Tampa Bay Pickleball Expansion: What began as a father’s quest to engage his sons in a unique business venture is rapidly transforming into a growing enterprise with aspirations to stretch across the country. Tampa Bay Pickleball, which debuted just over a year ago with six air-conditioned indoor courts at the Oldsmar Flea Market, is now eyeing expansion both in and out of state.
A Family Affair
Eric Klaus, founder of a financial group in Tampa, embarked on this venture with his sons, Ben and Kennedy. The decision to expand came in October, and Klaus reflects on the journey with evident enthusiasm. “We decided (to expand) in October,” Klaus noted. “This has been a fun little journey. We’re having fun meeting cool people and playing Shark Tank.” Despite the intrigue of the popular business reality TV show, Klaus and his sons have navigated their expansion independently and successfully.
A Flourishing Local Hub
Since opening in the spring of 2023, Tampa Bay Pickleball has quickly become a hub of activity. The facility boasts a variety of daily events, including leagues, clinics, camps, and tournaments. Anthony Capri serves as the general manager, while Andrew Giancola and his father Andy are key business partners. The business’s rapid growth is a testament to its success and the team’s effective management.
Expansion Plans Underway
The first major steps in the expansion plan include new sites in Greenville, South Carolina, and Savannah, Georgia. Both locations have already secured lease agreements, and buildouts are in progress. Klaus aims to have these new centers operational by early September. “I’m hoping to have both open by early September,” he stated. Beyond these initial sites, Klaus has his sights set on additional locations in Florida, including Wesley Chapel, Brandon, and South Tampa.
Klaus emphasized the importance of indoor, air-conditioned facilities, particularly in regions with high temperatures. “That’s extremely important,” he said. “It’s hot in Florida. It’s hot in South Carolina and Georgia.”
Future Aspirations
While the immediate focus is on expanding within the southeast, Klaus is open to broader ambitions. When asked about the potential for nationwide expansion, he responded, “We’ll deal with it as the time comes.”
Both of Klaus’s sons are deeply involved in the expansion efforts. Kennedy, a chemical engineering major at the University of Alabama, and Ben, a home-schooled senior set to graduate in December, have been instrumental in scouting new locations. Ben, in particular, enjoys the travel aspect of the business, stating, “I’m going to be all over the place, working on all of them.”
As Tampa Bay Pickleball continues to grow, its family-driven approach and strategic expansion plans suggest a bright future. The venture’s success so far is a promising sign of what’s to come in the world of indoor pickleball.
News in Brief: Tampa Bay Pickleball Expansion
Tampa Bay Pickleball, launched just over a year ago by Eric Klaus and his sons, is expanding rapidly. The venture, known for its six air-conditioned indoor courts at the Oldsmar Flea Market, is opening new sites in Greenville, SC, and Savannah, GA, by September.
Additional locations in Florida, including Wesley Chapel and Brandon, are also in the works. The expansion highlights the growing popularity of indoor pickleball and the family’s commitment to providing quality facilities.
Also Read: Dylan Frazier Is The Next Big Thing in Pro Pickleball
