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A New Era for St. Louis Shock, Launches MiLP Teams and Appoints John Kleinschmidt

A New Era for St. Louis Shock: The St. Louis Shock of Major League Pickleball (MLP) announced two significant developments: the formation of teams for the 2025 season of Minor League Pickleball (MiLP) and the appointment of John Kleinschmidt as the franchise’s Director of Talent and MiLP Operations. These initiatives aim to enhance the Shock’s presence at all levels of pickleball while fostering talent development and a championship culture.

New Teams for Emerging Players

The formation of multiple Shock MiLP teams makes the Shock the first MLP franchise to establish an official presence in Minor League Pickleball.

This initiative will launch with teams competing at various MiLP DUPR levels, providing emerging players the opportunity to refine their skills and compete under the Shock brand.

The program aims to expand to encompass all MiLP DUPR levels, creating a comprehensive network of players and fans united under the Shock banner. Andrew Haines, Chief Operating Officer of the St. Louis Shock, expressed his enthusiasm.

“This is a monumental step for the St. Louis Shock and the sport of pickleball. By committing to Minor League Pickleball, we’re not just investing in the future of our franchise but also in the future of pickleball itself. This initiative will spotlight the best emerging talent in the sport, create meaningful connections within the community, and provide opportunities for players at every level to grow their skills and affiliation with the Shock.” – (Andrew Haines)

Leadership and Vision

To oversee the new initiative, the Shock welcomed St. Louis native John Kleinschmidt. A Senior Pro Player and nationally recognized competitor, Kleinschmidt has won multiple gold medals at the Pickleball US Open.

He is also a certified IPTPA Level 2 instructor with over six years of coaching experience. Ross Chaifetz, Owner, General Manager, and Vice Chairman of the St. Louis Shock, stated,

“We are thrilled to announce this MiLP initiative—a first for MLP teams—and welcome John to the Shock family in this pivotal role. John’s experience as a Senior Pro player, instructor, and member of the St. Louis community makes him the ideal leader to oversee our Minor League Pickleball program and develop the best up-and-coming talents in the sport.” – (Ross Chaifetz)

As Director of Talent and MiLP Operations, Kleinschmidt will manage the Shock’s MiLP teams, providing:

  • Development Opportunities: Access to professional coaching, structured practices, and competitive tournaments for emerging players at all DUPR levels.
  • Community Engagement: Shock-hosted events, including clinics, exhibitions, instruction, and outreach programs.
  • Visibility & Branding: Representing the Shock brand in premium uniforms at events and competitions, integrating players into the franchise’s ecosystem.
  • Competition: Overseeing the performance of the Shock’s MiLP teams at the most competitive levels of the sport, from 3.0 up to 5.0+ DUPR level.

Kleinschmidt will also conduct regular Shock-branded clinics to help players enhance their skills. His first event, a 4-Hour Pickleball Session on Saturday, February 1st, will include two hours of DUPR Rating Matches and two hours of skill-building clinics.

Registration is available; space is limited to 16 participants. Kleinschmidt expressed his excitement about the role.

“This is an exciting time for pickleball, and I’m honored to join the St. Louis Shock. The Shock has set a standard of excellence both in our community and at the highest level of Major League Pickleball, and I’m eager to contribute to building talent, engaging the community, and driving the sport forward through initiatives like Minor League Pickleball and regular clinics.” – (Kleinschmidt)

Partnership with DUPR

Caroline Luelf, DUPR’s Director of Minor League Pickleball, emphasized the partnership’s importance.

“By aligning with a forward-thinking franchise like the Shock, we’re creating a clear pathway for players to advance their skills, enhance their DUPR ratings, and connect with the broader pickleball community. Together, we’re redefining how talent is discovered and developed in this sport.” – (Caroline Luelf)

Open tryouts for the inaugural MiLP teams will be announced soon, providing players the chance to compete under the Shock banner and advance their skills in a structured, competitive environment.

News in Brief: A New Era for St. Louis Shock

The St. Louis Shock is expanding into Minor League Pickleball, forming new teams and appointing John Kleinschmidt as Director of Talent. This initiative aims to promote player development and enhance the community’s involvement in pickleball.

ALSO READ: St. Louis Shock Hosts Successful Minor League Tryouts at The Pickleball Factory

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