Pickleball Kingdom’s Midwest Expansion: A group of pro athletes and business pros will bring Pickleball Kingdom to Utah, Kansas, and Missouri through a new multi-unit franchise deal. The team—Justen Glad, Andrew Brody, JJ Miller, and Calon Heindel—plans to open three state-of-the-art indoor pickleball clubs in the near future.
Bringing Pickleball Indoors to the Midwest
Pickleball Kingdom, the world’s largest indoor pickleball brand, is expanding again. The franchise has awarded rights to open new clubs in Utah, Kansas, and Missouri. The team behind the expansion includes Major League Soccer players Justen Glad and Andrew Brody, along with business consultants JJ Miller and Calon Heindel.
“We’re proud to welcome Justen, Andrew, JJ, and Calon to the Pickleball Kingdom family,” said Ace Rodrigues, Founder and CEO of Pickleball Kingdom.
“Their unique blend of professional athleticism and business acumen makes them an ideal team to bring our premier indoor pickleball experience to Utah, Kansas, and Missouri.” – (Rodrigues)
The group is now working to find the best locations in each state. Their goal is to build high-quality clubs that offer top-notch playing conditions and a welcoming space for all.
What the New Clubs Will Offer
Each new club will include:
Indoor Courts: Climate-controlled for year-round play.
Coaching and Clinics: For all skill levels.
Youth Programs: Helping young players grow.
Leagues and Tournaments: For friendly and competitive matches.
Community Events: Spaces for groups, companies, and families.
“We are truly passionate about pickleball and excited to bring the ultimate indoor pickleball experience to Utah and Kansas,” said Glad, Brody, Miller, and Heindel.
“Pickleball is growing so rapidly, and the demand has never been higher. Our goal is simple—create a welcoming environment where everyone can learn, play, and enjoy the game as much as we do. For us, pickleball is more than just a game. It promotes health, connection, and community. It might sound cheesy, but that’s really what we’re all about—offering a place for all ages and skill levels to thrive, and building something meaningful through an active lifestyle and shared experiences.” – (Glad, Brody, Miller, and Heindel)
A Strong Team with a Shared Vision
Glad and Brody are longtime teammates who played together for Real Salt Lake. Their friendship and teamwork from soccer are now being put to use in business. Miller and Heindel bring deep experience in franchising and operations, helping to guide the project.
“We’re proud to partner with such a dynamic and driven group,” said Rob Streett, President and Chief Global Officer of Pickleball Kingdom.
“Their leadership and vision will be instrumental in establishing Pickleball Kingdom clubs as centers for health, community, and fun in Utah, Kansas, and Missouri.” – (Streett)
What This Means for Local Communities
This expansion is a sign of pickleball’s rapid growth. By opening modern indoor clubs, the franchise is making it easier for people to play year-round. The new clubs will likely boost local interest in the sport, offer jobs, and create places where people of all ages can connect.
The team is expected to announce specific club locations soon. With a focus on health, fun, and community, these new venues could become key parts of each region’s active lifestyle scene.
News in Brief: Pickleball Kingdom’s Midwest Expansion
Pickleball Kingdom is expanding into Utah, Kansas, and Missouri with three new clubs led by pro athletes Justen Glad and Andrew Brody, along with JJ Miller and Calon Heindel. The indoor venues will offer year-round play, youth programs, and community events, helping grow the sport across the Midwest.
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