What’s Driving the Explosion of Pickleball and Padel?

In this episode of Racquet Fuel, hosts Kim Bastable and Simon Gale talk with industry pioneer David Johnson about the massive growth of pickleball and the rising momentum of padel in the United States. David shares his early journey co-founding Pickleball Central in 2006, what he’s learned watching the sport scale, and why participation curves are now shifting as the market matures.

The conversation breaks down the real data behind growth trends, why multi-sport facilities are becoming the new norm, and what operators need to know before adding padel. They dig into staffing needs, leadership skills, membership models, and how hospitality ultimately determines whether a facility thrives.

Hosts:
Kim Bastable - UF Director of Racquet Sports Education
Simon Gale - USTA Leader & Facility Executive

Guest:
David Johnson – Co-Founder of Pickleball Central, Pickleball Consultant

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