournament tennis facilities and large regional complexes. David is a licensed professional engineer in several states in the US. For over fifteen years, David served as the National Technical Consultant to the United States Tennis Association, where he also assisted in the development of standards for 36 foot and 60 foot tennis courts. David has been contracted to assist in the design of the USTA National Campus, The Home of American Tennis, located in Orlando, Florida, and the competition courts at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, home of the US Open in New York City, the Miami Open and numerous other major tournament venues. David has served as the chairman of the Joint Editorial Board for the industry publication, Tennis Courts: Construction and Maintenance Manual, and has contributed to the past five editions. For seven years, he served as a member of the Technical Commission of the International Tennis Federation and has been awarded the Tennis Industry Service Award by Tennis Industry Magazine for his extensive contribution to the industry.

Dominique Lemperle

Advisor

National Pickleball Task Force for RSPA

Dominique Lemperle was born and raised in Germany. She was recruited to play college tennis at the University of Colorado at Boulder, graduated with a master's degree in journalism and then worked as a statistician and graphics specialist in the TV industry for about 10 years, representing IBM at all 4 Grand Slams. She spent the next 10 years of her career in the club racquets industry, first as head tennis and pickleball pro at a Platinum Club, then promoted to Director of Racquets at a country club and recruited to be Director of Programming and Instruction at a corporate indoor pickleball club, called The Pickleball Club in Sarasota, FL, which went bankrupt in December of 2024. She serves as on the National Pickleball Task Force for RSPA, regularly writes articles for RSI magazine and also leads a team of six pickleball coach developers for RSPA Florida.nToday she is here to tell us lessons from the trenches at the Pickleball Club and how we can learn from its failures.

Sergio Lewin

Co-Founder & Operations and Sporting Managing Director

Hexagon Cup

Sergio Lewin's professional career has always been linked to the world of sport. After starting his career in the area of sports marketing, where he was responsible for managing accounts such as those of Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid, Sergio later focused his career for more than a decade on the management and development of the representation of world-class footballers and basketball players. Always with the objective of helping the individual to grow, providing personalised and unique solutions for each athlete. With more than twenty-five years of experience in the sector, Lewin has acquired a comprehensive vision of the world of sport that he now puts at the service of Hexagon Cup, of which he is a founding partner and in which he holds the position of Operations & Sporting Managing Director. The Hexagon Cup, which is already preparing its third edition after the success of the first two, is one of the most revolutionary events in the padel industry. With eight teams at present, owned by big names in sport, businessmen and celebrities such as Eva Longoria, Pierre Gasly, Andy Murray, Kun Agüero, Robert Lewandowski and the Rafa Nadal Academy, the tournament features the best players and players in the world of padel.

Eric Loftus

Partner

Cape & Island Tennis & Track

Eric is the founder of Small Business Abundance, a consulting company in Falmouth, and the Vice President of Business Development for Cape and Island Tennis & Track, an award- winning sports construction company located in Pocasset. He has been involved with many different volunteer organizations and has been a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters since 2003. Eric believes very strongly in giving kids every opportunity to enjoy a healthy and happy start in life. He grew up on the Cape, graduated from Elon University in 1999, and moved back to the area in 2011 to raise a family. He lives in Falmouth with his wife and two children.

Tito Machado

CEO

DUPR

Tito is the CEO of DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating), the largest platform in pickleball with over one million users. Under his leadership, DUPR has become the leading global rating system and the official home of pickleball’s College and High School Tours, fostering growth and competition at all levels.n

DJ Mad Linx

DJ, Host & Connector

MadLinx

DJ Mad Linx is a dynamic on-air personality, television host, and commentator for ESPN and Tennis Channel, covering major events like the US Open. He has appeared on Tennis Channel’s "The Ten" and "My Tennis Life" and contributes to T2, Tennis Channel's new network. Beyond broadcasting, he’s a sought-after DJ and host at top tennis events, including the Miami Open, Mubadala Citi DC Open, IMG Player Parties, and Taste of Tennis, where he has performed alongside stars like Rafael Nadal, Nick Kyrgios, and the Williams sisters. Most recently, he joined Florida Tennis as Host & Entertainment Director. With a background in both tennis and music, he has also hosted major events like the Grammy Awards and Billboard Music Awards. Many recognize him from his time as host of BET's "Rap City" and "106 & Park." A rare triple threat in the worlds of tennis, music, and entertainment, DJ Mad Linx continues to break new ground, bringing energy and excitement to every stage he steps on.

Robert Mazzucchelli

Chairman & CMO

SportsEdTV

Robert has worked in sports, brand building and media for over thirty-five years. His passion for sports started as a young boy with baseball and hockey. Tennis took over as his favorite sport at age twelve, and he eventually earned a scholarship to play tennis the University of Richmond. He tried his hand at playing professionally for a few years, and in 1987 started his first sports marketing company, Pinnacle Promotions with a lifelong friend (and tennis playing buddy). At Pinnacle he created and managed many sports-related events and marketing campaigns for some very big brands, and was a pioneer in helping companies take a more business-driving approach to sponsorship. In 1993, he headed to advertising giant Saatchi & Saatchi Holdings (which became Cordiant Communications Group), where he co-founded marketing agency 141 Worldwide, which grew to have over $200 million in revenue in six years. After helping 141 Worldwide grow to serve clients in over fifty countries, he headed to sports and entertainment giant SFX Entertainment (now called Live Nation), where he led the executive team creating global brand sponsorship alliances with major global brands. In 2017, he co-founded SportsEdTV and is again engaged in sports and media, helping people across the world learn to be better at their favorite sports. Robert also remains active in brand consulting, recently creating a special workshop for racquet sports professionals looking to gain a edge through stronger branding.

Jeff McClure

Sales Manager

Fast-Dry Courts

Jeff McClure is the Sales Manager at Fast-Dry Courts, the leading court builder in Florida, with 13 years of experience in court construction. With a background spanning 7 years in the field and 6 years in sales and management, he specializes in design/build solutions, project management, and client relations. He works closely with top home developers, including GL Homes and Lennar, as well as major country clubs across South Florida, delivering high-quality sports courts tailored to each client’s needs. As an active member of the American Sports Builders Association (ASBA), Racquet Sports Professionals Association, Club Management Association of America (CMAA), The Directors’ Club of America (DCA), and a current participant in the Certified Racquet Sports Executive (CRSE) program, Jeff stays at the forefront of industry standards and innovation. Passionate about court building and facility design, he is committed to creating functional, durable, and aesthetically designed sports facilities that enhance communities and private clubs alike.

Scott McCulloch

President & Chief Operating Officer

Cliff Drysdale Tennis

With over 25 years of experience as a nationally ranked player, coach, director and executive in the racquet sports industry, Scott McCulloch brings unparalleled expertise and passion to his role as President and COO of Cliff Drysdale Tennis. Scott has honed his skills as an operations, programming and business development expert for over 17 years while leading the company domestically and internationally. A dynamic leader and keynote speaker, Scott is widely regarded as an industry innovator with a forward-thinking approach to the evolving world of racquet sports. With extensive experience in private clubs, resorts, residential communities and public facilities, Scott’s strategic vision and deep operational knowledge have made him a trusted advisor and thought leader in the field. Scott is also an active board and committee member, leveraging his insights and expertise to shape the future of the industry. Whether speaking at conferences or driving growth from within, Scott’s commitment to excellence and his ability to inspire teams set him apart as a transformative force in racquet sports.

Hank Medina

Founder & Investor

Litquidity

Litquidity (or "Lit" for short, to avoid confusion with the company name) founded the brand back in March 2017. Lit is a former investment banker and private equity investor turned full-timer memer and angel investor, currently scouting on behalf of Bain Capital Ventures and co-investing alongside tier 1 VCs.

Joe Middleton

Founder

The Club Aguilas

Joe now lives in London and spent most of his career with Levi Strauss, with whom he worked in five different countries. He moved through Merchandising and Marketing and eventually into Executive Management roles in London, Stockholm, San Francisco and Brussels. His final role at Levi’s was President of Levi Strauss Europe, Middle East and Africa. nHe is a founding partner of The Club Águilas, which is the definitive guide for international travelers seeking premium padel clubs and luxury resorts featuring padel. It is known as the “Michelin Guide of Padel”. He is also one of the founders of PULCO Studios, who make the finest technical Padel clothing in the world (with a touch of Enrique Corcuera’s rebellious Acapulco attitude).

Wajid Mir

GC & EVP Player Engagement

Professional Tennis Players Association

For more than two decades of his career, Wajid Mir – SVP of Player Engagement for the PTPA – has been focused on supporting professional athletes. Wajid’s 20+ years working with tennis players, NBA players, and other pro athletes throughout his time at IQ Sports & Entertainment and Roc Nation Sports have made him keenly aware of the unique experiences, challenges, and opportunities that pro athletes face. Now, Wajid is focused on advocating for players at a more macro level, working with the PTPA to bring more meaningful support, resources and opportunities to men’s and women’s pro tennis players worldwide.

Felix Mischker

ATP-ranked tennis player and Co-Founder

Tennis Brothers

Felix (21) is an ATP-ranked tennis player and the co-founder of the media company Tennis Brothers. His weekly YouTube series, "Road to Top 1000 ATP," reaches millions of tennis fans and consistently attracts six-figure views. Born and raised in London, he now travels the professional tennis tour, bringing his rapidly-growing community of 400,000 digital fans with him wherever he goes.

Patricio Misitrano

Founder & CEO

Misitrano Consulting

Patricio Misitrano is the founder of Misitrano Consulting, a leading authority in padel and pickleball consulting. With over 20 years of experience as a Racquet Sports Director and Professional, Patricio is a recognized expert in the racquet sports industry. His innovative approach and deep knowledge have positioned Misitrano Consulting as a trusted advisor to clubs and organizations worldwide. Patricio is also the founder of The Sports Haus, an indoor club in Norwalk, featuring 5 padel courts and 4 pickleball courts. This was the first club in New England open to the public offering these sports. He is a proud member of the United States Padel Association National Teams Committee and a member of the US National Padel Team, further solidifying his commitment to the growth and development of padel in the U.S.

Zane Navratil

Pro Pickleball Player

Zane Navratil Pickleball

Zane Navratil, age 29, started playing pickleball when he was 18, after claiming three high school tennis State Championships in Wisconsin. He played Division III tennis at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater where he earned a degree in Accounting and achieved Academic All American status. Upon graduation, Zane moved to Milwaukee, took a position as an auditor for Deloitte & Touche, and earned his CPA license. Pickleball, however, was calling his name, so he left the business world in 2020 to play and teach pickleball full time. It didn’t take long for Zane to achieve high accolades in pickleball, ranking as high as #1 in Men’s Singles. His presence andnperformance at professional tournaments is remarkable–he has earned over 100 medals and 4 Major League Pickleball titles since turning pro. Zane regularly teaches pickleball clinics across the country and is known for a teaching style that is both efficient and methodical, as well as engaging and fun. He has helped thousands of players improve their game through his clinics and private lessons. His driven and competitive personality is well balanced with his silly sense of humor and ability to have fun with his partners, competitors, and students. When Zane isn’t on the court, you’ll likely find him at home with his wife, Jenny, and their dogs, Murray and Arlo, either sitting on a patio enjoying a good taco or on a hike.

Andi Neugarten

Founder

6lovesports

Andi Neugarten, a lifelong athlete and entrepreneur with a background in marketing and business, is a former competitive tennis player, Ironman athlete, and marathon runner. She founded Alii Sport, a women-specific athletic brand designed to inspire and support female athletes, building a community of over 160 competitors across the U.S. Passionate about health, fitness, and wellness, Andi has recently shifted her focus to padel. She earned her Padel MBA certification and now coaches at The Reserve in Miami, helping to grow the sport among women. As the founder of 6lovesports, she launched a thriving women's padel league in Miami, bringing together over 140 players weekly, with expansion plans for future seasons, tournaments, and events.

Ben Nichols

Founder & CEO

Padel22

Ben is a strategic sports communications and international relations expert with a global career spanning the UK, U.S., UAE, and Canada. He has worked with top sports leagues, events, and athletes, including leading media relations for WADA during the Russian Doping Scandal. By 26, he was overseeing communications for the ATP and WTA Dubai Tennis Championships, later holding senior roles at Lotus Renault GP and the Commonwealth Games Federation. In 2022, he founded Padel 22 to grow the sport in emerging markets, earning recognition as a Top 50 Padel Influencer. He also founded Cage 91, Club Águilas, Property+Padel, and the Anglo American Cup, solidifying his role as a key figure in global padel.

Peter Nicol

Co-Founder + Master Coach

Nicol

Squash World Champion and former World #1 for 5 years, Peter fell in love with many sports from a young age, with squash taking the lead for his pro career. Upon retiring from the pro circuit Peter started his eponymous junior squash program, developing young players into lifelong athletes through to professional players. Alongside his business partner and wife Jess, Nicol has opened multiple squash facilities, serving both kids and adults, with the goal of getting more people on any type of court. Nicol's model is public, accessible, with world class coaching. Nicol NYC is squash, fitness + bar; Nicol NJ is squash, pickleball, padel, bar + physical therapy. Nicol is actively expanding within the multi-sport space. Originally from Scotland, Peter lives in downtown Manhattan with his wife, soccer-obsessed son, and dog.

Bryan Ogle

Chief Commercial Officer

All Racquet Sports (adidas licensee)

Bryan Ogle, Chief Commercial Officer at All Racquet Sports (adidas licensee) has been working in sporting goods, specifically racquet/paddle sports for almost 20 yrs. Bryan enjoys peeling back the layers and seeing what is possible. A firm believer that good product is one thing, but an overall brand story coupled with good product makes it great for the consumer. Understanding the larger landscape and how best to create demonstrative change in the industry is a belief that drives decision making every day. Bryan believes racquet/paddle sports are good for all and playing part of bringing that belief to life is a job well done.

Adriana Olaya

Head of PSA

Professional Squash Association

Adriana Olaya is the Founder and Head of the PSA Foundation, the charitable arm of the Professional Squash Association, dedicated to growing the game and supporting players on and off the court. With over a decade of experience in sports management, non-profit leadership, and athlete development, she has built impactful programs that create pathways for players from underserved backgrounds, collegiate athletes, and professionals transitioning beyond their careers in squash. Under her leadership, the PSA Foundation has grown to support over 14 Squash for Development organizations across the globe, created a woman in coaching fund and led the first international Squash Summit. She also spearheaded the creation of Squash University and the We Are One Fund; both initiatives designed to equip professional players with the skills and networks needed for life after squash and provide a hardship fund for times in need. Beyond her work in squash, Adriana has a background in human resources, events, and community engagement, having worked in both the corporate and sports sectors. Her passion lies in using sport as a tool for social change, making sports more inclusive and accessible for all.

Alejandro Oletta

Co-Founder & CEO

Nameless

Alejandro Oletta is the Co-Founder & CEO of Nameless, a platform redefining how sports organizations track, activate, and monetize fan engagement. With a background in digital transformation at Accenture and a master’s in Sports Management from Georgetown, he’s led brand activations and event data-driven campaigns for clients like Johnnie Walker, the Mallorca Championships (ATP 250), and NYC’s Bowery Showroom. A Miami native and former Sony Ericsson Open ball boy, he’s been immersed in sports his entire life. With Nameless, his team is transforming fragmented fan data into measurable revenue—helping teams maximize revenue, sponsors prove ROI, and fans unlock real rewards.

Rob Oosterhuis

General Manager/COO

Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club

A native of England and South Africa who grew up in Southern California, Rob Oosterhuis has been a Class A Member of the PGA of America for more than two decades. He is a nationally elected Director on the Club Management Association of America (CMAA) Board and holds both the Certified Club Manager (CCM) and Certified Chief Executive (CCE) designations. This past year Rob also was certified as a Community Association Manager (CAM). Rob spent nearly 15 years with Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, serving in leadership roles at properties in Dallas, Costa Rica, and Santa Barbara. Following that, he led Sherwood Country Club in Thousand Oaks, California through numerous renovation projects and oversaw a racquets program with tennis on three surfaces and pickleball. His professional career has included overseeing the successful execution of 10 PGA TOUR events. Currently, Rob serves as the General Manager/COO of Royal Palm Yacht & Country Club in Boca Raton, Florida. Under his leadership, Royal Palm thrives as a premier private club with a vibrant membership engaged in golf, yachting, racquet sports, wellness, dining, and social activities. The club is recognized as a Platinum Club of America, Platinum Club of the World, and a Distinguished Club of America.

Brock Orlowski

Director of Racquet Sports

Fort Wayne Country Club

Brock Orlowski is the Director of Racquet Sports at Fort Wayne Country Club in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Brock is originally from Grand Rapids, Michigan and is a graduate of Kuyper College, holds an MBA from Indiana Tech, and a graduate certificate from the University of Florida's Director of Racquet Sports program. Brock is also one of less than 60 people who are certified Directors of Racquet Sports with the RSPA and PTR. Brock is RSPA certified as an elite tennis professional, padel professional and pickleball professional. He is also a Professional Pickleball Registry and RacketPro certified pickleball professional and is a certified padel professional with Padel MBA. Prior to being at FWCC, Brock was the Head Men's and Women's Tennis Coach and Athletics Operations Manager at Indiana Tech, Assistant Coach of Women's Tennis at Huntington University, a tennis professional at Empowered Sports Club, and was the Head Girls' Tennis Coach at Blackhawk Christian High School and Head Boy's Tennis Coach at New Haven High School. Brock was named the 2023 RSPA Indiana Professional of the Year and currently serves on the RSPA Midwest Board. Brock is a proud member of the Directors’ Club of America and client of SETS Consulting. Brock is married to his wife, Abby, and they have five children.

Renato Paiva

Executive Director at Access Youth Academy

Access Youth Academy

Renato Paiva has been a pivotal force in the world of squash and youth development, serving as the Executive Director of Access Youth Academy since its inception. Over the past 19 years, Renato has led Access to remarkable achievements, establishing it as one of the premier urban squash and youth development programs in the world. Under his leadership, Access students have achieved a 100% college graduation rate, secured over $15 million in scholarships, and won 13 national squash titles. Renato was instrumental in the design and construction of a state-of-the-art education and squash facility in a federally designated Promise Zone in Southeastern San Diego, which opened in June 2021. A native of Brazil, Renato's passion for squash propelled him to become an internationally ranked player, competing across several countries. Before his tenure at Access, Renato honed his coaching skills at prestigious institutions, including Squash Coach at Harvard University and Head Coach at USC. His exceptional coaching abilities were recognized when he was named Development Coach of the Year by U.S. Squash in 2010 and honored as Coach of the Year by the U.S. Congressional Caucus on Youth Sports in Washington, DC, in 2011. In addition to his role at Access Youth Academy, Renato serves as a board member at the Panamerican Squash Federation and the PSA Foundation, where he continues to influence the sport's growth and development on a global scale. His dedication to both the sport and the holistic development of young athletes underscores his commitment to making a lasting impact in the community.

Riley Palmer

Owner

Smiley Riley Pickleball Travel and Coaching

Riley Palmer, aka “Smiley Riley” is a Certified Professional Pickleball Coach, and advocate for the growth of pickleball both locally and internationally, both on and off the court. Riley brings unwavering enthusiasm and energy to the sport, coaching a DUPR competitive junior team at the renowned JW Marriott Desert Ridge Phoenix and serving as the Director of Pickleball at Victorium of Scottsdale’s Dink All Day program.nnBeyond coaching, Smiley Riley has expanded her impact, launching into the luxury travel industry. She curates exceptional pickleball experiences in breathtaking destinations worldwide including Croatia, Italy, and Greece. nnShe is also recognized for pioneering the first floating pickleball court, solidifying her reputation as an innovator in the sport. You’ve likely seen her viral reels scrolling instagram and may not have even known it was from this industry pioneer.nnWhether coaching, organizing world-class pickleball events, or inspiring new players, Smiley Riley’s passion for the game is truly infectious.

Lauren Pedersen

CEO & Co-Founder

SportAI

Lauren Pedersen is the CEO and Co-Founder of SportAI, where she combines her passion for sports with extensive experience growing global tech companies.nnOriginally from New Zealand, Lauren played NCAA Division One tennis for American University in Washington, DC. She started her career working in some of the world's largest advertising agencies in New York and London before turning her focus to tech start-ups.nnOver the past 16 years, Lauren has held a number of leadership roles in successful international tech start-ups including Opera Software and Airthings. Lauren continues to play competitive tennis and recently represented Norway at the ITF Masters World Championships in Tokyo.

Andrew Petcash

CEO

Profluence

Andrew Petcash is the CEO of Profluence Capital. nnHe is also the founder of Profluence (a media company) which has garnered over 150,000 social media followers and 200 million impressions. Profluence’s agency arm has had the opportunity to build over a dozen sports media brands. He is also a founding member of the private syndicate group, DraftDay, where they source equity opportunities for professional athletes. nnAndrew graduated from Boston University with a B.S.B.A. concentrating in finance. He was also a captain of the Terriers D1 basketball team and a Patriot League Champion.

Trey Poerschke

Founder

Winners Only

Tennis Content creator and new tennis player highlighting his journey with the sport on Youtube, while highlighting recreational tennis and showing the coolest courts around the world.

Rachele Pojednic

Director of Scientific Research

Restore Hyper Wellness

Dr. Rachele Pojednic is an international authority on nutrition, supplementation and physical activity interventions for muscle physiology, performance and recovery. She received her PhD from Tufts University Friedman School of Nutrition Science and Policy and completed her postdoctoral training at Harvard Medical School at the Joslin Diabetes Center and Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital.nnIn addition to serving as Restore’s Director of Scientific Research and Education, she has a faculty appointment at Stanford University and holds research appointments at The Institute of Lifestyle Medicine at Harvard Medical School, and Edith Cowan University’s Nutrition and Health Innovation Research Institute. She has received NIH research funding from the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and the Vermont Biomedical Research Network (VBRN), an NIH IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) program. She currently serves on the Board of Governors for the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Exercise Is Medicine® initiative. nnDr. Pojednic has been an active fitness professional for over 20 years as a nutrition educator and coach for Olympic, Division I sports, and tactical athletes. She has a passion for science communication and is regularly featured in outlets such as NPR, Sirius Doctor Radio, Time, the Wall Street Journal, STAT News, Popular Science, Self, Shape, Women’s Health, Forbes, and Runners World.

Alex Ponseti

Managing Director

Padel World Summit

With 22 years in the padel industry, Alex is the Managing Director of the Padel World Summit and a Board Member at the International Padel Cluster. He is also a Partner at Kru Padel Team by Taktika in the Hexagon Cup and La Pelota Club in Qatar. A seasoned Padel Club Consultant, he has previously been a club owner and padel coach.

Amanda Potter

Founder

Ballers

Amanda Potter is the founder and owner of Good City Studio, a Philadelphia-based design and strategy firm specializing in hospitality, private clubs and wellness, as well as the co-founder and Creative Director of Ballers, a new racquets-forward social sports and hospitality venue launching this spring in Philadelphia with the backing of sports giants Andre Agassi and Kim Clijsters, among others.nnTrained as an architect, Amanda’s nearly twenty year career has spanned concept creation, business strategy, interior design, creative direction, branding and project execution, with her early work in New York including wellness and hospitality giant Equinox, where she served as Director of Planning, overseeing design across new locations. While collaborating on Equinox Hotels, Amanda met her now life and business partner David Gutstadt. Later, the duo went on to launch the award-winning private members club, Fitler Club, in Philadelphia, where they currently reside and are opening the first Ballers location. The 50,000 sq-ft flagship will open in the city’s historic Battery, a breathtaking 100-year-old power plant, with a pipeline of twenty Ballers locations over the next five years in key US markets such as Boston, Los Angeles, Chicago.

Matt Pressman

Editor and Publisher

Florida Tennis

Matt Pressman started his journey in tennis as a junior player who lived and trained at Saddlebrook Resort's Harry Hopman Tennis Academy in Tampa. After his time at the academy, Pressman returned to his home in Connecticut to privately train with Brian Barker — former coach of world no. 4 James Blake. Pressman’s high school tennis team went on to win the Connecticut State Championship. Soon after, Pressman received a D1 athletic scholarship to attend the University of Connecticut where he served as Captain of the Huskies tennis team. He also worked as the Assistant Tennis Pro at the Woodbridge Club in Woodbridge, CT. After working for two decades in the magazine industry and advertising sector in NYC, he transitioned to Florida. Pressman acquired Florida Tennis magazine in 2023 and serves as its Editor and Publisher.

Robert Quicksilver

Chairman

USA Pickleball

Robert Quicksilver was elected as Chairman of the Board of USA Pickleball, effective January 1, 2022. He was an At-Large Member of the Board for the three preceding years. Robert served as Executive Vice President and Chief Administrative Officer of Charter Communications, where he oversaw its Media Sales, Government Relations, and other divisions. Prior to Charter, Robert served as President of Network Distribution of FOX Broadcasting Company, where he oversaw the business relationship between FOX and its 180+ affiliate station group. Robert began his career as a corporate attorney in his hometown of St. Louis, Missouri and subsequently became General Counsel of two media companies. He holds a J.D. from The University of Michigan School of Law and a B.A. degree from Dartmouth College. Robert resides in Newport Beach, California.

Ron Radigonda

Director of Communications

PPL

Current Director of Communications at PPL. Under his 15 years of leadership as Executive Director, the face of ASA/USA Softball evolved dramatically. Prior to accepting the Executive Director position, Radigonda worked with the City of Sacramento in the Parks and Recreation Department for 28 years and also served as Executive Director of the Sacramento Sports Commission and the Sacramento Sports Foundation. In 1982, he became the Commissioner of the Sacramento ASA, where he served as Chair of numerous committees and served on the Board of Directors and as the Chair of the Association’s Insurance and Finance Committees. During his tenure as Executive Director, the ASA Hall of Fame Complex has undergone major renovations and has continued its hosting duties for the NCAA Women’s College World Series (WCWS), and the World Cup of Softball, an international softball event. He also helped foster a continuing relationship with the City of Oklahoma City. At the International Level, Radigonda has served as a delegate and committee chair for the International Softball Federation (ISF), the governing body of softball internationally.

Ryan Redondo

CEO

Taktika Padel

Ryan Redondo was born into the racquet sports industry, hailing from a large tennis family in San Diego, California. Growing up with a father who was a division 1 head coach and several professional tennis players in his family, Ryan followed the tennis path competing for the United States as a junior player, competing across the globe. Ryan started his racquet career as a collegiate tennis assistant coach at San Diego State University followed by nearly a decade as the director of tennis and head men's tennis coach at the University of the Pacific. While at Pacific, Ryan was instrumental in the development of the Eve Zimmerman Tennis Center, a $5 million dollar 12 court facility consisting of a restaurant, locker rooms, training room and offices and bringing the first ever ATP and WTA challengers to the city of Stockton. In 2020, Ryan entered the non-profit space and became the CEO of Youth Tennis San Diego, a 501c3 that serves over 12,000+ youth in the City of San Diego. Youth Tennis San Diego is also the owner and operator of the award winning Barnes Tennis Center. While re-energizing the organization, Ryan was able to add millions of dollars in capital improvements that have led to the construction of 19 pickleball courts, 7 padel courts, and a dedicated performance and rehab center and more, being named the Facility of the Year by the USTA in 2021. Additionally, Ryan helped lead the charge to bring the first ever ATP Tour 250 event to the city of San Diego and leads the WTA 500 San Diego Open as the Tournament Director. On top of that, Ryan oversees the development of nearly 60 outreach programs throughout the city of San Diego providing free to low-cost tennis and educational assistance programs on school black tops and park and recreation centers. Most recently, Ryan has been charged with the development of Padel on the west coast, pioneering the growth of the sport as the CEO of Taktika Racquet Sports. Ryan has been instrumental in the partnership and development of the three current Taktika sites consisting of Taktika San Diego's 7 courts, Taktika Carson in partnership with AEG and the MLS LA Galaxy 4 courts, and the most recent partnership with the first ever collegiate Padel facility at the division 1, University of the Pacific. Taktika, initially a Padel only company has added Pickleball to its programming and has added 8 Pickleball courts in Carson and 8 designated pickleball courts at Pacific. Ryan has stamped his legacy as being the first to have have developed a designated tennis, padel, and pickleball center on a US collegiate campus. In conjunction with his partnership and CEO role of Taktika, Ryan is also a partner and CEO of the San Diego Stingrays, a franchise in the Pro Padel League, the first professional padel league in North America. Ryan graduated with honors from San Diego State University with a degree in Religious Studies and holds a certificate from Cornel University in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and an Organizational Leadership certificate from Harvard Online Business School. Ryan has three children and resides in San Diego, California.

Rachelle Reed

Head of Scientific Research and Science Communication

Therabody

Rachelle holds a B.A., M.S., and Ph.D. in exercise physiology, completed postdoctoral training in exercise psychology, and is also an American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Certifiedn Exercise Physiologist. Rachelle chairs the ACSM’s Continuing Professional Education Committee. For almost a decade, Rachelle has worked as an industry scientist for large global brands, bridging the gap between the wellness and research industries both in house and in the media. Reed has appeared in multiple print, digital and podcast interviews where she talks about upcoming trends and demystifies scientific concepts, applying them to common human pain points. Now Head of Scientific Research and Science Communication at Therabody, Inc., Rachelle is leading more than 26 concurrent scientific studies plus cross-functional communications. As Reed herself says, she is, “passionate about improving health behaviors, and I really enjoy helping people understand why and how technology can improve their quality of life."

Casey Reede

Founder

Courtside Talent

Casey Reede is the founder of Courtside Talent, a tennis marketing agency built to elevate female professional athletes and rethink how brands show up in the sport. A former D1 tennis player at USC, Casey has always seen tennis as more than just a game—it’s a way to build community, opportunity, and lifelong connections. With over a decade of experience in strategic partnerships and brand marketing, Casey has worked with some of the most innovative companies, leveraging her deep network from years of traveling with WTA athletes to create meaningful collaborations. Through Courtside Talent, she helps professional tennis players grow their personal brands, land sponsorships, and expand their presence across social media and emerging platforms. She also works with brands in health, wellness, and tennis, helping them develop impactful athlete marketing strategies and bring high-energy events to life. At her core, Casey is all about connecting people, creating opportunities, and amplifying the voices of female athletes. She loves bringing the right people together, championing those she believes in, and building partnerships that leave a lasting impact.

Mark Renneson

Founder

Third Shot Sports

Mark Renneson is a professional pickleball coach who travels globally to work with pickleball players and instructors. He is the President of Pickleball Coaching International (PCI) which offers pickleball instructor education and certification through a blend of online training and on-court evaluations. Mark also serves as the Head of Pickleball Coach Education at Tennis Canada where he has developed and oversees that country’s pickleball instructor certification program.

Nikita Ribakovs

Founder & CEO

Tournated

Nikita Ribakovs – Founder & CEO of Tournated.com. National champion in 7 racket sports, former ITF Player Council member, and international sports developer. Experienced business developer, Techstars Web3 mentor, and winner of multiple national and international startup awards.

Will Richards

Founder & CEO

Dill Dinkers

Will is an Air Force veteran and has 40 years of experience in management. After leaving the Air Force he embarked on a road to get his undergraduate education but was side-tracked into a career at Domino’s Pizza. He rose through the ranks at the company and was part of Dominos Pizza rapid growth throughout the late 80s and early 90s. He later became an area Franchisee with the company. After transitioning away from Pizza in 2000 he became involved in IT and logistics serving in various management roles until finally getting into the world of non-profits - helping people with disabilities find meaningful employment for over 14 years. After developing an interest in Pickleball, Will and his wife Denise started Dill Dinkers in March of 2022. The first location opened in Nov 2022 and has since doubled in size. Using experience from his days at Dominos Pizza with rapid growth the company will have 5 locations open within a year. Due to the success of the Dill Dinkers business model, the team decided to partner with Franchise Well and developed the current franchise concept. Since the launch of their nationwide franchise program last September, Dill Dinkers has signed 25 developers in Texas, Washington D.C., North Carolina, Connecticut, South Carolina, Arizona, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, Georgia, Florida, New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania for over 400 committed locations. Dill Dinkers expects to sign 10 or more developers in 2025 and open 20-30 new clubs.

Michael Rodriguez

Sales & Operations

Playbypoint

Michael Rodriguez brings a wealth of experience in sales and operations to his role at Playbypoint, where he plays a pivotal role in driving business growth and client success. As one of the founding team members alongside Andres Robelo, Michael has been instrumental in shaping Playbypoint's journey from its inception. He is passionate about leveraging technology to enhance club operations and player experiences, ensuring Playbypoint remains at the forefront of innovation in the sports management sector.

Blake Rose

Co-Founder

OLA Beach Tennis

Blake Rose is the Co-Founder of OLA Beach Tennis, a leading brand driving the growth of beach tennis in the U.S. and beyond. OLA operates 25 courts in Los Angeles, runs the OLA Academy to develop players at all levels, and provides league software to enhance competition and community engagement. In February 2025, OLA made history by hosting the first-ever Beach Tennis All-Star Game in Miami, further elevating the sport’s profile. nnIn addition to his work with OLA, Blake is a tech partnerships leader at Addepar, a global software firm, where he manages a network of 60+ technology integration partners, helping power the global financial system. With a passion for innovation and community-building, he is committed to expanding access to beach tennis and shaping the future of the sport.

Romain Rosenberg

Deputy Executive Director

(PTPA) Professional Tennis Players Association

​Romain Rosenberg is the Deputy Executive Director of the Professional Tennis Players Association (PTPA). Before joining the PTPA, he worked at the Boston Consulting Group, overseeing corporate strategy and digital innovation projects for Fortune 100 companies. Rosenberg has also participated in industry events, discussing topics such as digital innovations and their impact on tennis.

Swupnil Sahai

Founder

SwingVision

Swupnil is the Co-Founder & CEO of SwingVision, the patented AI app that provides automated stats, highlights & line calling using just your phone. Previously he led object tracking at Tesla Autopilot, taught Data Science at UC Berkeley and received his PhD in Statistics from Columbia University.

Rowena Samarasinhe

Senior Advisor

Professional Squash Association

Rowena Samarasinhe is a Senior Advisor to the PSA Squash Tour, as well as being a commercial sports lawyer and managing her own commercial sports consultancy, GENSport. She has worked with some of the largest global sports properties, concluding ground-breaking deals for sports bodies in addition to major endorsement deals with some of the most prolific athletes in the world but her passion lies in strategic growth and commercial development, especially in the women’s space.nHer role with the PSA Squash Tour is primarily to support the commercial team but also to drive awareness for the sport as it focuses on its debut in the LA28 Olympics. She also sits on a number of sporting boards and is a corporate speaker on inclusive leadership and recently delivered a TEDx talk on the subject of sport and diversity.nAs an ex-athlete herself, Rowena is passionate about changing perceptions within the industry and her experience both personally and professionally has given her a unique perspective of sport, from grass roots to high performance level with the consideration of players and athletes themselves remaining at the heart of what she does.

Blas Sanchez

President

NOX USA Distribution

I'm Blas Sanchez, the owner and President of NOX USA, Casas Padel, Casas Padel Club Aventura Mall, and Smash Padel Club. I'm proud to be a pioneer in the padel industry in the USA. We were the first to open an exclusive padel store in a shopping mall in the USA and the first to establish a padel club within a shopping mall.

Dan Santorum

CEO

Racketpro

Dan Santorum is an experienced and innovative Chief Executive Officer with a proven track record in the racquets industry. Appointed as the first CEO of Racketpro in August 2024, Dan brings expertise in Association Management, Membership Management, Coaching, and Program Development. He leads the team dedicated to creating the world’s leading racquet sports coaching platform. An International Master Professional, Dan has received numerous honors and awards throughout his career, earning a global reputation as a visionary, leader, and educator. He was the 2023 RSI Pickleball Executive of the Year. Before taking the helm at Racketpro, Dan spent nearly 40 years building PTR/PPR into industry leaders. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from the University of Florida.

Derek Sawer

Head Coach

DUPR

Derek Sawer, DUPR’s Official Head Coach, has been a key figure in NYC’s pickleball boom. He helped develop the grassroots scene at Brooklyn Bridge Park – Pier 2 and spent the last two years as Head Pro & VP of Pickleball at CityPickle, training top coaches and organizing events. As a Certified DUPR-RPPk Master Instructor, Derek now brings his expertise to DUPR, focusing on coaching certifications, continuing education, and community building to elevate the sport at all levels.

Carl Schmits

Chief Technology Officer & Director of Manufacturing and Paddle Testing at USA Pickleball

USA Pickleball

Strategic executive with 20+ years experience in technology leadership, business development and marketing functions with international / global scope in ICT, including silicon, systems, software and services. Entrepreneurial background with start-up and multi-cultural experience. Racquets/health industry experience as pro competitor, business leader and technology innovator. Lived and led teams in France, Finland, England with global and EMEA remits, and USA with a global remit. Technology speakerships/keynotes with notable EMEA research centers/ polytechnics, including Helsinki Aalto University, IBM Zurich Research Lab, Russian Ministry of Science, Poland Academy of Sciences , UAE Higher Colleges of Technology, Royal Swedish Academy of Engineering Sciences. Former Open level racquetball competitor and certified instructor; currently USA Pickleball Association 5.0 rated and a Level II certified professional pickleball instructor.nnSpecialties: International sales and marketing leadership, sports management, key account acquisition/development/management; business development, entrepreneurship, press relations, keynote presenter, high performance computing (HPC), mobile technologies, communications, telecommunications, software, robotics, renewables, contract negotiations, coaching

Fernando Segal

Founder & CEO

Segal Institute & GPTCA

With over 45 years in tennis, Fernando Segal is a globally recognized leader in tennis development. As the founder of the Segal Institute, he has shaped thousands of coaches and pioneered strategic tennis transformations worldwide. A direct disciple of Felipe Locicero, coach of Grand Slam champion Guillermo Vilas, Segal has worked with national tennis federations in Argentina, Brazil, Mexico, Australia, and beyond, creating successful development systems. An author of 12 books, including The 4 Tennis, Segal’s methodologies are used by over 7,000 coaches globally. He has served on ITF committees, presented at top tennis conferences, and received the GPTCA "Tennis Coach of the Year" award. He also founded the World Tennis Conference (WTC) and the Tennis Innovation Conference, bringing together the sport’s most influential minds. Currently, he leads groundbreaking tennis projects worldwide, aiming to transform the next generation of tennis leaders.

Chen Shachar

CEO & Co-founder

Playsight

Chen M. Shachar is the co-founder and CEO of PlaySight (www.playsight.com). He is committed to making elite sports technologies accessible to athletes of all levels, in all sports, worldwide. PlaySight is revolutionizing the sports industry by transforming analog courts into AI SmartCourts and taking both entertainment and performance to the next level. With high-resolution cameras and advanced AI technology, PlaySight delivers cutting-edge video and performance analysis tools for various sports. Shachar holds an ME in System Engineering and a B.Sc. in Electrical Engineering both from the Technion - Israel Institute of Technology in Haifa.

Addam Shand

Founder & CEO

Junior Force Pickleball

Addam Shand is the visionary founder of Junior Force Pickleball, Youth Pickleball Association, and My Pickleball League. With a deep commitment to elevating juniors in pickleball, he has crafted innovative curriculums, certifications, and video coaching libraries designed to empower coaches and enhance their ability to develop young athletes. His proven coaching methods have achieved remarkable success, with retention rates reaching 94% along with rapid client growth. Addam’s unmatched passion for connecting with juniors in a way that resonates with them makes him a true leader in the sport, driving both engagement and excellence.

Thomas Shields

Founder & CEO

The Dink

Thomas is the Founder & CEO of The Dink, a leading media platform dedicated to pickleball. With a background in finance, startups, and sports media, he is also a Managing Partner at Upswing Sports, where he focuses on growth and investment in the sports industry. In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, he is an active angel investor with a portfolio spanning SaaS, sports tech, media, and medtech. Previously, he served as a commentator for Major League Pickleball, hosting live events, including the MLP Draft Show from Arthur Ashe Stadium. His diverse experience includes roles in investment banking, sales operations, and partnerships, shaping his expertise at the intersection of sports, media, and business.

Alex Skinner

Co-Founder & CEO

ClubCloud

As the CEO, and one of the original founders of Clubcloud, Alex’s experience as a Division I tennis player at Boston College, RSPA tennis teaching professional, director of tennis, fitness professional, and charitable foundation executive director makes him the ideal subject matter expert for clubcloud.nnAlex’s constant desire to learn, as evidenced by his Master’s Degree from the University of Pennsylvania, has provided Clubcloud with a steady stream of industry strengthening and paradigm shifting ideas which exceed the expectations of the racquet and fitness world.

Ed Starr

Managing Partner

BMF

Ed Starr is the Managing Partner of BMF, an award-winning global integrated creative marketing agency with expertise in brand strategy, experiential, digital, influencer, talent, and lifestyle PR.nnWe conceptualize and execute multi-channel programs that earn attention from key opinion leaders, engage with our clients' target audiences, and create unforgettable brand experiences with lasting impact. We do this for brands who seek to have a meaningful role in the current cultural conversation.n nLast year, with teams working around the world, BMF produced 350 programs of which 50 were in 19 countries outside the US. Each of the programs we develop are unique — the red thread is our commitment to delivering ROI by humanizing brands in unexpected and impactful ways that are made to inspire.nnEd is a massive tennis fan and has dreams of becoming a 5.0 player

Fred Stringfellow

Executive Vice President

American Sports Builders Association

Rachel Stuhlmann

Tennis & Pickleball Content Creator and Correspondent

Freelance

Rachel is a dynamic force in the tennis industry, seamlessly transitioning from high-level player to multimedia mogul. With a passion for making tennis more mainstream and accessible, she has built an impressive career as a digital media host, tournament ambassador, commentator, published writer, and marketing strategist.nnHer expertise spans media, sponsorships, partnerships, and event coordination, making her a sought-after voice in the sport. As an ATP/WTA media member and USPTA-certified coach with nearly a decade of experience, Rachel combines deep industry knowledge with a fresh, engaging approach.nnThrough her global tournament coverage, brand collaborations, and social media presence, she continues to break barriers, redefining tennis as an exciting and inclusive sport for all.

Joan Suasi

Director Comercial

Rafa Nadal Academy

David Sugden

CEO

Premier Padel

David Sugden is General Secretary of Qatar Sports Investments (QSI), one of the foremost groups in world sport and entertainment, famously custodians of Paris Saint-Germain, while also investing in and operating sports assets across the globe. David is CEO of Premier Padel, the world’s leading professional padel tour, launched by QSI in 2022 and governed by the International Padel Federation. With a wealth of experience in the sports industry, David also serves as the Chief Corporate Affairs & Communications Officer at beIN Media Group, one of the leading media groups in the world operating in 40 markets worldwide; while supporting Nasser Al-Khelaïfi in his roles on the UEFA Executive Committee and as Chairman of the European Club Association, representing over 740 football clubs across Europe. David’s previous roles include seven years at elite international law firm Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer and as legal counsel for the London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games, together with being Head of Litigation & Legal Affairs at Edelman.

Yev Supeko

Director of Racquets

Colonial Country Club

Yev Supeko is an experienced leader in the racquets and hospitality industries with a proven track record of building and managing top-tier sports facilities. Over the past 12 years, he has served as the General Manager of Centercourt Club & Sports, where he played a key role in its growth and success. Currently, as the Director of Racquets at the prestigious Colonial Country Club, Yev is dedicated to enhancing racquet sports programming at one of the most iconic clubs in the country. Additionally, he is the co-founder of FacilitEase, an innovative multi-purpose club reservation platform designed to streamline operations and improve the member experience.

Ryan Sweeney

Founder & CEO

Inner Game AI & Inner Game Studios

Ryan Sweeney is founder and CEO of Inner Game AI & Inner Game Studios. As a longtime technology executive, his mission is to bring consumers and businesses AI that is both useful and grounded in trusted data that founded modern performance psychology. He and his team believe that marketing through authentic entertainment is the route to inspiring people looking for tools to help them reach peak performance. Personally impacted by The Inner Game of Tennis by Tim Gallwey as a competitive tennis player, entrepreneur and artist, Ryan is excited to help bring the next phase of it's influence to the world through AI.

Jessica Talbert

Co-Founder

Park Padel

Jessica Talbert started Park Padel in 2023 with her co-founder Neil Chainani and Katie Lampert , which currently has 3 locations in Northern California. Jessica has an MBA from Stanford Business School and has leveraged her experience across companies like Gap, Annheuser-Busch, Lyft, and Chime to create highly user and community centric padel clubs.

Nick Taylor

Head National Coach

Ganek Family US Squash

Nick Taylor, the newly appointed Ganek Family US Squash Head National Coach, brings a wealth of experience as both a player and coach. A former world No. 14 on the PSA Tour, Taylor represented England at the highest level, winning ten PSA titles, two European Championships, and multiple Masters titles, including two World Masters Championships. With over two decades of coaching experience, he has worked with England Squash, Manchester University, and the Jersey Squash Association, and most recently led the Nick Taylor Academy in Boston. Taylor was also part of Team USA’s coaching staff at the record-breaking 2023 and 2024 British Junior Open.

Brandon Teets

Founder

Accel Digital Sports

Brandon Teets is the founder of Accel Digital Sports, an innovative company at the intersection of sports technology and digital solutions. He is the creator of the DigiPro, a cutting-edge product designed to revolutionize sports performance through design, engineering, materials, and more. As an entrepreneur with a deep passion for additive manufacturing, Brandon has leveraged his expertise in 3D printing and product development to push the boundaries of design and functionality in the sports industry. With a track record of successfully navigating manufacturing diversity across various processes and industries, Brandon has mastered the art of adapting to unique challenges, integrating innovative solutions, and fostering collaboration across different sectors to drive efficiency and growth. Now, shaping the future of athletic performance and equipment.

Cassandra Toroian

Co-Founder

RuleyAI

Cassandra Toroian is a seasoned entrepreneur and lifelong tennis player with three successful company exits. She has built and scaled ventures across financial services and real estate after beginning her career as a Wall Street Journal "All Star" equity analyst for a mid-size investment bank. Following the 2008 crisis, she authored "Don't Buy the Bull". In the last couple of years, she has pivoted back toward technology, mastered Python code, machine learning, AI, and Web3. She founded Firsthand Research and Consulting which now develops innovative AI enhanced mobile applications for sports. She holds a BA from Lafayette College as well as an MBA in University of Miami.

Brad Tuckman

Co-Founder

The Fort

Bill Ullman

President

US Padel Association (USPA)

Bill Ullman lives in Brooklyn, NY, and is currently the President of the US Padel Association (USPA). An enthusiastic padel player, Bill has twice been a member of Team USA at the Senior Pan American Padel Games in the 55+ category. He was a finalist in the 2024 US National 55+ Padel Championships. Bill has enjoyed a lifelong passion for racquet sports. His extensive squash background includes being a winner of 7 US and Canadian National Age Group Squash Doubles Championships. Bill's professional career began at Merrill Lynch (including 3 years in London, UK); he was a Senior Managing Director at Bear Stearns in their Investment Banking Department; he currently serves as a member of the Board of Directors of Van Eck Global, an investment firm with over $100 billion of assets under management and advises a broad range of financial technology companies. He is also the founder of Water Street Advisors LLC, a registered investment advisor. Bill graduated from Princeton University (1985) and UCLA's Anderson School of Management (1989).

Bob Unetich

Owner

Pickleball Sound Mitigation

Robert M Unetich, a graduate of Carnegie Mellon University, is an electrical engineer by training. He is active now as a consulting engineer specializing in pickleball sound. He is experienced in product development and site design with over 50 years of engineering experience in electronics and acoustics. He has been a licensed Professional Engineer in Pennsylvania since 1976 and a USA Pickleball Certified Referee for more than seven years.

Braydon Unsicker

Founder

Pickleball Effect

Braydon Unsicker is the founder of Pickleball Effect, established in 2019 to provide in-depth, unbiased reviews of pickleball paddles and equipment. Frustrated by the lack of detailed information available, Braydon began conducting comprehensive, player-tested reviews to help players find the best paddle for their needs and playstyle. In addition to written reviews, Braydon shares his expertise through the Pickleball Effect YouTube channel, offering instructional content and interviews with key figures in the pickleball community. He also co-hosts the Pickleball Effect: The Podcast, discussing the latest gear and developments in the sport. Braydon's dedication to providing honest and thorough evaluations has made him a trusted authority in the pickleball community, assisting countless players in making informed equipment choices.

Dale Van Scoyk

General Manager & Owner

PSM Consulting LLC

General Manager and Owner of PSM Consulting LLC, leads a professional staff of acoustical engineers focused on analyzing pickleball and padel sound conditions and developing mitigation solutions. He is a graduate of Purdue University, BS Electrical Engineering with MBA training from Arizona State University. Dale is a year-round pickleball competitor, a USA Pickleball Certified Referee and Ambassador, and a PPR Certified Instructor. This combination of hands-on racquet/paddle experience and acoustics technical expertise has been vital in addressing the noise issues potentially derailing the growth of the sport. Dale and PSM Consulting have worked on over 200 projects with court developers, parks and recreation departments, homeowner associations, municipalities and individuals seeking to add courts without alienating neighbors.

Lindsey Vermillion

Pickleball Partnerships Coordinator

Chicken N Pickle

Florida native Lindsey Vermillion joined the Chicken N Pickle team in 2021 as the company’s first Pickleball Partnerships Coordinator. Lindsey was a Sport Business major and Division 1 collegiate tennis player at Stetson University, and upon graduation, moved to Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, FL where she served as a tennis and pickleball teaching pro and later as the Racquet Club’s Assistant General Manager. nnAt Chicken N Pickle, Lindsey coordinates high-profile relationships between the company and pickleball communities, leading Chicken N Pickle-hosted initiatives with the APP NextGen and Collegiate Series, National Pickleball League, and National Junior Pickleball. She also leads relationships with the PPA tour, Major League Pickleball among other Pickleball tours, camps and companies. She has been instrumental in Chicken N Pickle’s partnership with the Special Olympics and its adaptive pickleball programs, which are now offered at all eleven of the company’s locations. nnAdditionally, Lindsey oversees and fosters relationships with Chicken N Pickle’s Sponsored Pro team and Ambassador Program, comprising more than 175 athletes from across the country.

Rich Wade

Director of Squash & Padel

The Philadelphia Cricket Club

Rich Wade is an accomplished racquet sports professional with over a decade of experience in coaching, development, and leadership. He holds a BA in Sport & Recreational Management from Leeds Beckett University in England and has earned multiple certifications, including UKCC Level 3 Squash Coach and Level 1 Racquetball Coach, US Squash Level 3 Tutor, PadelMBA Level 2, and Coach Developer certification from the Racquet Sport Professional Association (Squash).nnCurrently serving as the Director of Squash & Padel at The Philadelphia Cricket Club, Rich oversees the growth and development of these sports within the prestigious club. Previously, he held the role of Senior Director of National Teams & Coach/Officiating Certification at US Squash, where he contributed to the advancement of national teams and professional coaching standards.nnWith a deep commitment to racquet sports, Rich continues to shape the future of squash and padel, combining his expertise as a coach and leader to foster talent and elevate the sports globally.

Ian Westermann

Founder

Essential Tennis

Ian Westermann is a passionate, lifelong tennis coach with over 25 years of experience helping everyday tennis players reach their goals. A pioneer in online tennis learning, Ian launched the first ever tennis instruction podcast in 2008 (the "Essential Tennis Podcast") and began his YouTube channel in 2009 which now has over 300,000 subscribers, 90 million views, and 2,000 videos. He has dedicated his career to creating the most helpful, game transforming digital tennis instruction in the world and now has over 20,000 students in his paid, online coaching programs who play in 137 countries around the world. He’s also the author of the third best selling tennis coaching book on Amazon titled: “Essential Tennis - Improve Faster, Play Smarter, and Win More Matches”.nnAs a player, Ian attended and graduated from the Professional Tennis Management program at Ferris State University which works in partnership with the United States Professional Tennis Association to certify aspiring teaching professionals and other tennis industry leaders. While there, Ian walked on to the nationally ranked men’s tennis team as a sophomore and played three seasons of singles and doubles. He achieved a national doubles ranking of 14th in NCAA Division 2 competition his second year of play.nnIan lives with his wife of 20 years, Alison, outside of Milwaukee, Wisconsin with their 14 year old daughter and 11 year old son on a small hobby farm. The three cows, three horses, 50 chickens and 5 barn cats keep them busy, entertained and well fe

Julian Wortelboer

Founder

Padel Smash Academy

Julian, a former professional padel and tennis player, is a leading figure in racquet sports management with over 25 years of experience in private club operations. He co-founded Padel Smash Academy, the largest padel content platform in the U.S., dedicated to growing the sport through education, strategic partnerships, and entrepreneurial support. As the only certified Padel Master Coach in the U.S., Julian sets the standard for elite coaching and club management. He also serves as President of the Padel Coaches Association (PCA) and developed the first Padel Coaches Certification in the U.S., shaping the future of padel education.

Evan Zeder

Director of Global Sports Marketing, Tennis and Baseball

New Balance

Evan Zeder, Director of Global Sports Marketing, Tennis and Baseball, started working at New Balance in 2014. Previously, Evan spent 6 years building the tennis performance apparel brand athletic DNA, and prior to that was a member of the undefeated 2003 National Championship tennis team at University of Illinois.nnOverseeing strategic growth in the tennis and baseball categories, he has supported in the organization's Brand Purpose statement vision & enactment, company culture, and strategic road map towards $9.5B. Zeder has led successful negotiations with New Balance’s premier global tennis athletes and partners, including Coco Gauff, Tommy Paul, and the Australian Open. Additionally, Zeder leads athlete partnerships in baseball including Shohei Ohtani, Francisco Lindor, and the MLB.nnChanneling the brand’s fearlessly independent spirit and challenger brand mindset, Zeder was the driving force behind Coco Gauff’s signature shoe, the first and only of its kind in men’s and women’s tennis. His focus continues on driving forward New Balance’s presence in sport culture, transcending on and off the court.

Chris Zijlstra

Co-Founder & CEO

Matchable

Chris Zijlstra is the CEO and co-founder of Matchable, a marketplace that connects players directly with trainers and sport venues. He first identified the need for such a solution while serving as Head of Operations at a padel club in Amsterdam, where he struggled with the inefficiencies of arranging coaching sessions through emails and messages. With a background in digital product design, Chris and his partner assembled a team to develop Matchable further. Now partnered with leading software marketplaces MATCHi and Taykus, his innovative solution is set to transform the way padel, tennis and other private sport coaching sessions are managed.n

Richi de las Heras

Co-Founder and Sporting Advisor

Hexagon Cup / La Vida Padel CEO

Richi is a former professional padel player and former member of the Spanish Padel Team (2001-2010). In 2007, he founded La Vida Padel, a padel club brand now operating six clubs across Spain. Since 2023, he has also been the Co-Founder and Sporting Advisor of the Hexagon Cup, an international team-based padel competition.

Marcos del Pilar

Head of Padel

RSPA

Marcos del Pilar is a very successful serial entrepreneur and businessman as well as a Padel pioneer. He is an award-winning Global Padel Consultant, renowned speaker, and Master Teaching Professional. His determination, commitment, hard work, and powerful network have made Marcos become one of the most influential and important figures in the development of Padel in the United States since 2017. His continuous successes and great advances for the sport in these 9 years have made him known as The Godfather of Padel in the United States. He has also been recognized as Top #3 of the “Top 50 Most Influential Persons in the New Padel World” by international media.nnAmong other great milestones, he is the Fmr. USPA President and key leader behind the first ever Padel World Championship in the USA (2022) and he is proud Co-founder and Fmr. CEO & Commissioner of the worldwide known PRO PADEL LEAGUE.nnHe is a key piece for some of the most important Venture Capitals and Investment Groups involved in Padel in the world and cornerstone of most of the Padel projects in the United States.nnHis extensive and renowned experience in Management, Marketing and Sales, make him one of the most valued Padel Consultants all over the globe.nnDel Pilar has a true vocation for coaching, and he runs one of the most important projects in Padel Education in America with more than 800 coaches certified.nnMarcos has a clear vision to build a better world through Padel and Racquet Sports. With that in mind, he left his successful business in Europe to fully dedicate himself to what is his mission in life: to grow Padel in North America while creating opportunities for others.nnHe definitely has a very special talent to get the world inspired around him with his beginner’s mentality, disruption, creativity, and evolved business vision.nnHe is a giver, and generosity runs through his veins. He is a true encourager, joy-spreader, speaker, team builder, and Padel business growth strategist that enjoys making people’s lives better with “the magic of Padel”.