John Gullo Inducted into National Pickleball Hall of Fame
John Gullo, a man from Ogden, has made history by being inducted into the National Pickleball Hall of Fame. Known as the ‘father of professional pickleball,’ Gullo has been credited with bringing the sport to Northern Utah and beyond.
Gullo’s passion for pickleball led him to pay for the first eight pickleball courts in Ogden, which are now known as the Gullo Pickleball Grotto. He also played a key role in the construction of the first courts in Brigham City, which were later used in the Tournament of Champions, a tournament he founded. This tournament was the first to offer substantial prize money for professional players.
Thanks to Gullo’s efforts, there are now over 360 pickleball courts in Northern Utah, showcasing the sport’s growing popularity in the region. Gullo’s dedication to the sport goes beyond just playing and promoting it – he also created the American Dream Foundation and donated 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 junior high and high schools in Ogden, as well as organizations like the Boys and Girls Club, YMCA, and Youth Impact. He even organized the Professional Pickleball Federation, bringing together over 300 professionals for the first-ever professional tour.
Gullo’s mantra of “play hard, work hard, and do something for your community” truly reflects his commitment to both the sport of pickleball and giving back to the community. His efforts have not only popularized pickleball in Utah but also expanded the game to Wyoming and Mexico, with a focus on teaching and engaging younger participants.
Gullo’s induction into the National Pickleball Hall of Fame is a well-deserved honor for his tireless dedication to the sport. He will be officially inducted at a ceremony in Mesa, AZ on Nov. 14, where his legacy in the world of pickleball will be celebrated and recognized.
