PicklePod

Despite ranking in the top 25 in men's singles, Grayson Goldin finds himself without a paddle contract and no guaranteed salary. For him, it's all about the results. After throwing down the gauntlet, Goldin won his second APP title and is on a mission to reach No.1. Follow Grayson's journey here: https://www.youtube.com/ ⁨@GraysonGoldin⁩ Pickleball veteran Anderson Scarpa is fresh off a triple crown victory at the PPA Challenger level. The win racked up some valuable PPA points, but Zane wants to know how the competition compares across tours. Jim Kloss educates us on the ins and outs of a new kind law, pickleball law. We tackle the Proton 'bankruptcy' case and see how USA Pickleball is fighting back against a lawsuit. Performance, comfort, and style in one effortless collection. Save 20% on apparel from MUEV with code THEDINK at https://muevbrand.com/collections/new-arrivals-2 Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ Grayson Goldin 0:00 Grayson Goldin returns to the pod 3:51 No Contract, No Guarantees 7:33 Living the ‘eat what you kill' life 9:55 How do you compare PPA to APP? 13:50 Playing as the favorite against Armaan Bhatia Anderson Scarpa 18:48 Anderson Scarpa triple crowns PPA Challenger 23:15 Where should a new player get started? Zane's Atlanta Preview 26:43 ATL Slam preview 30:01 Response to Ben/Collin fine 34:16 Listener Questions Jim Kloss 42:56 Jim Kloss rejoins the pod 45:15 Proton ‘bankruptcy' claims 49:25 Are there penalties for involuntary bankruptcy claims? 53:31 USAP's counterclaim against JOOLA 1:03:10 5 key points at the heart of the issue 1:09:35 What do the guts of the internal documents say? 1:10:58 Who does this hurt more? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Quang Duong is helping to accelerate pickleball's international growth. With guidance from his Dad/Coach, Duong is embracing his Vietnamese roots to launch a new signature paddle and apparel line. Fresh off a double gold victory at the US Open, Jack Munro stops by to show Zane his new hardware. One of those medals came in mixed doubles, where Zane's prediction for Andre Agassi and Anna Leigh Waters severely missed the mark. Phoenix Flames GM Brant Weiss shares how he has stepped into his new role as coach/meme lord/cheerleader. He explains how the AZ Drive became the Flames and what they have planned for MLP Phoenix. Our Guy Erik Tice helps recap all things MLP Columbus, including the Johns Bros withdraw that had the picklesphere buzzing. Find out how Zane thinks the situation could have been remedied on-site. Performance, comfort, and style in one effortless collection. Save 20% on apparel from MUEV with code THEDINK at https://muevbrand.com/collections/new-arrivals-2 Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Quang Duong signs with Sypik 6:04 Half a million is too small for us 7:00 The Avatar Ball Bender paddle 10:04 Legendary Duong family practices 14:55 How do you recover after long training sessions? 17:00 Everybody loves Bao 18:29 Quang lands Wika as shoe and apparel sponsor 23:20 Looking to Duc between points 26:22 Asian players still chasing US players … for now Brant Weiss 33:47 Coach Weiss promoted to meme lord 35:40 AZ Drive become the Phoenix Flames 37:37 Interesting trades in the offseason 39:45 Leaning into personality and vibes 41:59 What are the plans for MLP Phoenix? Erik Tice 43:49 Tice's MLP recap 48:12 The Squeeze surprising the field 50:53 Strength of schedule advantages 52:49 Miami hit big in the draft 56:52 50/50 rally vs traditional scoring 59:22 Counting days since last cursing incident 1:02:19 Shock trolling with ‘Security' guard shirt 1:04:02 Team Emmrich stepped up for the Hogs Jack Munro 1:08:09 Zane's son Jack Munro joins the pod 1:13:18 Is the US Open still a ‘major' 1:17:00 Why did ALW get the exception? 1:18:45 Zane with an all-time miss on the Agassi prediction 1:25:14 Life on the line - who do you partner with? 1:26:40 Will Howells riles up PPA crowd 1:33:00 Go follow Jack on YouTube Erik Tice 1:36:23 Addressing the Johns Bros Columbus withdraw 1:44:45 Where's the team support? 1:49:50 Fines and suspension Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The MLP season is officially underway and we've got a lot to cover after an exciting opening weekend. Orlando Squeeze owner Ryan DeVos provides a behind-the-scenes look at the new standard for MLP events. Christian Alshon was the center of attention again as new serve rules were challenged throughout the weekend. Alshon weighs in on the switch from rally to traditional scoring and hopes that we don't see any more orange courts in the near future. Will Howells was on court with Anna Leigh Waters and Hayden Patriquin when chaos erupted. He provides his firsthand account of the events and shares why the unique coed format of MLP creates a dynamic not typically seen in sports. Finally, Ben Padula from Real Clear Stats breaks down the data and has a recommendation that might just appease MLP players and spectators. Performance, comfort, and style in one effortless collection. Save 20% on apparel from MUEV with code THEDINK at https://muevbrand.com/collections/new-arrivals-2 Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ Ryan DeVos 1:49 Orange courts set the tone 6:10 Behind the scenes in hosting an MLP event 10:36 Can MLP thrive with less involved owners 12:06 The Squeeze embody the Flint Tropics

 Christian Alshon 16:20 Christian Alshon coaching at US Open 18:30 Alshon weighs in on new scoring system 20:13 Dishing out strategy during matches 22:09 Getting' Lost in the orange' 24:24 Playing by your own serve rules 26:20 Let's get the call right 32:37 Serve height rule is broken again 39:08 Weekend takeaways 40:50 Rapid fire and blind ranking 44:30 - 29:24 The Tice Spreadsheet 49:06 Tiers of MLP teams 54:50 The ‘new girlies' 56:46 Dylan Frazier and Tina Pisnik new paddles' 57:06 Agassi and ALW no doubters 59:51 Listener questions 1:03:39 Zane sticking up for his teammate Will Howells 1:02:38 Rehashing the ALW vs Big H altercation 1:08:45 Is there anything you'd do differently? 1:10:08 Coed pickleball brings a new dynamic 1:12:33 If Willie was commissioner for the day 1:16:38 Will's special deal to play MLP and APP in 2025 Ben Padula 1:19:58 Zane nerds out with Real Clear Stats 1:25:23 Is one game to 11 too short? 1:30:33 Strategy changes for rally vs traditional scoring Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Major League Pickleball Commissioner Samin Odhwani is the special guest on a new PicklePod. Commish previews the opening of the 2025 season, explains the updates behind expanded distribution and owner-hosted events. Next, Brooklyn Pickleball Team GM, Josh Gartman, breaks down the name swap between the Brooklyn and the DC team. Gartman recaps his offseason moves and the reunion of some of his championship players. Finally, Zane did a deep dive on the MLP rulebook and discovered that new serve rules are active in Orlando. And that's not all, new rules are in place for roster substitutions, home team advantages, and order of play. Pickleballs take 100 years to breakdown in a landfill. This new BioBall™ only takes 5 years, it lasts 5x longer on the court than anything else, and we all loved it in our play tests. Save 10% with code THEDINK https://komodopickleball.com/products/bioball?srsltid=AfmBOooBGMnny9yZ7LGDmm_kv2oPLvn3ZKbMUlJUXftTFVumY815CdJJ&sca_ref=8092923.JzF5RFN4VCnZ8y Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ Sadim Odhwani 0:00 Expanding MLP's reach in 2025 5:20 Saturday and Sunday Showcase matches 8:01 Returning to where the bodies are buried 10:20 What surface are we playing on? 13:18 Breaking News: Samin announced as new MLP Commissioner 15:25 Love or hate the Carolina Hogs 18:15 Blind ranking pro sports commissioners 25:51 Samin steals Zane's MLP legacy Add sound for transition at 28:50 and title Josh Gartman 28:50 Brooklyn PB Team GM Josh Gartman joins the pod 30:50 New York roots made the swap a no-brainer 32:45 Brooklyn adds Kawamoto and Newman in off-season 34:54 Blind ranking MLP GMs 39:55 ‘Fake News' surrounding tennis vs pickleball 43:45 Andre Agassi to partner with ALW at US Open 51:20 Leigh Waters looking for another pro gold at US Open 52:47 Big drama matches at MLP Orlando 59:58 Serve rules get an overhaul before MLP season 1:01:34 Substitution rule changes - 2-point penalty 1:05:50 Tice rapid fire questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zane Navratil and Thomas Shields talk about the fraud allegations leveled against Legacy Park in Mesa, AZ, by the SEC and DOJ. Legacy Park was supposed to be a utopia for the sport-obsessed. It had hosted multiple APP Tour, PPA Tour and Major League Pickleball events. Thomas then shares information he found in a book that claims that the Pritchard family were not the inventors of Pickleball. Instead, they took and modified the idea from a different political family on a nearby island. The original story goes that the Pritchard family, along with Bill Bell and Barney McCallum, developed the game and its rules on Bainbridge Island in 1965. Then, Zane and Thomas recap and react to the results of the PPA North Carolina Open from last weekend. Zane discusses ALW and other stars withdrawing due to the roll-out courts, and the two of them note how not a single #1 ranked player won gold. Finally, they are joined by Jacob Smith from DUPR to discuss the upcoming collegiate tournament they are hosting. Pickleballs take 100 years to breakdown in a landfill. This new BioBall™ only takes 5 years, it lasts 5x longer on the court than anything else, and we all loved it in our play tests. Save 10% with code THEDINK or click the link below LINK: https://komodopickleball.com/products/bioball?srsltid=AfmBOooBGMnny9yZ7LGDmm_kv2oPLvn3ZKbMUlJUXftTFVumY815CdJJ&sca_ref=8092923.JzF5RFN4VCnZ8y Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' free e-newsletter at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com - Follow us on IG: @thedinkpickleball -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zane Navratil and Thomas Shields talk to Christian Alshon, Tyra Black, and Paris Todd about their most recent gold medal wins at the PPA Texas Open, Ben Johns' calling out of yelling during matches, their goals for the coming year, and much more.  Christian Alshon is one of the fastest-rising stars in the world of Pickleball. His gold medal win at the PPA CIBC Texas Open was his second in a row. Overall he has 12 PPA medals and is ranked 9th in men's doubles and 8th in men's singles as of this recording. This was Tyra Black and Paris Todd's first doubles gold together. After a tough semi-finals match against The Girlies, they took care of business in the finals and won the tournament. On their way to the finals, they did not lose a game. Finally, Zane and Thomas talk to Jason Apses about the new SpotON Review System that was used on the championship court at the Texas Open. Jason explains why it was used, how it works, and the overall goals for its use moving forward.  Pickleballs take 100 years to breakdown in a landfill. This new BioBall™ only takes 5 years, it lasts 5x longer on the court than anything else, and we all loved it in our play tests. Save 10% with code THEDINK https://komodopickleball.com/products... Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/  Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' free e-newsletter at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com   / thedinkpickleball   -Follow us on IG  -Continue the convo in our private FB Group:   / thedi.  . -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zane Ford is quickly burning his way through the pro ranks. With his flashy style and unique accessories, he is catching attention (and some ricochets) from the competition. Andrei Daescu is one of the older players on the PPA Tour but he's had a resurgence unlike any other. After dominating on the APP Tour, he's moved to the PPA and won three straight men's doubles titles. We dig in on the secrets to his success. Finally, rumors are swirling about the lavish promises of international pickleball that have not come to fruition. Pickleball World Rankings CEO Pran Kohli joins the pod to explain why the tour has been delayed and what the future looks like for PWR. Pickleballs take 100 years to breakdown in a landfill. This new BioBall™ only takes 5 years, it lasts 5x longer on the court than anything else, and we all loved it in our play tests. Save 10% with code THEDINK https://komodopickleball.com/products/bioball?srsltid=AfmBOooBGMnny9yZ7LGDmm_kv2oPLvn3ZKbMUlJUXftTFVumY815CdJJ&sca_ref=8092923.JzF5RFN4VCnZ8y Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ Zane Ford 0:00 Violent Pickleball 2:34 Zane's tennis background 6:30 Going full time pickleball 7:22 Leg sleeves and no lenses 10:55 Going toe-to-toe with Jaume Martinez Vich 15:05 Navigating being the New Guy 17:50 Media training and on-court training and future goals 20:38 Zane is headlining the NY Hustlers 21:41 Zane's extreme grip 26:25 Balancing spin and power with the semi-western grip 28:10 Blind ranking paddle brands Andrei Daescu 32:40 Andrei three-peated and is still underrated 34:55 Carrying Ben Johns to gold 38:59 What happened to the philosophy tweets? 42:10 Andrei is the Nadal of pickleball 45:55 Do you miss grinding on the APP Tour? 48:54 What happened with the suspension last year? 51:12 Blind ranking tennis converts 56:40 The Proton team bonding 59:15 Pickleball World Rankings under the microscope Pran Kohli 1:08:27 1:01:44 PWR dealing with delays 1:13:45 Team valuations were too low 1:17:00 Do the teams have owners? 1:20:02 Allegations of players not being paid 1:23:18 The new timeline for 2025 1:18:40 Indian taxes and documentation affecting payments Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The first paddle challenge of 2025 revealed some major flaws in the system. Travis Rettenmaier challenged three paddles at PPA Mesa and despite winning the challenge, received no retribution. JOOLA Chief Experience Officer Gordon Kaye weighs in on the situation and explains how the world of professional table tennis handles paddle testing differently. Finally Erik Tice drops in to cover the MLP Draft winners and losers. Plus Zane convinces him to blind rank the best 'pickleball stats nerds'. Are you the go-to source for pickleball news and equipment in your area? Become a Royal Pickleball Ambassador and help your community test out new products and more. Join here: http://ambassadors.royalpickleball.com/ Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 00:00:00 - The First Paddle Challenge of the Year 00:06:16 - Future of Paddle Testing 00:10:12 - New Paddle Launch Discussion 00:15:01 - Andre Agassi's Involvement 00:16:32 - Travis Rettenmaier's Paddle Challenge 00:20:28 - Reflections on the Challenge Process 00:23:02 - Proposed Solutions for Paddle Testing 00:28:02 - MLP Draft Analysis and Surprises 00:30:07 - Team Strategies and Spending 00:37:05 - Carolina's Draft Decisions 00:40:30 - Ben's Engagement in MLP 00:45:22 - Martin Emmerich's Draft Status Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The king is in the building. Pickleball's No. 1 ranked singles and doubles player Federico Staksrud joins the pod. We cover Fed's controversial semifinal loss to Hunter Johnson at the PPA Mesa Cup. Next we talk targeting and Fed explains how the rule was immediately suspended after the failed call on Hayden Patriquin. Finally, the guys question if Fed receives the respect he deserves considering his No.1 ranking or he is stuck in the shadow of Ben Johns. PSA: Pickleballs take 100 years to breakdown in a landfill. This new BioBall™ only takes 5 years, lasts 5x longer, and we loved it in our play tests. Please consider eco-friendly play with a ball that is just as good, lasts longer, and is the same exact price. Save 10% with code "THEDINK". https://komodopickleball.com/products/bioball?srsltid=AfmBOooBGMnny9yZ7LGDmm_kv2oPLvn3ZKbMUlJUXftTFVumY815CdJJ&sca_ref=8092923.JzF5RFN4VCnZ8y Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 An empty tank for bronze medal matches 7:18 The new singles strategy is to stay back 11:14 Any hope for the drop serve? 12:00 Tempers flare in Fed vs Hunter Johnson semifinal 20:45 Do you regret the ‘Non-American' comment? 23:23 You can't challenge a challenge 28:57 What was the ‘medical timeout' for? Who were you flipping off? 33:19 The first targeting call got reversed immediately 38:20 The poster boy of Adidas but using a JOOLA paddle 42:08 Any case for using a singles vs doubles paddle 44:42 ALW had an all-time performance 47:19 MLP announces ability to steal players 52:29 Did you get enough respect being the world's no. 1 player? 58:30 Blind ranking 5 signature shots 1:01:02 The first paddle challenge of the year Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's a full house on the PicklePod this week as we hear from four special guests. First up is Erik Tice who breaks down the Max Freeman contract situation and the surprising results of the MLP keep/drop exchange. Then Zane goes off on how he judges if a player is a bad line caller or flat-out cheater. Next up, John Kew gives us the update on the Ronbus Ripple listing and subsequent de-listing that had paddle fans scratching their heads. Finally, the first international signed UPA players, Tom Evans and Helena Spiridis share their journey to pro pickleball and Tom breaks down his big win over Federico Staksrud. Try out the shoes that are Zane-tested and Zane-approved, the new XRZ shoes from SQAIRZ https://sqairz.com/ Get your BioBalls at http://komodopickleball.com/ Let's keep our courts green, one rally at a time. Have your own pickleball glow-up with new apparel from MUEV https://muevbrand.com/ Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ Erik Tice 0:00 What happened with Max Freeman contract? 5:04 Will Howells is in a unique situation 10:22 The Hustlers dropped their ENTIRE team 13:20 60% of players will change teams in 2025 15:05 Suprised by the Kate Fahey drop 18:30 How long to turn D1 tennis player into MLP player? 21:31 Federico Staksrud in paddle turmoil 28:28 New UPA-A targeting rule debate 35:30 Retaliation will also be punished 41:45 Zane landed a new shoe deal 48:56 Searching for the best player in NYC 52:19 Zane's glow up is in session 55:18 Cheating - just cheating 1:00:48 Is cheating a byproduct of hot paddles 1:03:35 Jay and Fed weigh in on line calls 1:12:10 A malicious nasty nelson is a wild move 1:14:39 Did we go too hard on the Collin episode? 1:18:45 Max Freeman forced to drop top partners i.e. Ben 1:28:20 Zane got nasty nelsoned by Jack Sock 1:31:45 ALW got asked to prom picture 1:33:54 Pickleheads raised 2.5mm 1:37:30 Coincidental loss for Fed in Tucson with Adidas paddle 1:40:49 Hunter are Parris dominated Super Bowl Sunday Leo Meme 1:43:05 Andrei and Alshon looked dangerous in Tucson 1:46:25 Blind ranking backhand flicks John Kew 1:50:50 John Kew digging up bones 1:53:25 Finally back to pickleball - What happened to the Ripple? 1:56:55 There are different versions of the Ripple that hit the market 2:02:00 What motivated USA Pickleball to test a second batch? 2:05:27 All approved paddles will also get PBCoR stamp Tom Evans and Helena Spiridis 2:09:15 Say hello to Tom and Helena 2:15:20 Tom started getting results in 2023 2:18:55 Which pros were you intimidated by? 2:20:32 Where are pickleball hubs in Australia? 2:23:38 When are making the move to the US? 2:26:18 Top 3 players in Australia 2:28:26 Signed on with UPA and eligible for MLP 2:33:42 What are the biggest differences between U.S. and Aussie pickleball 2:35:30 Tom's big win over Federico Staksrud 2:38:50 Guess my DUPR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zane went down under to compete in the first-ever PPA Australia Open. While on-site he sat down with PPA Tour CEO Connor Pardoe, and Australian pickleballers Joey Wild, Roos Van Reek, and Brendan Lee. Listen to the leaders of the Australian pickleball movement explain how the game is rapidly growing in the country. Joey Wild explains how the tennis Australian Open has embraced pickleball despite most tennis tournaments resisting the sport. Connor Pardoe details how the United Pickleball Association is approaching international growth and navigating government restrictions in each country. Brendan Lee breaks down the emerging professional leagues and organizations trying to guide the sport in Australia. Get your BioBalls at http://komodopickleball.com/ Let's keep our courts green, one rally at a time. Ditch the slip-n-slide and grab some 4on TotalGrip Spray. Find it on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/4on-Total-Grip-Spray-Pickleball/dp/B0CDQSZ61M/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2A2GTY0IXP720&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.lApjO6QjNRWGEN536a4n4xOiruibPTkBAkb75FZX5dHxxFcOWb54K5Dk7rw2PPjjhMdCVWPe5RUlgnYS46GmNYjZ9n-snmPHQG-RqiQOip63yU9bUwqKnDz3o8BvRYsAKnkCUOyfhYVtpKpinHBkRM9I_0sAx-2Q7N2V349YiaDYgZ850wiwx5kIHaZMmP8mWtdWStcYbzr-BaCeSCF3UTcA-q-cf0F2sUB0NICnoYZyTqvSvzuQSR3QK77SUnVf.0Nq2fjcVYIAaS8ov0J7d8LaJjbEe562Do9CaWnluyFU&dib_tag=se&keywords=4on+totalgrip+spray&qid=1737993916&sprefix=4on%2Caps%2C181&sr=8-1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ Connor Pardoe - PPA Tour CEO 0:00 Connor has some Australian roots 2:54 First international PPA Tour stop 6:38 How the PPA Tour is approaching Asia 8:25 What are the challenges with international events? 10:58 PPA Tour rolling out the Challenger Series 14:17 Why did Zane choose international partners? Joey Wild - Australian Pro Player 16:38 The Aussie pro pickleball landscape NPL vs PPA 19 :35 The National Pickleball League model 22:05 Playing pickleball at the Australian Open 29:45 Tennis embracing pickleball Roos Van Reek - Australian Pro Player 34:06 Roos is an Honorary Australian 37:43 Gap year turned pickleball pro 41:03 Would you move to the US to train? 44:13 What is pickleball like in China? 46:51 Who are your normal partners? + MLP Australia Brendan Lee - Pickleball Australia Executive Officer 48:20 “We hope they all win” and Aussie rules 52:59 There are very few public-access tennis courts 56:52 Australia wasn't ready for pro pickleball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Samin Odhwani is the newly appointed Chief Strategy Officer at the United Pickleball Association. Heading into his first year in the role Samin and the team at UPA gave Major League Pickleball a major overhaul. Zane and Thomas run through the changes that include a switch from rally to side-out scoring, an addition of 2 players to each premier level roster, and exclusive contracts that require planned be signed to UPA in order to play MLP. Plus for the first time ever, MLP team owners will have control of events in their home city. Will any team take the opportunity to blow pickleball out of the water? As reported by CNBC, each team has the chance to reach profitability on their own terms. For some that includes renting out an airplane hanger for a Lil Wayne concert. Who will top that in 2025? Get your BioBalls at http://komodopickleball.com/ Let's keep our courts green, one rally at a time. Ditch the slip-n-slide and grab some 4on TotalGrip Spray. Find it on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/4on-Total-Grip-Spray-Pickleball/dp/B0CDQSZ61M/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2A2GTY0IXP720&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.lApjO6QjNRWGEN536a4n4xOiruibPTkBAkb75FZX5dHxxFcOWb54K5Dk7rw2PPjjhMdCVWPe5RUlgnYS46GmNYjZ9n-snmPHQG-RqiQOip63yU9bUwqKnDz3o8BvRYsAKnkCUOyfhYVtpKpinHBkRM9I_0sAx-2Q7N2V349YiaDYgZ850wiwx5kIHaZMmP8mWtdWStcYbzr-BaCeSCF3UTcA-q-cf0F2sUB0NICnoYZyTqvSvzuQSR3QK77SUnVf.0Nq2fjcVYIAaS8ov0J7d8LaJjbEe562Do9CaWnluyFU&dib_tag=se&keywords=4on+totalgrip+spray&qid=1737993916&sprefix=4on%2Caps%2C181&sr=8-1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Infinity new rules for MLP 3:17 What's wrong with ‘festival style'? 5:05 Where's the sweet spot in schedule length? 6:43 What the hell is up with the new scoring? 13:03 Pickleball needs to solve awareness first 18:51 Only UPA-contracted players can participate in MLP events 24:10 Case study for Sofia Sewing deciding to sign or remain a free agent 27:32 What does an entry-level contract look like? 31:44 When contracts expire will the structure switch back to incentive-based? 33:14 Rosters are expanding from 4 to 6 players 40:30 CNBC article indicates two teams profitable, looking to add two teams 46:50 Viewership numbers from PickleballTV and YouTube 57:40 What is the sales outlook for expansion franchises? 1:05:40 Any regrets on the Twitter beef with Jilly B? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Kew is at the forefront of pickleball paddle technology. He is setting up a top-in-class testing facility in his basement in Colorado including a PBCoR testing setup. Zane and John cover the ongoing power struggle between paddle companies and UPA-A's emergence as a governing body in the sport. Zane weighs in on the Quang Duong paddle situation from the PPA Masters. John gives his top paddle recommendations for amateur players and recommends a shape that most players might be overlooking in the search for the perfect paddle. Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Introducing John Kew 5:44 Explaining the PBCoR test 10:07 Navigating the new UPA-A certification process 14:46 The race for exit velocity testing 18:16 Interim approval process concerns 25:10 No way to police that many paddles 28:30 Destructive testing is a necessity 29:50 UPA-A's response to the Selkirk Letter 37:28 John's opinion on power limits 41:50 How humidity affects paddles 44:15 Output testing opens the door for more material usage 46:40 Jill Braverman claims UPA is ‘House of cards' 51:00 Embracing a Dana White role 53:44 The Breakthrough series 57:43 Should amateurs use pro paddles? 1:01:30 Are you a coward if you play with a Mod? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fresh off a gold medal at the PPA Masters, Collin Johns joins the PicklePod. He shares the details behind the Johns Brothers' breakup and why Gabe Tardio was the right partner choice to strengthen the team and eliminate the competition. Zane and Collin debate a violation of the unwritten rules of pro pickleball that led to a shocking bodybag attempt on Quang Duong. Quang also made headlines for a mid-match paddle switch and dropping partners at the last minute. Collin provides insight into his business ventures like Johns Design and Consulting which is helping pickleball facilities create high-quality courts. He is excited about a trip down under to play in the PPA Australia Pickleball Open and the chance to expand his brand. Save $25 on your new Proton Paddle exclusively at pickleballcentral.com with code THEDINK. Shop the Proton collection here: https://pickleballcentral.com/paddles/by-brand/proton-pickleball-paddles/ Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Collin breaks the appearance record 2:57 The Johns Bros decision to split 9:57 Did your level of play go down or did the field catch up? 13:48 No regrets after winning the PPA Masters 16:55 Collin's partners for 2025 20:46 Not ready to be a full-time coach 24:50 The outlook for Ben and Gabe 28:45 Ben fired a warning shot at Quang 33:30 Zane's take on the unwritten rule 38:40 The unwritten rules of pro pickleball 39:55 Quang had a busy weekend at PPA Masters 49:13 Will we use a plastic ball in 40 years? 55:12 How green dye affects durability 58:25 Playing with a new ball every match 1:00:16 Collin is going down under to play PPA Australia 1:03:40 Zane owes Roddick a kick in the nuts 1:05:28 How Johns Design & Consulting helps facilities 1:09:30 What do all lines skid? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jim Kloss is known for hot takes in the world of pickleball. He provides his 25 predictions for 2025 and his analysis on the Johns Bros split. Later in the episode, Zane and Jim cast their votes for the Nike Dink Awards. Vote along with Zane and Jim at https://dinkawards.com/. All voters are automatically entered into a giveaway to win one of 10 Project 007 paddles from Selkirk along with a full performance outfit. Watch the biggest team pickleball event in history. It's The Dink Minor League Pickleball National Championship December 13-15. Watch it here: @TheDinkPickleball  Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Pickleball's Stephen A Smith 3:53 When did you decide to stir things up in the pickleball forum? 8:44 The Bill James sabermetrics legacy 12:28 Every player will have a bench coach soon 14:00 Analyzing the Ben Johns and Collin Johns split 20:40 Who will Ben pick in 2025? 23:15 Offense comes from the wings 25:11 The importance of eliminating safe zones 27:27 Best part of 2025 is the new partnerships 28:29 The Nike Dink Awards - Men's Player of the Year 30:41 Women's Player of the Year 32:35 Senior player of the year 34:39 The case for Men's most improved player 39:29 Women's most improved player 40:49 Rising Star debate and Best on-air personality 43:36 Nominees for Podcast of the Year 45:40 Best on-court antics write-in votes 47:57 Best dressed players and Best Beef 49:20 Unfiltered Predictions for 2025 52:19 The lore behind Wright vs Kloss 56:35 Jack Sock or Donald Young in 2025 58:28 Will Staksrud/Rohrabacher last in 2025? 1:01:02 The No.2 player in the women's game 1:04:25 Hunter Johnson will be the No.1 singles player in 2025 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No one was hotter than hotter than Hunter Johnson at the end of the 2024 season. He won three PPA titles in the second half of the year including a win at the PPA Finals. Hear Hunter explained the mindset change that helped him reach the top and his take on the state of paddles and where he hopes to land as one of the few top players without a paddle sponsor. Meet Mitopure® the only clinically validated, highly pure Urolithin A supplement. Use code DINK at checkout for 10% off your order. https://www.timeline.com/dink Use code DINK10 to save 10% off the CHUCK ball at https://www.gammasports.com/ Watch the biggest team pickleball event in history. It's The Dink Minor League Pickleball National Championship December 13-15. Watch it here: @TheDinkPickleball  Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 I was hoping to win a car at the PPA Finals 4:25 Making things official with the PPA 8:50 Comparing the Vulcan ball to the Dura 11:06 What do you miss about the APP Tour? 13:00 Life as a paddle free agent 16:33 Are you competitive with twin brother Yates? 18:54 Thoughts on the Finals format 22:00 What contributes to Tyson McGuffin's longevity? 24:45 Paddles providing a 20% boost to some players 28:05 The difference with Paddletek's core 31:38 Power ranking the top 5 in men's singles 38:36 The role of Coach Hunter 40:21 The strategy to build a full pickleball career and crypto talk 44:05 The post-tournament routine with Parris and Yates 45:55 Do you put weight at the bottom of your paddle? 51:17 Weight distribution for singles and doubles 53:52 Hunter and Zane are going to play straight up 56:13 Throwing it back to Hilton Head with Altaf Merchant 58:45 Thomas Wilson's health update 1:04:04 SorryNotSorry unloading on Instagram 1:06:31 Look who beat Ben and Collin 69-0 1:08:54 Guess my DUPR powered by Mitopure Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you ask Chat GPT who the number 1 player in India is, it will tell you the triple crown champion Armaan Bhatia. He is leading the pickleball revolution in India and will influence how the game develops as factions compete in the newest version of tour wars. Meet Mitopure® the only clinically validated, highly pure Urolithin A supplement. Use code DINK at checkout for 10% off your order. https://www.timeline.com/dink Use code DINK10 to save 10% off the CHUCK ball at https://www.gammasports.com/ Watch the biggest team pickleball event in history. It's The Dink Minor League Pickleball National Championship December 13-15 in St. Louis, MO. Watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/@TheDinkPickleball Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 From 3.5 to 6.2 in one year 2:38 Who's the best pickleball player in India? 7:23 What was your first exposure to pickleball? 10:41 What is the pickleball landscape today? 14:43 Is pickleball taking over tennis infrastructure 15:20 Popular paddle brands in India 23:06 Pickleball on top of Antilia 27:14 The most influential players in the game 31:23 The next frontier of tour wars 37:15 Making the most of a trip to the US 42:48 Zane's take on the MLP Finals loss 51:21 ALW and Will absent from the trophy presentation 53:49 Would you rather win a PPA Gold or MLP title? 58:39 Armaan comes from a family of athletes 1:00:57 Guess my DUPR powered by Mitopure Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The podcast Gaunlet at the World Championships in Dallas gave us more guests than we could squeeze into one episode. Part two is out now and features: - Connor Pardoe sharing battle stories from inside of the Tour Wars - Grayson Godin and Hanna Blatt talk about breaking through in pro pickleball in 2024 and playing mixed doubles with a significant other - Travis Rettenmaier explaining his journey to becoming MLP's Jackie Moon and new investors joining the Florida Smash team Save $25 on Proton Paddles with code THEDINK exclusively at pickleballcentral.com Want to own a piece of the pickleball growth? The Pickleball Club is now accepting investors. Learn more at https://www.thepickleballclub.us/invest/ Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Intro 1:12 Grayson Goldin and Hannah Blatt join 4:34 Going under contract and making content 9:00 Playing mixed with your significant other 13:49 Grayson's Bitcoin experiment 17:54 Hannah's successful squash beginnings 22:20 Travis Rettenmaier joins the pod 25:02 Travis is the ‘Florida man' and Graham updates 29:17 Where does a solo Ben Johns rank playing Challenger doubles? 32:45 Zane's secret 2vs1 strategy 36:50 What's next for the Florida Smash? 41:52 Appreciation for Travis letting it rip 47:02 Connor Pardoe joins the pod 51:27 Finally moving forward after the merger 53:28 Addressing rumors of killing MLP 56:08 Decentralizing MLP events 59:01 The Black Diamonds winning financially 1:00:40 Rehashing the struggles of the tour wars 1:05:50 Happy that the merger happened 1:08:45 What are the next big steps for PPA/MLP? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Michael Loyd took out some of the biggest names in the game on the World Championship stage. The 21-seed topped Ben Johns, JW Johnson, and Quang Duong in three consecutive days. Based on DUPR, he had a 1% chance to escape the round of 16. We talked about how he devised a winning strategy and how an attitude change has let him be himself on the court. Meet Mitopure® the only clinically validated, highly pure Urolithin A supplement. Use code DINK at checkout for 10% off your order. https://www.timeline.com/dink Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Ben Johns was scared to play me 6:50 Michael's change in mindset was key 8:44 Most tats outside of Tyson 13:30 Avoiding the letdown match 16:37 Most surprised by the Quang upset 21:08 Are you doing anything different with your game 26:41 Is Riley Newman back? 31:23 Quang and CJ upset the Johns bros 36:11 The Gabe Tardio trajectory 38:27 Travis can ‘win that one on my deathbed' 39:35 Foot fault review escalated in 25-minute review 46:55 Travis stands on principle - looks like 40yr old Loyd 49:15 Is Kate Fahey a clear No. 2? 51:25 The Girlies won in straights - do we have a rivalry? 55:30 Would we ever see a Jorja/ALW partnership? 59:03 How did you like playing MLP? 1:04:11 The Arizona Pickleball League experience 1:08:27 Guess my DUPR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It was a reunion at the UPA World Championships. Zane and Thomas caught up with some of the biggest personalities in the game including ‘Coach to the Stars' Matt Manasse, Kamryn Blackwood, Tyler Loong, Jimmy Miller, and Greg Dow. Together they cover how paddles are providing an unfair boost to some players, a review of the MLP season, and predict what the future of the game is going to look like. If you're ready to elevate your game, check out MUEV at https://muevbrand.com/?utm_source=TheDink&utm_medium=Podcast&utm_campaign=Nov24 and join the MUEVMENT today. Save 30% during the holiday season with code DINK30. Want to own a piece of the pickleball growth? The Pickleball Club is now accepting investors. Learn more at https://www.thepickleballclub.us/invest/ Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Are there crossover PicklePod/KOTC fans? 2:19 Jimmy coming after The 5's 4:45 First team all annoying MLP 5:18 Beefing with Jim Kloss on X 11:59 Logging DUPR matches 12:55 Who's getting dropped from the Premier teams 16:26 How has the MLP brand performed since the merger? 19:36 Are there still complaints about the Gen 2 Vulcan PRO Flight? 22:20 Players leaning on paddle tech to help their game 25:10 Conflicts of interest in pro pickleball 27:24 Greg Dow cameo and monologue 30:08 Zane plays better when he's angry 31:41 Thomas' didn't get the invite back to pros vs 5.0s 35:04 Greg joins the show for real this time 38:37 Greg Dow's relocation and relationship 41:52 The people love Dow in the booth 47:40 Kamryn Blackwood and Matt Manasse join the pod 51:02 Pickleball Coach to the Stars' Oh Sh*t moment 53:05 Do you do a lot of homework on each player 55:35 We need to ask the hard questions 58:19 Zane wants to interview the losers of a match Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dave Fleming has been dubbed 'The Voice of Pickleball' and we put that name to the test by trying out some new catchphrases. We dissect new stats that reveal what you should be choosing at the coin toss and why getting out to an early lead is more important than ever. Meet Mitopure® the only clinically validated, highly pure Urolithin A supplement. Use code DINK at checkout for 10% off your order. https://www.timeline.com/dink Want to own a piece of the pickleball growth? The Pickleball Club is now accepting investors. Learn more at https://www.thepickleballclub.us/invest/ Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedink.beehiiv.com https://www.instagram.com/thedinkpickleball/ -Follow us on IG -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Dave Fleming ‘The Voice of Pickleball' 4:30 Are paddles too hot? Is that bad for the TV product? 11:30 What is the best route to govern the serve? 17:27 What happens after a pro event 26:02 Do you practice your catchphrases? 28:37 Zane's takes on commentary 34:11 Pickleball needs a ‘Manningcast' 37:52 Dave tries out new catchphrases 43:20 Dave's involvement as the Carolina GM 50:32 Addressing tanking allegations 53:57 How do you coach the best in the world? 56:41 Predictions for the playoffs? 1:03:30 THe data Dave wants to see in the broadcast 1:09:20 Starting fast vs slow according to data 1:11:01 Data around the first serve and better side 1:15:15 The players with the most pickles 1:21:40 Benefitting from the progression draw 1:23:38 Guess My DUPR powered by Mitopure Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Christian Alshon is the special guest on a new PicklePod. We dive into Alshon's Twitter battle with James Blake, Nick Kyrgios, and the rest of the tennis world. Alshon shares why tensions have been high between him and the Johns bros at recent PPA events. He also explains his plans for creating content while competing at the highest level. Want to own a piece of the pickleball growth? The Pickleball Club is now accepting investors. Learn more at https://www.thepickleballclub.us/invest/ Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 The ‘villain' that pickleball needs 4:22 What does the real Christian look like? 7:24 Will Howells is the new bad boy of pickleball 9:26 Alshon's Twitter battle vs big tennis 17:19 James Blake challenged Alshon to a racquet vs hands match 24:20 Christian weighed the pro tennis option 28:55 Transferring to a better academic school 34:22 The beef vs the Johns bros 40:04 Running into Matt Wright on a bad day 41:48 One for the conspiracy theorists 44:20 Missing MLP Vegas with the Texas Ranchers 48:19 Alshon's knee injury and MLP under fire 53:32 The content creation game 56:02 Christian's first vlog 1:00:09 Breaking down pro pickleball matches 1:05:44 Christian's take on the state of paddles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donald Young made a historic run to the U.S. Open mixed doubles finals in his final pro tennis tournament ever. At the nation's biggest tennis event, the topic of conversation was pickleball. On this week's PicklePod, Young breaks down what that event meant to him, the lifestyle difference between tennis and pickleball, and the tips that have helped him compete at the highest level. Want to own a piece of the pickleball growth? The Pickleball Club is now accepting investors. Learn more at https://www.thepickleballclub.us/invest/ Save $25 on Proton Paddles with code THEDINK exclusively at pickleballcentral.com Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Donald Young made the most of his final tennis event 5:39 Reactions to the ‘Pickleball Pro makes US Open Final' graphic 9:07 Making money in tennis vs pickleball 13:04 Donald's early appearance at the 2022 Atlanta Open 14:41 What is your training regiment? 16:12 The backhand flick is the last thing for tennis players 18:23 No one clobbers a forehand like Donald Young 21:38 Message to all tennis players outside of the top 100 22:40 Donald Young's new facility in Atlanta 29:18 If not pickleball, what would you be doing? 33:02 Donald did a YouTube crash course to improve at pickleball 39:13 What is your experience in MLP 42:34 Should there be more singles in MLP? 46:24 How Donald landed on Team Proton 51:13 UPA-A certification plans for 2025 55:30 Donald wants more spin, less power 1:01:20 PPA Virginia Beach Timeout Gate 1:08:40 Donald's experience at the Bubbly Championships Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kaitlyn Kerr shares her journey from pickleball superfan to MLP team owner. She helped assemble the Las Vegas Night Owls and is now focused on growing something that no one can take away from her. Kaitlyn weighs in on the gender disparity in the leadership of the sport and shares her plans to carve out a bigger spot for women in the game. Catch the premiere now! Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 4:07 The start of @thepickleball.chick 8:28 Kaitlyn focusing on her personal brand now 13:57 It's hard to go pro in New Jersey 17:30 How do you put together an ownership group? 21:00 Is Tom Brady still active in ownership? 26:39 The game is taking Kaitlyn around the world 31:56 What amateur players can offer potential sponsors 38:12 What does a GM do in MLP? 43:58 There's only 1 female GM in MLP 45:32 Drafting at the challenger level 53:33 Analyzing MLP trades after NYC 1:00:23 Waiver predictions for the Challenger Level 1:08:12 One match to make it to the Premier Level 1:09:54 A REAL ATHLETE on the court 1:15:25 Anna Leigh Waters is stil 1 of 1 1:20:27 Why is there less female representation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You know you've made it in pickleball when they change a rule because of you. Will Howells' performance at MLP NYC was one of the reasons a new rule was in place days after the event. Learn how Will has adopted pickleball after a tennis career at Notre Dame, find out who is behind the Will Howells fan page on IG, and hear all about The 5s experience in the Big Apple. Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 The Will Howells fan page 2:31 Did Will think he'd go premier? 6:36 How do you decide where to play? 8:35 “All serves all legal” 12:00 New serve rules for Virginia Beach 14:30 The most annoying team in MLP 22:39 The 75 percent rule 27:10 What's clicking for Will and Zane? 37:47 Guess my DUPR Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

World-renowned entrepreneur and online personality Gary Vee is the very special guest on PicklePod this week. He explains the unique aspect of pickleball that made it a no-brainer investment. Gary and New Jersey 5s GM Ryan Harwood disclose the ‘Big Bet' draft strategy that won them Anna Leigh Waters. Gary shares his perspective on controlling the momentum in sports and how he plays the mental game. Save $25 on all Proton paddles with code THEDINK exclusively at pickleballcentral.com Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 The value of a signed 5s paddle 3:04 MLP investment backstory 5:40 Is this your fastest return on investment? 10:30 Pickleball closes the age and gender gap 12:44 From on paper to actual cash flow 14:36 MLP's lax rules on celebrations 18:13 Gary explains the momentum if racquet sports 23:16 Gary was pot committed to Anna Leigh Waters 29:05 We need distinct seasons 32:52 MLP won't reach full potential until it is city-based 37:06 Building the personal brand as a player 44:46 Overlooked business opportunities 46:05 How to move pickleball to the mainstream 49:01 ATP players looking to make the switch to pickleball 53:00 What's the pitch to potential brands? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you're a true pickleball fan then you've seen a video from  @thatpickleballguy  He's been creating entertaining and instructional pickleball content and amassed one of the biggest followings in the game all while working on a pro pickleball career. We cover how analytics will change the way the game is played, what good vs bad pickleball coaching looks like, and a new offensive shot that you've probably never tried. Save $25 on all Proton paddles with code THEDINK exclusively at pickleballcentral.com Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 A special guest caller 5:02 Kyle's early pickleball days 8:11 The King of YouTube 12:44 The ‘Drive to Survive' of pickleball and Breaking Pickleball 16:40 From content creator to legit pro player 19:35 A new provisional serve rule is in play 28:09 Diminishing returns on serve height 33:48 Rumors of a Kyle and Dayne Gingrich podcast 34:35 People are reluctant to get coaching 39:18 Relying on analytics and pbvision 45:25 The launch of That Pickleball School 51:57 What's your most controversial coaching take? 56:10 Baiting the other team into hitting an ATP 1:00:30 Guess my DUPR 1:05:20 Jardim, Yates, Gullo added to the Hall of Fame Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Infamous pickleball influencer Matty Pickles joins the PicklePod this week. Matty had a front row seat at the Las Vegas Cup and compares his notes from the stands to what Zane experienced on court. We talk court conditions, serve rule controversies, play Guess My DUPR, and react to the Selkirk Letters. We play Guess My DUPR and react to the Selkirk Letters that have dominated the pickleball conversation. Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 The world's shortest pickleball podcast 3:46 Matty's Vegas vacation and spectator experience 10:03 Zane's take on the Las Vegas courts 13:50 What's the next inanimate object to blame? 15:11 Thomas' takeaways from the men's doubles finals 16:59 Zane wagging finger - gabe trying to kill him 18:30 Zane's slide strategy turned into bodybags 23:02 Are Gabe and Andrei Number 1? 27:07 Power ranking men's doubles teams 29:19 Where does Gabe rank as an individual? 32:30 The serve calls got a little out of control 38:46 You can eliminate any one of the three USAP serve rules 43:29 Matty actually gives his power rankings 46:32 Is this ALW's most dominant year? 49:37 Results from the APP Chicago Open 52:23 “Never a time I don't think about Nasty Nelsons” 54:36 Guess my DUPR 1:07:41 Reaction to the Selkirk Letters 1:19:23 Word association with Connor Pardoe on Building Pickleball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The ATP all-time ace leader and owner of ITF's fastest official serve, John Isner, is this week's special guest. John weighs on the evolution of the pickleball service rules and gives an inside look at how US tennis stars are approaching pickleball. Win on any court with Olukai footwear https://bit.ly/3VxEGoF Save $25 on Proton Paddles with code PRO-THEDINK exclusively at https://pickleballcentral.com/paddles/by-brand/proton-pickleball-paddles/ Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Match footage courtesy of  @MajorLeaguePickleball  Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 00:00 Introducing John Isner to the new serve rules 6:33 The legendary Isner tennis serve 9:19 Isner started playing 3 years ago 12:55 What were your original thoughts on pickleball? 17:33 You can be too tall for pickleball 22:29 Zane's theory on height 24:00 What's John's DUPR? 25:43 A look back at the tour wars 32:03 Any players waiting to enter the game 36:01 Signed on with Selkirk 37:30 Djokovic will take the court 40:30 Using the serve as a weapon 42:55 Are the tennis guys grinding in pickleball 47:44 Alcaraz is at the top of the list 50:12 Guess my DUPR 1:02:48 Questions from the boys 1:08:09 Zane's stance on the serve rules debate 1:14:18 The drop serve solves it all 1:16:34 Thomas' rebuttal 1:22:28 What's the real reason for the serve change? 1:27:33 Onix suing over thermoform patent 1:32:14 Results from PPA Bristol Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anna Bright is the special guest on an all-new episode of PicklePod. She shares a hot take on the ALW vs Agassi hypothetical match, weighs in on the bodybag hunting trend, and reveals her favorite pro player to watch. Plus we had you submit your game tape. Zane and Anna try to guess your DUPR and provide some heartfelt coaching in the process. Win on any court with Olukai footwear https://bit.ly/3VxEGoF Hydration that tastes great. Try the new pink lemonade flavor of Corvive Hydrate and use code PICKLE30 to save 30% https://corvive.com/products/hydrate Save $25 on Proton Paddles with code PRO-THEDINK exclusively at https://pickleballcentral.com/paddles/by-brand/proton-pickleball-paddles/ Watch's today episode on Youtube -> https://youtu.be/gcAT55fhM6g Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Match footage courtesy of  @MajorLeaguePickleball  Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Anna Bright returns to the PicklePod 3:38 The serve rules changed again this weekend 7:15 Chirpping at Mrs. Bright 9:16 The Peacock 12:29 Anna Bright is a multi sport athlete 15:23 The Girlies break the internet 19:24 Anna loves the Nasty Nelson 20:44 Jay Devilliers trying to tag everybody 30:50 ALW vs Sherbear or Agassi 36:20 AB's take on Hot Paddles 40:12 Less incentive to win 50:45 Let Gabe cook 55:26 When ‘good players' are unwilling to share the court 1:01:35 Everyone inflates their rating 1:05:20 We play ‘What's my DUPR?' 1:14:33 Anna is an MLP draft savant 1:17:41 How much of a factor is energy in MLP? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis Rettenmaier shares his unfiltered takes on the leaked 'letter' from Collin Johns, why Riley Newman is struggling in 2024, and why line calls won't get better until a solution is put in place. Travis and Zane start the groundwork on organizing a series of exhibition Battle of the Sexes matches including Anna Leigh Waters vs tennis legend Andre Agassi. Win on any court with Olukai footwear https://bit.ly/3VxEGoF Hydration that tastes great. Try the new pink lemonade flavor of Corvive Hydrate and use code PICKLE to save 30% https://corvive.com/products/hydrate It's not just the weapon, it's the warrior. Save 10% with code DINK at https://warstic.com/collections/pickleball Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Travis the bowler 5:25 Unfiltered with the “Rattlesnake” 7:40 Gabe suggested an option to replace CJ 11:38 A listener weighs in on the CJ ‘letter' 19:22 Should there be a fine for ‘tanking'? 23:19 Zane's match against Carolina 28:00 Julian Arnold's take on the letter 36:38 Battle of the sexes - who ya got? 40:57 Does Andre Agassi have a better shot? 47:28 What happened with Riley? 51:29 Powerful paddles don't work in anyone's hands 58:11 It's all about the game, not the players 1:06:40 Line calls are not going to get any better 1:11:13 Should you be allowed to challenge your own call? 1:15:23 Travis gives Thomas his flowers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zane and Hayden Patriquin had the most talked-about moment from MLP Salt Lake City. It was the first Nasty Nelson in MLP history and prompted an outburst that earned Patriquin an Orange Card. Plus a Facebook Group out to combat pickleball noise is actively working to prevent courts from being built. Zane and Thomas cover the claims of mental disorders, PTSD, and the end of a marriage. Win on any court with Olukai footwear https://bit.ly/3VxEGoF Hydration that tastes great. Try the new pink lemonade flavor of Corvive Hydrate and use code PICKLE to save 30% https://corvive.com/products/hydrate Watch the New Jersy 5s vs St. Louis Shock match here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LGRIKAP8hW8 Video credit:  @MajorLeaguePickleball  Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 00:00 MLP's first ever Nasty Nelson 6:45 Where to draw the line on chatter 13:00 When did you decide to pull the trigger? 15:10 what's next for the Shock 16:59 Are you in school right now? 20:00 Big H's partners the rest of the year 24:26 Are you better suited for MLP 28:18 Battle of the sexes: Ryan Sherry vs ALW 30:26 The origin of the Big H nickname 33:46 Ben Johns appears fatigued at MLP SLC 43:10 The Anti-Pickleball group on Facebook 51:33 Does a court increase or decrease the value of a home? 1:00:15 PWR announces their World Series from Dubai Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Zane the new GOAT of MLP? His New Jersey 5s team won the MLP Mid-season championship and are now favorites to win the season title in December. The guys weigh in on the controversial Challenger Level line call, the Johns Bros performance, and the paddle testing fiasco. Plus we play a new game, "Call someone who" and hear from some of our friends around the picklesphere. Win on any court with Olukai footwear https://bit.ly/3VxEGoF Recover faster. Play longer. Get 10% off devices to reduce your risk of injuries with code DINK10 at https://therabody.com Hydration that tastes great. Try the new pink lemonade flavor of Corvive Hydrate here: https://corvive.com/products/hydrate Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 00:00 Zane takes over as MLP GOAT 1:20 MLP Mid-Season Tournament Importance 6:25 Where does the money go? 8:59 Paddle testing abandoned at MLP Mid Season event 15:37 Stop policing paddles, start policing the ball 17:17 Zane runs into Thomas Jr. 19:03 The infamous line call and Rettenmaier reaction 27:15 Is there a difference in how you call lines in rec? 29:33 The Johns Bros struggle at Mid-Season Championship 39:45 Close Call Replay system proves its worth and Pablo is back 42:24 Zane crashed Anna Leigh's ‘coach' 45:23 Zane is all in on the team format 51:15 Do you have an advantage in MLP? 54:24 Zane plays the right with Mari Humberg 57:00 Call one person who… 1:03:40 Calling 'Big Pickle' 1:07:30 Call the funniest person in pickleball 1:13:07 Dissecting the Cup Dink with Greg Dow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

You're going to have a new favorite player after hearing from special guest Chris Haworth. Despite having wins over Ben Johns and Federico Staksrud he is humble and hungry in his pickleball journey. Haworth shares his road to becoming one of the best singles players in the game and what he is focusing on to become one of the best doubles players as well. Win on any court with Olukai footwear https://bit.ly/3VxEGoF Protect your eyes and save 20% with code DINK20 at https://tifosioptics.com The Pickleball Match Tracker helps track your progress and document your matches. Pick one up for yourself or the pickleball player in your life: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Pickleball/Trey-Sizemore/9781507223000?utm_source=partner_marketing&utm_medium=adams_collab&utm_campaign=&utm_content=DinkPodcastAd Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 00:00 Getting to know Chris 7:25 The Chris Haworth style 10:52 When did consider yourself a pro? 14:00 Dealing with a lack of pros in OKC and a lack of singles attention 18:03 Chris' pickleball coach 25:03 The breakout win over Ben at Nationals and signing with Babolat 30:33 When will we see a Haworth signature paddle? 32:46 Making the switch from tennis to pickleball 35:40 The “tall guy's” approach to pickleball 43:34 When ‘dead dinks' are most beneficial 47:20 What are you working on for doubles? 51:15 It's not a solved game, will scoring change? 58:14 The OCC run and Chris' biggest singles strategy 1:02:46 Will you continue to play on both tours? 1:05:22 Do pros keep an eye on DUPR? 1:11:03 The home run strategy is still incentivized Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when a former Challenger Level MVP enters the league mid-season? Jill Braverman shares the scramble prior to last week's Wavier Period and more. ➡️ Details emerge on the JOOLA vs USA Pickleball lawsuit ➡️ Jill shares the reason she decided to rejoin MLP ➡️ Will equipment sales follow the same pattern as golf? We've teamed up with Olukai to present the Aloha Showdown at Austin Pickleball Ranch. Register to play at https://www.bounce.game/event/d93fa7ea-b32d-49ed-a42a-50d5ac0e263f Win on any court with Olukai footwear https://bit.ly/3VxEGoF Stay hydrated with a name you can trust. Try CorVive's Pink Lemonade hydration mix and save 30% with code PICKLE Recover faster. Play longer. Get 10% off devices to reduce your risk of injuries with code DINK10 at https://therabody.com Protect your eyes and save 20% with code DINK20 at https://tifosioptics.com Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Going deep in the JOOLA vs USA Pickleball suit 4:46 What happened to Ronbus and Vatic? 7:55 What should USAP have done? 9:36 Liability insurance in place? 10:35 The Prolite Apex paddle 13:05 Explaining the violation of rule 2.E.6.F 15:19 Why is the GearBox Pro still allowed? 18:17 Zane taking paddles to lab 20:10 Is the advantage that severe? 23:30 The timing of UPA-A entering the certification space 30:06 Focusing paddle performance instead of materials 32:16 Return of the challenge and preventative fines 34:35 Can player contracts help protect against fines? 38:08 Multi-level classification could be offered 40:54 Are paddle sales demonstrably down? 46:47 The Fab 5 Debacle 54:22 Behind the scenes of the crazy waiver shuffle 52:35 Is it necessary to makes moves? 57:42 Challenger players level will move to free agency after this year 1:01:29 What does MLP feel like? 1:04:45 Why did you hold out? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The pickleball world could look a lot different in 2025. Rumors have begun to swirl about the paddle certification process under UPA. A change here could result in consumers paying even more for paddles. Thomas and Zane debate who won last week's MLP trade frenzy and share the details from a visit to Proton HQ. Catch the new episode here. We've teamed up with Olukai to present the Aloha Showdown at Austin Pickleball Ranch. Register to play at https://www.bounce.game/event/d93fa7ea-b32d-49ed-a42a-50d5ac0e263f Win on any court with Olukai footwear https://bit.ly/3VxEGoF Recover faster. Play longer. Get 10% off devices to reduce your risk of injuries with code DINK10 at https://therabody.com Protect your eyes and save 20% with code DINK20 at https://tifosioptics.com Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Intro 4:07 Thomas vistis Proton HQ in Phoenix 10:40 “Wait Thomas isn't bad” 12:30Alleged price of new UPA-A certification on Twitter 18:05 Raising the barrier of entry for paddle brands 25:57 Is the leak just a shock test? 32:16 JOOLA officially files suit 35:30 Hustlers sweep MLP D.C. 38:16 Utah trades waiver position 49:05 Vulcan version 2 in play 50:27 What would make for the best documentary? 54:38 Work for Zane Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lawsuits are popping up everywhere in the world of pickleball. We share the latest in a growing class action lawsuit. Ben Johns was caught on a hot mic at the PPA Sacramento Open, Zane shares his take. The guys take a look at the upcoming MLP Washington D.C. event and revisit the unlikely James Ignatowich sticker fault. We've teamed up with Olukai to present the Aloha Showdown at Austin Pickleball Ranch. Register to play at alohapickle.com Win on any court with Olukai footwear https://bit.ly/3VxEGoF Get away to the Pacific Northwest, book your Stay-and-Dink pickleball package at https://www.sunriverresort.com/sage-springs-spa-and-fitness/fitness-center/pickleball-1 Protect your eyes with Tifosi and save 20% with code DINK20 at tifosioptics.com Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 The class action lawsuit 6:30 Calling BS on the admin error 16:58 What's the etiquette for rec play and illegal paddles? 23:29 Hot mics at the PPA Sacramento Open 30:30 Other hot mic moments 35:59 Play up the drama 39:00 Extended broadcast on FOX 41:48 George Killebrew joins UPA from Dallas Mavericks 43:50 MLP Washington D.C. and the Seattle rebrand 49:27 LOTTO joins the Brooklyn Aces ownership group 52:15 Are Ben and Collin still number one? 58:18 Big H and the pickleball grinders 1:01:27 Where to move for top pickleball training? 1:04:08 Papa Jimmy's Sticker fault 1:08:44 Must win on your serve…again Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kyle Selinko co-owner of Boxcar Productions and Close Call Relay joins the pod to solve pickleball's line call headache. Selinko explains the technology he's employed to automate line calls and remove subjectivity. Zane and Thomas catch up after Zane's honeymoon and cover the Andrei Daescu suspension, JOOLA Gen 3 paddles getting de-listed, and the haters who watch Pros vs 5.0s. We've teamed up with Olukai to present the Aloha Showdown at Austin Pickleball Ranch. Register to play at alohapickle.com Win on any court with Olukai footwear https://olukai.com/collections/olukai-pickleball-shoes Right in time for Father's Day, it's the Pickleball Match Tracker. Get yours here: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Pickleball/Trey-Sizemore/9781507223000?utm_source=partner_marketing&utm_medium=adams_collab&utm_campaign=&utm_content=DinkPodcastAd Watch Thomas and Zane compete in the Pros vs 5.0s video here: https://youtu.be/Kgm9RYZEEaQ?si=-I4gwk3Ah3wx-_2r Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Introducing the Aloha Showdown 5:51 Mean tweets for Pros vs 5.0s 11:38 The infamous foreign substance 15:00 Andrei's response 21:09 Zane's Take on the punishment 27:45 What would you do if you're UPA? 35:00 Girlies photo shoot breaks the internet 39:24 JOOLA Gen 3 de-listed 49:38 Kyle's humble start streaming from a phone 54:40 The 240 frames per second revolution 1:01:20 What about the backcourts? 1:05:27 Using AI to make calls 1:08:49 Challenges that build the excitement 1:11:03 Proof from DUPR collegiate events 1:13:40 Any application for the NVZ? 1:17:47 Where broadcasts can improve? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zane is still on his honeymoon so we've compiled some of the best moments so far this year. Catch some of our favorites here and go back and listen to your favorite personalities in the game. Show Notes: 0:00 Intro 3:19 Collin Johns - Building Ben's backhand 12:22 Anna Leigh Waters - Insane fan stories 15:32 Riley Newman - The Pancake Grip 22:30 Riley Newman - DJ Selkirk's song choice 25:36 Zane's win over the Johns Bros 30:50 Lea Jansen - Unretiring from singles 34:48 Travis Rettenmaier - The demise of pickleball 44:45 Jaume Martinez Vich - Pickleball Sugar Mamas 46:03 Dekel Bar - Neutralizing a big serve 50:49 Jimmy Miller - Vulcan ball remake 56:14 Augie Ge - Unorthodox training 59:22 Dan Martinson - Zane's most offensive shot It's not just the weapon, it's the warrior. Save 10% at https://warstic.com/collections/pickleball with code: DINK Recover faster. Play Longer. Get 10% off devices that help reduce the risk of injuries with code DINK10 at https://www.therabody.com/ Save 20% on Tifosi sunglasses with code DINK20 at https://tifosioptics.com/ Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208e8a148b8ed4eb36889404fd9fa?r=use1 Subscribe to The Dink 3x weekly newsletter https://thedink.beehiiv.com/ Want to work in pickleball? Join The Dink Team. We're looking for a full-time social media manager. Send us an email at thedinkteam@heydink.com to apply. Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ To support Stop Alzheimers Now and submit your question for the pod visit: https://www.stopalzheimersnow.org/donate.html Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back in March, leaders from pickleball's top organizations gathered under one roof at the racquetX Conference to discuss the future of the game. The Dink's own Thomas Shields led a panel that included: Anne Worcester - Strategic advisor, MLP Bryce Morgan - President, PPA Tour Tom Webb - Chief Marketing Officer, APP Mike Nealy - Chief Executive Officer, USA Pickleball Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Create your own minor league event here: http://www.minorleaguehost.com/  Create your own The Dink Minor Leagues event here: https://forms.monday.com/forms/bec208... Subscribe to The Dink 3x weekly newsletter https://thedink.beehiiv.com/ Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/  Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' free e-newsletter at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/sig... -Follow us on IG @thedinkpickleball -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam ------------------ Show Notes: 0:00 Intros 2:33 Insights from professional tennis 6:50 Amateur participation growth 14:05 Challenges to build the next great pro sport 20:40 Running a startup organization in a startup industry 24:50 How is USA Pickleball adapting? 26:30 The growth of pickleball internationally 31:01 Creating a space for the youth to play 37:39 International regulation for grass roots growth 41:02 Is there room for two tours? 47:22 IS software development a focus? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What's your DUPR? Are you above or below the average player? DUPR CEO Tito Machado breaks down how the game is exploding among younger players and in more countries. Plus Zane and Thomas recap events from MLP Atlanta including illegal substances, players earning penalties, and a dust-up between The 5's and Hustlers. It's not just the weapon, it's the warrior. Save 10% at https://warstic.com/collections/pickleball with code: DINK Recover faster. Play Longer. Get 10% off devices that help reduce the risk of injuries with code DINK10 at https://www.therabody.com/ Save 20% on Tifosi sunglasses with code DINK20 at https://tifosioptics.com/ Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Subscribe to The Dink 3x weekly newsletter https://thedink.beehiiv.com/ Want to work in pickleball? Join The Dink Team. We're looking for a full-time social media manager. Send us an email at thedinkteam@heydink.com to apply. Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ To support Stop Alzheimers Now and submit your question for the pod visit: https://www.stopalzheimersnow.org/donate.html Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Big time college grad 5:13 Initial takeaway from MLP Atlanta 9:32 #Freethefreeze 14:11 A new serve rule for MLP 18:47 Tiered points system 23:34 An Illegal substance found on a paddle 26:03 Getting rowdy with the Hustlers 30:01 Dekel launches a ball onto Grandstand court 32:46 The $2.5 million dollar man 36:32 Tito Machado joins the pod 40:06 Fake profiles and the DUPR Police 42:02 What's the status? 44:13 The Great Divide 50:02 Where is pickleball growing internationally 53:04 Getting younger, younger, and younger 57:11 Get started in The Dink Minor Leagues 1:04:34 The fastest-growing groups 1:07:30 Should pros be allowed in college events 1:13:45 What's on the horizon? 1:18:08 5.0s used to be the standard Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Travis 'The Rattlesnake' Rettenmaier joins the pod fresh off a PPA Bronze with Zane Navratil. Travis shares the life-changing pickleball experience that led to him becoming a pickleball pro and MLP team owner. Travis is not shy to call out cheating at the pro ranks. He goes in on how new paddles have changed the identity of the game overnight. Recover faster. Play Longer. Get 10% off devices that help reduce the risk of injuries with code DINK10 at https://www.therabody.com/ Save 20% on Tifosi sunglasses with code DINK20 at https://tifosioptics.com/ Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Subscribe to The Dink 3x weekly newsletter https://thedink.beehiiv.com/ Want to work in pickleball? Join The Dink Team. We're looking for a full-time social media manager. Send us an email at thedinkteam@heydink.com to apply. Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ To support Stop Alzheimers Now and submit your question for the pod visit: https://www.stopalzheimersnow.org/donate.html Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Still a skeptic of the pro game 8:50 Showing the love for St. Pete 13:12 A new facility on the way, showers optional 15:47 Pickleball is for the misfits 20:19 Most prestigious tournament in pickle 22:29 Is Fed actually #1? 25:18 Ben Johns' 1 weakness 26:14 Alshon's tennis beef 30:30 The infamous 2 vs 1 challenge with NML 35:21 The Jackie Moon of pro pickleball 37:20 A norm that drives you crazy 40:59 Zane wants to change all the rules 43:36 Cheating is very, very prevalent 48:20 Are there personal vendettas? 51:08 You can buy skill, buy force, buy spin 57:38 How did it work in tennis? Spaghetti strings 1:03:55 Controversies from the Red Rock Open 1:10:10 Travis carried Zane in LA and the top shit talkers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lea Jansen joins the pod after her first singles title in nearly three years. We discuss paddle technology, her return to singles, drug testing, and the new wave of players in the women's game. A big change is imminent in the pro game. Find out what Lea would change to help the game keep up with other professional sports. Save 20% on Tifosi sunglasses with code DINK20 at https://tifosioptics.com/ Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Subscribe to The Dink 3x weekly newsletter https://thedink.beehiiv.com/ Want to work in pickleball? Join The Dink Team. We're looking for a full-time social media manager. Send us an email at thedinkteam@heydink.com to apply. Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ To support Stop Alzheimers Now and submit your question for the pod visit: https://www.stopalzheimersnow.org/donate.html Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Zane demands a trade 4:29 What you're hearing about JOOLA 6:28 Lea joins the pod 11:09 Why Lea retired from singles 16:10 Also retired from Twitter 20:50 Drug testing and line calls 25:10 Refs fandom an issue 32:09 Want a grievance system 36:46 Inconsistencies in paddle testing 42:22 Only a high-profile incident will create change 44:07 Should be able to capitalize on natural advantages 49:24 Bringing a stack of paddles to be tested 53:56 The upper limit of power 1:00:31 Devil's advocate on bad line calls 1:02:30 Power ranking beefs 1:07:50 Women's players that are on the rise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dan Martinson from PIKKL joins the pod to discuss the current state of paddle technology. Dan's material science background and passion for pickleball have led him to become a paddle expert. His new approach to maintaining paddle integrity could have a big impact on how players use and replace paddles. Find an event near you and register to play in The Dink Minor Leagues at https://officialminorleaguepb.com/ Subscribe to The Dink 3x weekly newsletter https://thedink.beehiiv.com/ Want to work in pickleball? Join The Dink Team. We're looking for a full-time social media manager. Send us an email at thedinkteam@heydink.com to apply. Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ To support Stop Alzheimers Now and submit your question for the pod visit: https://www.stopalzheimersnow.org/donate.html Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 A gift for Zane 3:42 The Dink Minor Leagues and major league valuations 9:45 Lea's revenge tour 12:14 Is Donald Young for real? 15:01 The rise of Fed and Tina Pisnik 18:59 M/W doubles recap 21:33 Dan joins the pod 24:01 Understanding the rules 28:38 Weight sidebar 32:26 Favoring a drive/drop hybrid 36:26 Paddle brand sources and protecting IP 40:29 Who is innovating in the paddle space 44:40 Generating more RPMs 51:04 Will paddle manufacturers set a standard? 53:14 Diving deep on grit details 56:08 Not in the final state of innovation 59:56 Carbon fiber could become obsolete 1:05:16 Customization options Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Augie Ge's unique entry into pickleball had an unfortunate beginning but became a blessing in disguise. After losing his biostatistics job, Ge went all-in and pro pickleball. His own brand of obscure drills and tennis/ping pong background have led him to a PPA Silver Medal, MLP Premier Level, and an Arizona Pickleball League title. Ready to wield something as bold as your backhand? Swing by Warstic's collection and let your paddle do the talking. https://warstic.com/collections/pickleball-paddles Subscribe to The Dink 3x weekly newsletter https://thedink.beehiiv.com/ Want to work in pickleball? Join The Dink Team. We're looking for a full-time social media manager. Send us an email at thedinkteam@heydink.com to apply. Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ To support Stop Alzheimers Now and submit your question for the pod visit: https://www.stopalzheimersnow.org/donate.html Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Introducing Augie Ge 4:24 Augie's blessing in disguise 9:18 Early pro days and Zane's wedding 13:10 The social bump after good results and salary talk 17:55 Credit to HeyShay 21:47 AZ Pickleball League influence 25:41 The Silver Medal run with Jaume in NC 27:51 Power ranking the lefties and 30:56 Unorthodox training methods and unique wall drills 34:04 Do you train grip changes? 38:11 Table tennis crossover and extra emphasis on the volleys 41:46 Augie's win over Zane 46:14 MLP Forecast for the DPC 49:20 Augie's college tennis experience and April schedule 54:10 ALW's dominance and 100th title 1:00:02 Do you watch when not playing? 1:01:40 Voicemails Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Newly appointed GM of the Texas Ranchers, Ryan Dawidjan, joins the pod. The guys grade and analyze all of the MLP teams following the draft. The Ranchers' first pick Christian Alshon has started a Twitter feud. The guys discuss how the back and forth shook out and a new possible on-court challenge between Alshon and James Blake. Ready to wield something as bold as your backhand? Swing by Warstic's collection and let your paddle do the talking. Want to work in pickleball? Join The Dink Team. We're looking for a full-time social media manager. Send us an email at thedinkteam@heydink.com to apply. Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ To support Stop Alzheimers Now and submit your question for the pod visit: https://www.stopalzheimersnow.org/donate.html Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Introducing Ryan Dawidjan 6:30 Ryan's draft experience 8:17 How do you prep in just 48 hours? 14:30 Factoring in growth potential 18:58 Seattle Pioneers 25:02 New Jersey 5's 30:01 Humberg and Howells 35:07 St. Louis Shock 37:04 Columbus Sliders 40:52 AZ Drive 45:39 NY Hustlers 52:51 Texas Ranchers 59:17 Christian Alshon's Twitter Feud 1:03:04 Alshon vs Blake hypothetical 1:09:30 DC Pickleball Team 1:10:20 LA Mad Drops 1:11:23 Orlando Squeeze and wedding talk 1:14:03 Dallas Pickleball Club 1:16:30 Utah Black Diamonds 1:18:44 Premier Level snubs Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Zane recaps his big weekend at the Austin Open and how the conditions were right for a Johns upset. Pickleball United CEO Pranav Kohli stops by to explain the Pickleball World Series. The new international tour is set to kick off in 2025 and offers some of the largest prize pools in pickleball history. Use code DINK10 to save 10% on the new CHUCK pickleball from GAMMA at http://gammasports.com/ Want to work in pickleball? Join The Dink Team. We're looking for a full-time social media manager. Send us an email at thedinkteam@heydink.com to apply. Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ To support Stop Alzheimers Now and submit your question for the pod visit: https://www.stopalzheimersnow.org/donate.html Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Zane's big weekend at the Rain Delay Open 5:20 Outlining the winning strategy 9:57 Upcoming pros vs 5.0s and a match vs the Klitchs 16:31 Collin's scoop in game 2, carry or not 19:27 Play to your strengths with a new partner 24:30 Andrei's hot streak and Christian's ceiling 28:35 The curse of the PicklePod 32:34 MLP events overlap some APP events 34:27 Is the gap closing on Ben Johns? 37:14 Iggy on the hot seat and is Andrei #2 40:27 Is the APP vs PPA gap overstated? & Newman vs Wright 42:52 Proton paddles pushing the limits 48:10 Thomas' rocketship paddle is on the way 51:04 New Vulcan balls in Austin 53:31 Listener questions 56:48 Secret patterns that the pros talk about 59:53 Introducing Pickleball World Series 1:04:45 What makes the World Series different 1:11:57 How is the Times Group involved? 1:15:50 Finals at MSG or the Sphere 1:19:38 What are you working on now? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What's it like to be the world's best player at just 17 years old? Anna Leigh and Leigh Waters join a very special edition of the PicklePod to give you a look behind the curtain. They share some insane fan stories including groups of fans tracking them down at the airport. Finally, Anna Leigh explains how to hit one of her most dangerous shots. Save 10% on the new Airbender paddle from GAMMA with code DINK10 at gammasports.com Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ To support Stop Alzheimers Now and submit your question for the pod visit: https://www.stopalzheimersnow.org/donate.html Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Anna Leigh's car collection 6:17 The pressure of being number 1 11:40 Partnership helps the mother-daughter relationship 16:00 ALW fandom reaches new heights 19:10 Tennis world recognizes the Waters 22:50 An average day of training 26:49 Adapting to paddle technology 32:15 Anna Leigh's new paddle 36:39 Is Leigh Waters back? 42:49 Net worth rumors and sponsorship deals 48:12 Lessons from lob-gate 53:35 The pressure to win and the Tyra Black match 1:02:34 Innovating with the Happy Gilmore Serve 1:04:31 Anna Leigh's two-handed backhand 1:08:10 RV life and ALW's ‘bodyguard' 1:13:20 Rapid fire questions Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jimmy Miller from the King of the Court podcast joins the pod to break down the merger aftermath. The MLP season can finally get underway but there are still a few loose ends to tie up. A couple players have opted out of salary reductions or have been bought out of their contracts. That means we could see some top talent choosing not to compete in PPA or MLP events this year. Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ To support Stop Alzheimers Now and submit your question for the pod visit: https://www.stopalzheimersnow.org/donate.html Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Intro 4:14 How Jimmy got on the inside 7:24 What's the goal for Jimmy? 9:26 Vulcan Ball changes incoming 14:28 Feeding balls to Susan and wearing a Rolex 17:12 Background on the Tour Wars 24:05 Players offered and accepted buy-outs 29:23 Clinics threatened for those that don't take cuts 35:15 How would ProXR feel about Riley not playing tournaments? 39:45 Johnson 5 in no man's land 42:55 MLP Draft planned for North Carolina - First event Miami? 49:26 Life as a GM 52:10 The Premier/Challenger split 55:48 Should every team be in the Premier Level? 1:05:50 Pros coming after Jimmy 1:19:15 The Gamemaker and new pickle sports 1:24:02 Jimmy needs a new scandal Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a surprising upset in Mesa, Collin Johns is back on the PicklePod. He explains how the new Vulcan ball is affecting play and how the new serve rule has helped remove egregious faults from the game. Collin recalls the few teams that have taken him and his brother Ben in the past three years and explains how those opponents were able to hand them an L. Learn what three drills CJ says are mandatory in an all-new episode. Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ To support Stop Alzheimers Now and submit your question for the pod visit: https://www.stopalzheimersnow.org/donate.html Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ 0:00 Colin Johns intro 3:38 A little word association 5:45 Breaking news 9:30 Early life at the Johns household 13:29 The famous nut shot 15:49 Collin's first match the eye protection 18:32 Bodybag or net cord? 21:14 The bookcase that made Ben's backhand 29:46 Frankensteining - Stealing shots from other players 33:16 The impact of the Vulcan ball 41:10 The loss the Gabe Tardio/Andrei Daescu 48:47 What's it take to beat the Johns bros 53:36 Only three drills allowed 59:27 Collin's role on the player council 1:08:14 The year of the drop serve 1:11:26 Consulting and myth-busting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jaume Martinez Vich is the guest on an all-new episode of the PicklePod. From humble origins in Spain, Jaume has gone from Rafa Nadal's hitting partner to a DII Tennis National Champion and is now a top 10 pro pickleball player. Learn more about Jaume's risky bet on himself to make it as a pickleball pro. He shares the details of how he fought for a performance-based contract and exceeded expectations. Pickleball's #1 subscription box is here https://www.thedink.shop/ To support Stop Alzheimers Now and submit your question for the pod visit: https://www.stopalzheimersnow.org/donate.html Leave your voicemail for the PicklePod at (512) 200 - 4299 ------------------ Like the ep? Do us a favor: subscribe to our channel and leave a review on Apple or Spotify -Subscribe to our 'all things pickleball' *free e-newsletter* at https://www.thedinkpickleball.com/signup/ -Follow us on IG *@thedinkpickleball* -Continue the convo in our private FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/thedi... -For everything else we do, visit https://linktr.ee/dinkfam -Read more about Zane and subscribe to his newsletter at https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ -Follow Zane on IG @zanenavratilpickleball ------------------ Show Notes 0:00 Geography pop quiz 3:30 The Road Warrior life 5:41 How did you get good in Hawaii? 8:53 The doubles game is already there 14:02 Improve while playing against weaker players 15:51 Jaume's revenue streams and support system 19:00 How Jaume funded a pro career and bet on himself 24:35 Initial offers vs Jaume performance-based plan 31:43 Mainland home would be the next step 33:28 Jaume's experience with an agent 37:09 The weight of social media on brand deals 46:11 Hitting partner with Rafa Nadal and Jaume's family 50:46 Hayden crashes the party 53:31 The Top 5 Players you don't want to see in a draw 58:30 Rank these three at the cat and mouse game Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices