Florida Panthers’ Pickleball Day: Pickleball is becoming a regular part of major sports events. In May 2025, it was included at the Miami Grand Prix, the Florida Panthers’ Pickleball Day, and the Miami Marlins’ baseball game. These teams are adding pickleball to connect with fans and promote active lifestyles.
Pickleball Court at Miami Grand Prix
The Miami Grand Prix Formula One race featured a temporary pickleball court at the Hard Rock Stadium. Marcus Fischer, director of sponsorships at Group 1001/Gainbridge, helped make it happen.
“We are one of the founding sponsors of Miami Grand Prix,” Marcus Fischer said, “and everything we do is to enhance the fan experience.”
Gainbridge had naming rights for the stadium’s North Campus, which included “Gainbridge Gardens.” That area had a bar and a pickleball court. Fans could use a speed gun to measure their serves and enjoy open play with a race ticket.
“It was right across the bridge from the paddock. The F1 Miami Pit Crew stopped by, and we also had pickleball pros Ryan Fu and Tyra Black. We also gave away towels and cooling fans to keep fans chill.” – (Fischer)
Marcus Fischer has played pickleball for three years with his daughters, who are 15, 13, 8, and 6 years old.
“I quickly realized that pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in the country. Tying the fastest-growing sport with the actual fastest sport seemed like a natural.” – (Fischer)
Florida Panthers’ Second Pickleball Day
On April 10, 2025, the Florida Panthers hosted their second Pickleball Day. Diadem Pickleball Complex from Coconut Creek, Florida, helped with the event. The complex has nine indoor courts.
“We were set up on the concourse on the way in to the arena. If you were walking into the stadium, you were at least exposed to us.” – (McLaughlin)
Kevin McLaughlin, a sponsorship manager at Diadem, said that pro players did an exhibition last year, but not this time.
“It seemed like the fans were more interested in getting on the court and hitting as opposed to watching the pros.” – (McLaughlin)
“This year, it was challenging because it rained, and that left limited play time.” – (McLaughlin)
A total of 175 fans bought ticket packages that included a special Florida Panthers paddle.
“The South Florida pickleball community is very active, and there’s a large segment of them who are Panthers fans.” – (McLaughlin)
Miami Marlins Add Pickleball to Game Day
The Miami Marlins have also joined the pickleball trend. They began hosting Pickleball Day in 2023. In the past, top female pickleball stars like Anna Leigh Waters and Bobbi Oshiro threw out the first pitch.
This year’s event was delayed due to construction, but Catherine Parenteau threw out the first pitch on Sunday. The Marlins are now planning their third Pickleball Day for May 18, 2025.
Sergio Gomez, a membership executive for the Marlins, started playing pickleball last year. He now leads the team’s pickleball efforts.
“This is part of our broader effort to embrace emerging sports and foster deeper community engagement. With Pickleball Day, the Marlins are promoting an active lifestyle while strengthening our ties with fans of all ages and backgrounds.” – (Sergio Gomez)
The May 18 event will have a court on the West Plaza outside LoanDepot Park. Activities start at 11:30 a.m. with open play. A pro exhibition is set for noon, and skills and drills will happen at 12:30 p.m. Fans must have a game ticket to join.
Jeff Conine, a former MLB player and racquetball star known as “Mr. Marlin,” took part in the first two Pickleball Days. It is not yet clear if he will return. The Fort, a large 43-court pickleball facility in Broward County, is helping the Marlins set up again. David Tabb, who is the Fort’s membership director, said he has enjoyed helping with the event.
“We get hundreds of people coming through our pickleball set-up. The community gets together. They play some pickleball. They watch a baseball game. It’s a ton of fun.” – (David Tabb)
Why This Matters
Pickleball is growing quickly and is now appearing at big sporting events. The Miami Grand Prix, the Florida Panthers, and the Miami Marlins all used pickleball to bring fans together. These events show how pickleball helps teams connect with local communities. More sports teams may try the same idea soon.
News in Brief: Florida Panthers’ Pickleball Day
Pickleball was featured at the Miami Grand Prix, Florida Panthers’ game on April 10, and the Miami Marlins’ Pickleball Day. These events included fan play, pro exhibitions, and giveaways. Organizers say pickleball brings people together and helps promote healthy fun at major sports venues.
ALSO READ: Race for 2,000 Dollars: Connecticut Gold Cup Pickleball Tournament Discloses Cash Prizes