Thirty-5 Capital, LLC, a family office and private equity firm focused on sports technology and innovation companies, created and launched United Pickleball Paddles (UPP), a subsidiary of its global pickleball investment sleeve, United Pickleball Properties, LLC.
The initial three paddle brands coming together under UPP are Paddletek, ProXR Pickleball and Boundless Pickleball.
“United Pickleball Properties’ mission is to advance the sport of pickleball, which includes our goal of developing the best paddles, apparel, and equipment for all players throughout the world, regardless of their skill and experience level,” said Ron Saslow, founder and managing partner of Thirty-5 Capital. “Combining multiple respected brands under one entity will allow us to provide unparalleled choices for our customers while allowing for great efficiencies for our manufacturing and distribution partners.”
Paddletek, based in Niles, MI, pioneered several design and engineering techniques to craft what it believes are the most advanced paddles in the sport.”
“Becoming part of United Pickleball Paddles significantly augments our efforts to expand globally,” said Curtis Smith, CEO of Paddletek. “Not only do they have a considerable amount of experience in manufacturing and logistics, but their help supporting our growth and innovation will ensure we remain at the forefront of the pickleball industry well into the future. My wife Nanette and I are thrilled to be part of this dynamic team.”
“Paddletek has been making the best paddles for me and my family for years,” said Anna Leigh Waters, the Professional Pickleball Association’s #1 ranked player globally. “I am so excited to see them become a part of UPP and build on the Paddletek legacy.”
ProXR Pickleball will continue to design and develop technical paddles for professional and advanced players.
“I love working with the R&D team at ProXR Pickleball as they are relentless in their pursuit of advancement,” said three-time Major League Pickleball Champion Zane Navratil. “It is no coincidence that more top professionals are using their paddles in competition.”
Boundless Pickleball adds customizable and NCAA-licensed products to the UPP family.
“Students, alumni, parents, and professors love showing school pride out on the courts and appreciate the high quality yet reasonable prices. When I go to the courts on campus, the longhorn paddles are everywhere,” according to Pro pickleball player and University of Texas Club Pickleball Founder Jack Munro.
“This venture will accelerate the success of all 3 of these unique and important brands. We are also committed to adding other strategically significant brands to the family—stay tuned…” Saslow concluded.
Thirty-5 Capital’s investment portfolio includes pro sports teams, leagues and tech-driven sports companies.
Image courtesy Paddletek
