As the fastest-growing sport in America, pickleball has swiftly woven itself into the fabric of leisure and luxury. What started as an unexpected phenomenon now fills courts nationwide, blending athleticism with a distinctive cultural allure. I’ll admit — I haven’t yet stepped on a pickleball court… and I kind of feel like I’m missing out. It’s not just a game anymore, it’s a place for networking and dealmaking; it’s started a conversation around intergenerational sport; it’s even cultivating its own 'core' aesthetic.
Intrigued by its meteoric rise and cross-generational appeal, I embarked on a journey into its origins. Turns out, Joel and Joan Pritchard brought the sport to life in 1965 — not that long ago in the grand scheme. And now, their legacy extends beyond invention, with their initials imprinted on an exclusive apparel brand crafted by former professional athletes and industry veterans, Darren and Steve Gable. Known simply as ‘J. Pritchard,’ this first-of-its-kind brand exudes...