Utah Man Inducted into National Pickleball Hall of Fame
John Gullo, a man from Ogden, has been honored with induction into the National Pickleball Hall of Fame for his contributions to the sport in Northern Utah. Gullo, known as the ‘father of professional pickleball,’ played a pivotal role in bringing the sport to the region.
Gullo’s dedication to pickleball is evident through his efforts in funding the first eight pickleball courts in Ogden, known as the Gullo Pickleball Grotto, and assisting with the construction of courts in Brigham City. These courts were later used in the Tournament of Champions, a tournament founded by Gullo that offered substantial prize money for professional players.
With over 360 pickleball courts now in Northern Utah, Gullo’s impact on the sport is undeniable. He also established the American Dream Foundation, providing over $25,000 in scholarships for Junior events at the Tournament of Champions to encourage youth participation.
In addition to his contributions in Utah, Gullo funded paddles and nets in local schools and organizations, organized the Professional Pickleball Federation, and assisted in expanding the game to Wyoming and Mexico. Gullo’s dedication to the sport and his community is reflected in his mantra, “Play hard, work hard, and do something for your community.”
Gullo will be officially inducted into the National Pickleball Hall of Fame at a ceremony in Mesa, AZ on November 14. His legacy in the sport of pickleball and his commitment to youth participation and community involvement serve as an inspiration to players and enthusiasts worldwide.
