Today, Pickleheads released a new platform for pickleball players, announcing its recent fundraising. They are America’s fastest-growing sport and the first VC-backed tech startup.
Pickleheads allows pickleball players to connect with other players and find local courts. Pickleball, which is the fastest growing sport in America, will continue to grow in popularity and be one of America’s most popular sports. In 2022, more than 36 million Americans participated in pickleball at over 10,320 facilities throughout the US.
The startup quietly raised pre-seed funding last fall from Ardent Venture Partners, Overline, and Kevin Durant’s 35 Ventures.
Sean O’Brien, Managing Partner at Overline, said, “The pickleball market is massive—it’s the fastest-growing sport in the country, and no one has claimed a leadership role in the space. We think that Pickleheads has a unique opportunity to win here, and we are thrilled to support them on their journey.”
Pickleheads introduced a court finder in the summer of last year and quickly became the leading source for court information. The site is used by thousands of players every day to find nearby courts.
Today’s release of the startup’s scheduling tool and group administration tools makes it easier for pickleball organizers keep up with the ever-increasing demand. They can create a schedule for each court, collect signups, and even manage waitlists.
Pickleball is experiencing an unprecedented surge in interest, but there’s a glaring lack of technology in the space,” said Max Ade, CEO and co-founder of Pickleheads. “We’re building a digital home for pickleball players, starting with tools to find courts and organize play. Our recent funding will support our growth and aggressive technology roadmap.”
The technology-focused startup is based in Atlanta. Pickleheads’ roadmap includes flexible leagues, an instructor marketplace, and other tools that will enhance the court experience.
