NAPLES, Fla. — Chris Evon and Terri Graham, former colleagues at Wilson Sporting Goods—the one marketing manager and the other business director for indoor racquet sports—caught the pickleball craze early on, and rode it.

In 2014, they hatched a plan to throw what they describe as “the biggest pickleball party in the world.” To that end, they quit their jobs and together founded Spirit Promotions, LLC, in early 2015, quickly moving to organize and find sponsorship for what would become the Minto US Open Pickleball Championships in none other than Naples, Florida.

Florida has long laid claim as a top destination for pickleball players, with many citing Naples itself as “Pickleball Capital of the World.” The continuous sunshine and year-round outdoor life are certainly factors, but the investments that residents and community governance have made in pickleball is not to be overlooked. Take, for instance, East Naples Community Park, home of the Minto US Open Pickleball Championships, which features an astounding 64 pickleball courts. Nearby, Fleischmann Park and Veterans Community Park boast pickleball courts as well, not to mention the indoor courts at the Great Naples YMCA, and many more in private communities scattered throughout the Naples area.

This year plans are in motion for the sixth annual Minto US Open, taking place April 23-30, 2022. The event organizers put a strong emphasis on “open”—meaning, competition is open to pickleball players across the spectrum. If you love the sport, you can play!

Because of the overwhelming enthusiasm they were met with early on, a lottery system was set in place for Championship Registration in 2019. Although registration for players is closed at this point, you can still plan to view and cheer on both pro and amateur pickleball players at what has assuredly become “the biggest pickleball party in the world.” Besides the tournament itself, the event will offer clinics, a kids day, live music, food, drinks and more.

There is no fee to take part in the US Open experience and to watch players on all but one of the courts. But please note: games on the Zing Zang Championship Court do require tickets. Also, there is a nominal $5 parking fee for event visitors. For more information, and for schedule details, visit www.usopenpickleballchampionship.com.

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