The Future of Pickleball

by Selkirk Sport

In Selkirk TV's Original Series, The Future Of Pickleball, host Paul Olson sits down with all of the biggest names in pickleball to discuss their thoughts on the explosive growth of pickleball, their role in the pickleball world, and what they think the future of pickleball holds. If you're a die-hard pickleball fan, this truly is a can't miss show.

Podcast episodes

  • Future of Pickleball #73 - Pickleball Paddle Testing & Manufacturer Responsibility

    Future of Pickleball #73 - Pickleball Paddle Testing & Manufacturer Responsibility

    Welcome to Episode 73 of the Future of Pickleball show! In this episode, Paul Olson welcomes a panel of pickleball media leaders: The Dink Pickleball content writer Erik Tice, Forbes pickleball contributing writer Todd Boss, and The Pickleball Studio host Chris Olson. Together, they discuss the important role of media in maintaining integrity and transparency within the sport of pickleball, the impact of cheating, and the ethical responsibilities of both media and pickleball manufacturers. They also talk about different challenges in pickleball paddle testing and why it will be so important for a pickleball manufacturer trade association to standardize the pickleball industry.

  • Future of Pickleball #72 - What Will It Take To Make Pickleball an Olympic Sport?

    Future of Pickleball #72 - What Will It Take To Make Pickleball an Olympic Sport?

    Welcome to Episode 72 of The Future of Pickleball show. In this episode, Paul Olson welcomes Yui See Lau, Canada and China director of The Dink Minor League Pickleball and China director for DUPR, to talk about the growth of pickleball in China and Canada, exploring the cultural significance of the sport, the challenges faced in expanding its reach worldwide, and the role of organizations like the Chinese Tennis Association in promoting pickleball. He also shares the importance of a standard pickleball rating system, and how important it will be for collaboration between international entities to help pickleball be recognized as an Olympic-worthy spot.

  • Future of Pickleball #71 - Pickleball Evolution: Global Expansion of Pickleball Will Lead the Way

    Future of Pickleball #71 - Pickleball Evolution: Global Expansion of Pickleball Will Lead the Way

    Welcome to Episode 71 of The Future of Pickleball show. In this episode, Paul Olson welcomes David Johnson, a pioneer in pickleball. David founded Pickleball Central and is a tournament director, former board member of USA Pickleball, and has launched a number of other pickleball-related businesses. They discuss current trends in pickleball equipment, global expansion, and investment opportunities. David also shares his insights on current pickleball paddle standards, the challenges between different ratings programs, and how important it is to keep the spirit of the game of pickleball through it all. He also highlights the role of the International Association of Pickleball Facilities in supporting the growth of the sport around the world.

  • Future of Pickleball #70 - Manufacturer Integrity & the Future of Pickleball Paddle Technology

    Future of Pickleball #70 - Manufacturer Integrity & the Future of Pickleball Paddle Technology

    Welcome to Episode 70 of the Future of Pickleball Show. In this episode, Paul Olson welcomes Carl Schmitz, chief technology officer of USA Pickleball, to discuss the evolving landscape of pickleball paddle testing and standards in the sport of pickleball. Mr. Schmitz also shares his journey in pickleball, the importance of ASTM standards, the rapid technological advancements in pickleball equipment, and the important role of testing in maintaining the integrity of the sport. They also discuss the responsibility of pickleball paddle manufacturers, compliance, and integrity as well as safety concerns related to paddle speed and the establishment of a manufacturers association to unify standards and combat counterfeiting.

  • Future of Pickleball #69 - APP's Role in the Global Expansion of Pickleball

    Future of Pickleball #69 - APP's Role in the Global Expansion of Pickleball

    Welcome to Episode 69 of The Future of Pickleball podcast! In this episode, Paul Olson welcomes Byron Freso, director of international referee training & officiating at the Association of Pickleball Players (APP). Paul and Byron discuss Byron's sports background, when and why he transitioned to pickleball, and his role in refereeing and organizational sides of pickleball. Byron also shares his thoughts on the global expansion of pickleball, the future of pickleball in Asia, and why the global unification of pickleball will help grow the sport so it can be included in the Olympics.