Curious about the 2026 Pickleball Innovators Summit and what all it entails? In this Discovery Session, Editor-in-Chief Rachel Chonko sits down with Mitch Dunn, founder of The Pickle Lodge and returning attendee, and Andrew Herrera, Director of Specification Sales at LSI Industries and returning sponsor, to pull back the curtain on what the Summit actually looks and feels like from the inside.
They cover the intimate, working-session format that sets it apart from traditional industry events, the peer-to-peer round tables where operators share the nitty-gritty of what’s actually working (and what isn’t), and the intentional networking design that ensures you leave knowing nearly everyone in the room. You’ll also get a preview of this year’s round table topics — court utilization, programming and revenue, member retention, leadership and culture, and youth and beginner growth — plus a look at the special Q&A session with an EVP at The Bay Club Company.
The 2026 Summit takes place October 12–14 at the Westin La Paloma Resort and Spa in Tucson, Arizona. Spots are limited to 45 operators. If you’re an owner, founder, GM, or multi-location operator wondering whether this event deserves a spot on your calendar, this is the place to start.
To learn more or register, email rachel@peakemedia.com or visit peakemediaevents.com/pbisummit. To inquire about sponsoring, email rico@peakemedia.com.
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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.
