Revolutionizing Pickleball: The Orchard’s Vision for a New Era in the Sport

New Indoor Pickleball Venue Set to Revolutionize the Sport

Scottsdale, AZ — In a bold move to elevate the burgeoning sport of pickleball, Patrick Sullivan, CEO and co-founder of Jigsaw Health, and his sales director, Ashley Leroux, have launched an innovative indoor facility designed to enhance both player performance and spectator experience.

The duo’s journey began with a unique drink aimed at preventing cramps during long tournaments. Recognizing a gap in the market, they envisioned a space that would not only host two indoor pickleball courts but also transform one into a vibrant arena for professional matches every Tuesday night.

“We saw a real need to help bring people into the sport,” Leroux explained. “Many players enjoy the game casually but don’t follow the pros or watch broadcasts. We wanted to change that.”

Their vision includes a controlled environment where lighting and weather conditions are optimized for broadcasting, ensuring that fans can enjoy high-quality matches without interruptions. “This is a unique opportunity to build a venue that serves as both a pickleball court and a streaming studio,” Sullivan noted.

The couple signed a lease in November 2021 for a former document storage facility near their Jigsaw Health office. However, transforming the space into an assembly venue required navigating a complex permitting process with the city’s Planning and Zoning Commission. “Changing from a typical office space to an assembly has a lot of different requirements,” Sullivan said, highlighting the challenges of meeting safety regulations.

After months of planning and construction, The Orchard officially opened its doors on August 2, 2023. The inaugural event featured a thrilling two-on-two match with top players like Jesse Irvine and Irina Tereschenko. Fans were given the unique opportunity to choose the pairings, making the experience interactive and engaging.

The Orchard is set to host additional matches throughout the season, with the next event scheduled for August 9, featuring renowned players Ben Johns and Tyler Loong. Future matches are planned for October, promising an exciting lineup for pickleball enthusiasts.

Sullivan emphasized the unique experience of watching professional players up close. “These athletes are hitting the ball at 25 miles per hour, just 14 feet away from the audience. It’s a phenomenal experience that challenges the stereotype of pickleball being just a game for retirees.”

In addition to professional matches, The Orchard will also be available for private events, further expanding its role in the community.

As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, Sullivan and Leroux’s innovative approach could set a new standard for how the sport is experienced, both on and off the court. With their commitment to enhancing the viewing experience, they are poised to attract a new generation of fans to the exciting world of pickleball.