In the world of corporate networking, golf has long been the go-to activity for sealing deals and fostering relationships. However, a new contender is quickly gaining popularity: pickleball. Companies across the U.S. are increasingly turning to pickleball for its time-saving, cost-effective, and inclusive nature, making it an attractive alternative to golf for business engagements.
The Rise of Pickleball in Corporate Events
Recent trends show a significant increase in corporate bookings at pickleball clubs. PodPlay, a sports venue booking platform, reported a rise in corporate events in June, and operators of pickleball clubs nationwide have confirmed this uptick. For example, Ace Pickleball Club and Pickleballerz in Chantilly, Virginia, have seen a steady flow and even tripling of corporate event requests since 2021. Similarly, Life Time health club in New York now fields 10 to 20 corporate booking inquiries per week, a substantial increase from last year.
Why Pickleball?
- Inclusivity and Ease of Play: Unlike golf, which can be intimidating for beginners, pickleball is easy to learn and can be enjoyed by players of all skill levels. Chicago-based real estate broker Colin Hebson notes that pickleball allows newcomers to have fun and participate actively within minutes.
- Time and Cost Efficiency: A couple of games of pickleball can be completed in under two hours, costing around $80, compared to a half-day golf outing that can run up to $700.
- Better Return on Investment: Companies like Crush Yard in South Carolina report better engagement and ROI with pickleball events, as they involve more participants in a shorter timeframe.
- Broader Appeal: Pickleball appeals to a diverse group, including women and people of color, providing a more inclusive environment for networking.
Real-Life Examples
Pickleball's popularity is growing among professionals such as lawyers, bankers, and Realtors. In Rochester Hills, Michigan, lawyer-client meetings and business discussions frequently occur on pickleball courts. Executives at a Chicago-based marketing company found that hosting a pickleball tournament increased employee engagement, particularly among those who don’t enjoy golf.
Conclusion
Pickleball offers a fresh, modern alternative to golf for corporate networking. Its inclusivity, ease of play, time efficiency, and cost-effectiveness make it an ideal choice for fostering business relationships. As companies continue to seek innovative ways to engage clients and employees, pickleball is poised to become the new playground for corporate schmoozing.
Join the pickleball revolution and see how this exciting sport can transform your business interactions and boost your corporate culture!
