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Exploring the Future of Pickleball and Padel Facilities: IAPPF 2025 Conference Preview

The International Association of Pickleball & Padel Facilities (IAPPF) will host its flagship event October 1–4 in Austin, Texas. This global conference is the go-to meeting point for professionals shaping the future of racquet sports venues.

The International Association of Pickleball & Padel Facilities (IAPPF) will host the 2025 International Conference & Expo from October 1-4 in Austin, Texas. This event is recognized as a significant gathering for professionals in the pickleball and padel facility sectors, providing insights into industry trends, operational strategies, and networking opportunities.


The key figure behind the International Association of Pickleball & Padel Facilities (IAPPF) is CEO and Co-Founder David Johnson. He is an internationally recognized pioneer in the pickleball industry, having co-founded Pickleball Central in 2006 at the onset of pickleball's modern resurgence. Under his leadership, Pickleball Central became the largest retailer in the industry, leading acquisitions such as Pickleball Tournaments and Pickleball Inc., and achieving significant annual sales before its eventual sale to Dundon Capital, owner of entities such as the PPA Tour, Major League Pickleball, and Pickleball Brackets.


Conference Sessions Focused on Pickleball & Padel Facility Excellence


The conference agenda includes two days dedicated to educational sessions covering key topics such as Programming, Operations, Marketing, Food & Beverage, current industry trends, Revenue Boosters, and facility management. Participants will have opportunities to learn from experienced industry figures.


Attendees can expect to gain practical knowledge from discussions focused on real-world experiences of facility operators, developers, and investors. The conference encourages an exchange of ideas and experiences among professionals aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and business practices.


Several specialized sessions are planned, including a Technology Roundtable, International Meetup, a gathering for Women in Pickleball, and a forum focused on investment in pickleball and padel facilities. These sessions aim to provide participants with targeted information and networking opportunities relevant to their professional interests.


Growth Trends in Pickleball & Padel Highlighted at the Conference


The conference also addresses the growth trends in pickleball and padel. Pickleball, in particular, is rapidly expanding in the United States, with roughly 74,000 courts and more than 17,000 locations. Padel is also gaining global traction. A key industry trend identified at the conference is the rise of multi-sport facilities that accommodate both pickleball and padel.


The event expects attendance from industry decision-makers actively involved in procurement and facility operations, making it an important platform for suppliers to connect with facility managers and owners.


The 2025 IAPPF Conference & Expo in Austin aims to support professional development and provide a space for meaningful dialogue on the future of pickleball and padel facilities.


More details here: https://iappf.org/

 

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