The Pickleball Opportunity: A Case Study to Evaluate the Market Demand and Feasibility of Opening a Private Pickleball Facility

Authors

• Dene Williamson, University of TampaFollow
• Janet Jones, Stephen F. Austin State UniversityFollow

Abstract

This case study explores the market demand and financial feasibility of opening a privately owned, indoor pickleball facility in Warrensburg, Missouri. The central character, Mr. Dink, returns to his rural hometown with the goal of building a community-centric recreational space centered around America’s fastest-growing sport—pickleball. Students are asked to evaluate the business opportunity through comprehensive market research, financial forecasting, and risk assessment. Drawing from comparative data provided by an established facility in Florida, the case challenges students to adapt proven strategies to a smaller, lower-cost market. The case provides a platform to practice feasibility analysis, pricing strategy, break-even modeling, marketing, and operational planning. It is particularly suited for courses in entrepreneurship, small business management, sport management, and business feasibility analysis.

Recommended Citation

Williamson, Dene and Jones, Janet (2026) "The Pickleball Opportunity: A Case Study to Evaluate the Market Demand and Feasibility of Opening a Private Pickleball Facility," Global Sport Business Journal: Vol. 11: Iss. 1, Article 20.
Available at: https://scholarworks.sfasu.edu/gsbj/vol11/iss1/20