Return of the CEDIA Pickleball Gathering
Pickleball, a sport that blends elements of tennis and ping pong, has experienced continuous growth in popularity across America for the past four years. Not only does it offer a fun and engaging form of exercise, but it also fosters social connections, making it an ideal platform for networking and interaction.
Last year marked the initiation of the CEDIA Pickleball Meet-Up, a gathering that brought together over 50 key figures from the global home technology industry, including executives, press, and some of the top integrators. This event, held prior to the CEDIA show opening, provided an excellent opportunity for industry professionals to network, engage in friendly competition, and socialize before the Expo commenced. Elaborate details about the 2022 event can be found in "The Inaugural CEDIA 2024 Pickleball Meet-Up."
This year, organizers aim to increase participation, with a target of 100 attendees. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, September 2, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM (Mountain Time), providing attendees ample time to travel, attend meetings, and enjoy dinner after the pickleball sessions. The games will take place at the 3rd Shot Pickleball indoor venue in Wheatridge, approximately 20 minutes from the Denver Convention Center. To accommodate more players, the entire venue will be rented, offering 13 courts, along with other recreational activities such as cornhole, ping pong, and a full bar.
Pickleball is an accessible sport for those with backgrounds in racket or paddle sports like tennis, racquetball, and ping pong. It also caters to individuals of all ages and abilities, with a simple learning curve for beginners. Additionally, net proceeds from the event will be donated to support the CEDIA Foundation's workforce recruitment initiatives. Last year's event raised over $2000, and organizers hope to exceed that amount this year.
Participants can expect provided assets such as logo'd T-shirts, court time, balls, refreshments, and more. Participants are required to bring appropriate clothing and a small entry fee (to be determined). Paddles will be available at the venue for those who need them. If you are available to play on Tuesday, September 2, from 2:00 PM to 6:00 PM, please fill out the form available at Pickleball at CEDIA Expo.
As Gordon van Zuiden, last year's winner, said, "I can't think of a better way to kick off the best trade show of the year for our industry!" The organizers look forward to seeing you on the courts in Denver.
- This year, organizers plan to extend the fun and networking opportunities beyond pickleball, as they aim to include additional games like tennis and cornhole, catering to a wider range of sports enthusiasts.
- Following the success of last year's event, where over $2000 was raised for the CEDIA Foundation, participants can join a friendly competition of pickleball, tennis, or ping pong, with the hope of exceeding the previous amount donated to support workforce recruitment initiatives.
