At Pickleball Innovators, our mission is to empower and educate pickleball business owners, providing them with the knowledge and resources they need to thrive in the dynamic and fast-growing world of pickleball. In alignment with this mission, we’re thrilled to announce the founding members of the Pickleball Innovators Advisory Board. This distinguished group of leaders and innovators in the pickleball space will provide invaluable guidance as we continue to support the industry during this exciting period of growth.
Founding Advisory Board Members
Eric O’Connor, VP of Franchise Development, PickleRage
Will Richards, CEO & Founder, Dill Dinkers
Wendi Schlesinger, Pickleball Manager, Corpus Christi Athletic Club
Frank Lawrence, CEO, Little Rock Athletic Centers
Mookie McDevitt, VP of Strategic Partnerships, Ace Pickleball Club
Ted Angelo, CEO, The Hub Pickleball
Kelli Alldredge, President, Chicken N Pickle
Devan Egan, Owner and Founder, Club Pickleball USA / Pickleball Club Mastermind
These leaders bring decades of combined experience and a wealth of knowledge from various facets of the pickleball and recreation industries. Their collective expertise will help shape Pickleball Innovators’ educational and event initiatives, ensuring our content remains at the forefront of industry needs.
“The pickleball industry is evolving at an incredible pace, and resources like Pickleball Innovators are essential for helping operators navigate this dynamic landscape,” said Will Richards, the founder of Dill Dinkers and member of the advisory board. “By providing access to the latest trends, best practices and expert insights, Pickleball Innovators empowers business owners to make informed decisions and thrive. I’m honored to be a founding member of the Advisory Board and look forward to contributing to the growth and success of this vibrant industry.”
“I’d like to express sincere gratitude to each member of the Pickleball Innovators Advisory Board for being willing to share best practices and support the overarching pickleball industry, which is very much in its infancy,” added Rachel Chonko, the editor-in-chief of Pickleball Innovators. “Their guidance and support are sure to make an immeasurable impact for years to come.”
As the pickleball industry continues to evolve, the Pickleball Innovators Advisory Board will play a pivotal role in driving innovation and supporting business owners as they navigate this fast-growing sector.
For more information about Pickleball Innovators or to express interest in joining our advisory board, please visit pickleballinnovators.com or email rachel@peakemedia.com.
About Pickleball Innovators
Pickleball Innovators is the leading resource for pickleball business owners and operators, offering insights, strategies and tools to help them succeed in the rapidly growing sport. From best practices to industry trends and the 2025 Pickleball Innovators Summit, Pickleball Innovators is dedicated to supporting the success of pickleball ventures worldwide.
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With over a decade spent covering the business side of sports and fitness, Rachel Chonko brings a wealth of experience and a true passion for active communities to Peake Media. As Editor-in-Chief, she’s focused on helping pickleball clubs and fitness facilities thrive, from guiding growth strategies to showcasing the latest industry trends. Rachel also hosts the Club Solutions Magazine Podcast, where she interviews leaders in fitness and pickleball to share insights and success stories with the wider community to give her listeners a competitive edge.
After taking up pickleball herself, Rachel has come to appreciate the sport’s unique blend of social connection and active living — a mix that’s perfectly in line with her editorial philosophy. Connect with her on LinkedIn, or check out her articles below for a deep dive into the energy and culture driving pickleball’s rapid rise.
