The recent explosion in pickleball’s popularity belies the game’s surprisingly long history, having sprang to life some 59 years ago when three dads living on Bainbridge Island, a short ferry ride from Seattle, concocted the activity to stave off their kids’ summer boredom.

And while interest in the game simmered on a low burner for decades, it has since erupted into a full-fledged inferno, topping the annual list of fastest growing sports in the U.S. for the past three years.

According to a report this year by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, the sport experienced 51.8% growth from 2022 to 2023 and an incredible 223.5% surge in players since 2021. In just the last year, 10 million new players have jumped on the court for a game that’s a sort of hybrid between tennis and ping pong, played with a smooth, hard paddle and perforated plastic ball on a court about half the size used for tennis and a slightly lower net.

Pickleball’s horde of new devotees is also driving the need for more playing surfaces and while there were around 50,000 known courts at the end of 2023, according to USA Pickleball, industry watchers say the current inventory is at least 25,000 courts shy of demand.

And that’s where Ogden resident Jorge Barragan comes in.

Long wait led to a great idea

Barragan discovered the game in 2015 and quickly became a big fan and regular player. At the time, he was working in the software industry and finding time to play on weekends, evenings and even lunch breaks at work. Trying to sneak games in during the work day proved to be an increasingly challenging task, he said, as the wait times to get on a court got longer and longer.

“One day during the winter we were trying to get a lunch game in at the Farmington rec center,” Barragan recalled. “We got there and there were like 50 people waiting to get on a court. I thought, I really wouldn’t do this for anything else.”

Seeds sown by the frustration of the crowded courts would blossom into a business idea for Barragan, who is a first generation Mexican-American and the son of immigrants who embraced their own entrepreneurial spirit in opening a tortilla factory, which also formed his introduction to the work world.

Barragan partnered with his longtime friend and fellow pickleball fanatic Austin Wood to launch The Picklr, a business aiming to bring high-quality indoor pickleball facilities to players in Utah and across the country.

The early vision for Picklr was focused on filling the unmet need for courts by either building them from the ground up, like the multi-court facility in Kaysville or refurbishing existing buildings that met the right combination of square footage and layout to efficiently accommodate the 20-foot by 44-foot playing surfaces.

Thinking out of — and into — the box

Barragan and Wood discovered there’s a particular variety of commercial space that typically fits Picklr’s needs and can be found in thousands of communities across the country, thanks to the demise of some major retailers in the last few years — former big-box stores.

“In just about any community you can think of, there are big-box properties that have been sitting empty, sometimes for years,” Barragan said. “Former Bed, Bath and Beyond stores, old Staples, old Sears outlets … they are perfect for pickleball.”

While not all floor plans of vacated retailers hit the mark for reuse as pickleball facilities, many of them do and Barragan said the time and cost reductions for refurbishment versus new construction are significant.

“It’s a big-time savings over building from scratch which can take two years,” Barragan said. “Beside reducing construction time, it’s a lot cheaper, you can just lease the building and save the added big costs of HVAC, plumbing and other necessities. It just makes sense to go after big-box spaces.”

On top of the cost and efficiency advantages, Barragan said local governments are eager to partner with businesses that are interested in making investments in those dead and vacant spaces.

“Every city we’ve worked with are excited to do what they can to help reactivate these properties,” Barragan said. “Picklr renovations bring foot traffic, and new life, back to these old big-box locations.”

Discovering the magic of renovation helped propel Picklr’s growth and Barragan said he and his partner were in the process of developing seven Picklr outlets, mostly in Utah and one in Colorado, when they realized that to really accelerate Picklr’s expansion they might need to revamp their business model.

Turning to a franchising model, it turns out, was Picklr’s best track forward to meet the founders’ goal of building out a national presence.

Scaling the business

“Going the franchise route was the biggest decision we’ve made,” Barragan said. “Opening seven owner-operated locations was a lesson in understanding the challenges to scaling our business. From an operations standpoint, brand standpoint and capital standpoint it just made sense. And thinking about how to replicate myself and Austin and our passion to build this business, be a part of the community and grow pickleball.”

The pivot to a franchise approach didn’t relieve Picklr of its capital needs, however, and the company has been successful in drawing outside funding, some $16 million to date with a friends and family round followed by Series A and Series B efforts.

The backing has helped Picklr bring on a brand specialist and the company has added over 70 staff members to support its growing franchise operations, which, much like the sport itself, has been in turbo mode over the past year-and-a-half with 350 facilities in the pipeline.

For the love of the sport

Indiana resident and pickleballer Aaron Scholl is a veteran of the franchise business space, having worked as chief information officer for a national brand before joining the Picklr network as a regional developer. Scholl and a small group of investors, all Purdue University grads including former NFL superstar Drew Brees, own the Picklr development rights in three Midwestern states — Indiana, Ohio and Michigan.

Scholl said he and his family started playing pickleball during the pandemic and fell in love with the sport. When the hunt for a franchise opportunity began, Scholl said he and his partners were looking at a few opportunities related to pickleball court development but Picklr stood out among its competitors.

“Our interest was fueled by the sport itself and the lack of courts across the country, inside or out, to play on,” Scholl said. “Jorge and Austin got things going early, and actually had the concept before anyone really thought of it with pickleball dedicated facilities. Their updated brand look really sets Picklr apart. They’ve focused on creating a professional feel and professional experience. The sound baffles, lighting structures, Staples Center-like visuals. It’s a different, elevated feel.”

Scholl was also impressed by the network connections Picklr has established with national pickleball groups, relationships he noted set the table for bringing professional events to the facilities. Scholl and his partners expect to have 30 new Picklr locations in process by the end of the month and are scouting dozens of cities within their three-state territory for further expansion. Those plans include a ground-up build in Indianapolis that includes pro-level “show” courts and room for fans to watch top-tier players compete.

He also sees a huge upside potential for pickleball growth through sanctioning at the high school and college levels. Scholl noted that his group’s premier facility in Indianapolis shares the same home as the headquarters of the NCAA, a convergence that could raise awareness of the sport for the nation’s biggest college sports governing body.

“We’ve got 30 million people playing the sport,” Scholl said. “It’s gone far beyond fad status. We’re seeing high school state championship competitions and colleges giving away pickleball scholarships and a longer term goal of getting it into the Olympics. We love that whole junior aspect of the sport and the pipeline to professional play is only going to grow.”

That pipeline idea is baked into Picklr’s approach and embraced in the company’s motto, “Where Pros Are Made.” Those interested in trying out the game at a Picklr facility can get a 30-day pass for $30. Full adult memberships, available for $109 per month, give members unlimited court access at all Picklr facilities, unlimited league and competitive play, access to four pickleball clinics each month and four passes for guests.

During a Zoom interview, Barragan noted his own sunny countenance throughout the conversation about his company and the game that led to it.

“This is what my face looks like when I play,” Barragan said. “There’s always a smile. I love this game for the same reason everyone who plays it does. Because it’s fun.”

SEATTLE — A groundbreaking law that forces companies in Washington state to reduce their carbon emissions while raising billions of dollars for climate programs could be repealed by voters this fall, less than two years after it took effect.

The Climate Commitment Act, one of the most progressive climate policies ever passed by a state Legislature, is under fire from conservatives, who say it has ramped up energy and gas costs in Washington, which currently has the third-highest gas prices in the nation. The law aims to slash emissions to almost half of 1990 levels by the year 2030.

It requires businesses producing at least 25,000 metric tons (27,557 U.S. tons) of carbon dioxide, or the equivalent in other greenhouse gases including methane, to pay for the right to do so by buying “allowances.” One allowance equals 1 metric ton (1.1 U.S. tons) of greenhouse gas pollution and each year the number of allowances available for purchase drops, theoretically forcing companies to find ways to cut emissions.

Supporters of the policy say not only would a repeal not guarantee lower costs, but billions of dollars in state revenue for years to come are at stake. Many programs already are or will soon be funded by money from polluting companies, including projects on air quality, fish habitat, wildfire prevention and clean energy.

“The grand policy goal is the higher-level thing of fighting climate change, reducing carbon emission,” said Todd Donovan, a professor of political science at Western Washington University. “But you get down below 30,000 feet to the voters and it’s, ‘How does this effect my gas taxes?’”

The group behind the repeal effort, Let’s Go Washington, says the carbon pricing program has increased consumer gasoline costs by between 43 and 53 cents per gallon, citing the conservative think tank Washington Policy Center.

For months Let’s Go Washington, which is primarily bankrolled by hedge fund executive Brian Heywood, has held more than a dozen events at fuel stations to speak out against what it calls the “hidden gas tax.” Last month at a station in Vancouver, in southwestern Washington, the group lowered gas prices by $1 for two hours by subsidizing the difference to show what reduced prices would look like.

“It’s making everything more expensive, because everything you buy gets delivered to the store or to your door on a truck,” Let’s Go Washington spokesperson Hallie Balch said in a video about the initiative last month.

The average price at the pump for regular gas has gone as high as $5.13 per gallon since the auctions started in February 2023, though it has since fallen and stood at $4.05 this month, according to GasBuddy. The state’s historic high of $5.54 came several months before the auctions began.

Supporters of keeping carbon pricing have showcased the many programs it finances and could disappear if the repeal succeeds, including ones to help Native American tribes respond to climate change, for communities to build clean energy projects and for addressing air pollution.

Without the program, the Office of Financial Management estimates, $758 million would be lost in state revenue in the next fiscal year and $3.1 billion over the following four years. During this year’s legislative session, state lawmakers approved a budget through fiscal year 2025 with dozens of programs funded by carbon pricing revenue, with belated start dates and stipulations that would not take effect if that disappears.

Washington was the second state to launch this type of program, after California. It started out with aggressive emissions targets of 7% annual decreases, set to ease up from 2031 on. Repealing it would sink plans to link up Washington’s carbon market with others and could be a blow to its efforts to help other states launch similar programs.

A diverse coalition is behind the movement to keep carbon pricing, including most of the federally recognized tribes in Washington, some of its biggest tech giants, national environmental groups TV personality and science advocate Bill Nye of “Bill Nye the Science Guy” and even at least one fossil fuel company. BP America, which was approved to participate in the auctions, contributed more than $2 million to the campaign, saying it supported the measure when it was passed and wants it to stay intact.

The fuel giant’s support is likely due to the fact that keeping the policy in place would provide regulatory certainty that it can plan for, said Aseem Prakash, professor of political science and founding director of the University of Washington’s Center for Environmental Politics.

Supporters of the law have raised more than $16 million, far surpassing the $7 million that Let’s Go Washington has brought in to spend on this and six other initiatives.

The repeal side submitted more than 400,000 signatures to get Initiative 2117 on the November ballot.

Wyoming, known as “The Equality State” for being the first to grant women the right to vote and “The Cowboy State” for its rich cattle ranching history, boasts stunning landscapes and a sparse population. With Wyoming’s cold winters, hot summers, and damp springs, autumn’s crisp, dry air is ideal for exploring small towns that really come alive in fall. Peak fall foliage color typically hits western Wyoming in late September, southern Wyoming in early October and the rest of the state in mid-October. So, if you have missed a few of the great Wyoming fall festivals or leaf-peeping spots for 2024, use our guide to start making plans for autumn 2025!

Hulett

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of northeastern Wyoming, Hulett is a charming small town with a population of around 300 residents. Its close proximity to the iconic Devils Tower, America’s first national monument, makes it a popular destination for visitors seeking breathtaking natural beauty. The tower, which rises 850 feet above the ground, offers stunning panoramic views of the vibrant fall foliage that peaks in early to mid October. Registering for an ascent is a rewarding adventure if you have climbing experience, but you can also enjoy the scenery from the base. In late October, you can enjoy the sights and scents of the Fall Vendor Fair at Crook County Fairgrounds.

Pinedale

Pinedale serves as the gateway to the breathtaking Wind River Mountains, making it a prime destination for outdoor enthusiasts, especially during the fall season. This small town is a haven for hunters and anglers eager to pursue the region’s abundant wildlife, including rainbow and brown trout, as well as big game like deer and bighorn sheep. A highlight for visitors is the Museum of the Mountain Man, which remains open until late October and provides fascinating insights into the area’s rich history of hunting and fur trapping. For those seeking stunning autumn vistas, a drive to Squaretop Mountain in the Bridger-Teton National Forest offers unparalleled opportunities for leaf-peeping, particularly as the colors reach their peak in early October.

Teton Village

Located at the base of the renowned Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Teton Village becomes a breathtaking spectacle of fall colors as the leaves change. Visitors can embark on an aerial tram ride that provides a unique vantage point to witness the vibrant autumn canopy from above. The experience is complemented by the enchanting sounds of elk bugling, which can be heard during September and early October as these magnificent creatures call to one another. The village will once again host the excellent Jackson Hole Fall Arts Festival in mid-September 2025, and you can still catch fall-themed concerts from the Grand Teton Music Festival in late October 2024.

Buffalo

Buffalo, located at the foot of the majestic Bighorn Mountains, is steeped in history and charm. Known for its historic Occidental Hotel, founded in 1880, the town offers a glimpse into Wyoming’s rich past. Recently, Buffalo’s economy has shifted towards tourism, particularly during the fall months when visitors flock to the Cloud Peak Skyway Scenic Byway. This scenic route provides 10,000 foot-high views of the surrounding landscape’s vibrant autumn colors, which typically peak from early-to-mid October. During this time, be sure to explore Artisan Row, where you can discover the talents of local artists and enjoy the crisp, fresh air while immersing yourself in the town’s artistic community.

Laramie

Laramie is alive with energy in autumn, particularly during the University of Wyoming’s football season. Home game weekends turn the town into an even-more-bustling hub, with local shops and restaurants filled with enthusiastic fans. October also brings a variety of autumn festivities, including a Hay Art and Pumpkin Festival in mid-month and the Laramie Fall Fest a few days before Halloween. If you want to get in touch with nature, the nearby Vedauwoo Recreation Area is a must-visit. Its dramatic rock formations, accessed by multiple hiking trails, serve as a stunning backdrop for the autumn colors.

Dayton

With a population of fewer than 1,000 residents, Dayton is a quaint small town that lies near the stunning Tongue River Canyon. As October unfolds, the hiking trails in the canyon become a vibrant tapestry of colors, making it a perfect time for outdoor exploration. If you find yourself in the area in mid-October 2024 or in years to come, make sure to check out the Dayton Fall Festival. This lively event features vendors, rides, music, and a “zombie run,” providing a taste of the region’s creativity and community spirit. While wandering through Dayton, take in the crisp autumn air and the scenic river views that are particularly striking against the backdrop of colorful canyon walls.

Encampment

Once a thriving mining camp, Encampment has transformed into a quaint town that proudly showcases its rich history at the Grand Encampment Museum. This living history museum features recreated structures that tell the story of the area’s mining past and offer a glimpse into the lives of early settlers. A short drive west leads to Aspen Alley, a hidden gem renowned for its breathtaking aspen trees displaying vibrant colors, especially at the beginning of October. Additionally, for hunting enthusiasts, Carbon County is considered one of the best locations in Wyoming for big game hunting during the fall, making it a prime destination for outdoor activities.

Wyoming is an outdoor paradise no matter the season, but autumn casts a special spell over the state. The shine of the brilliant sunlight on colorful leaves, clear water, and towering rock formations creates an unforgettable viewing experience. Meanwhile, communities throughout the state celebrate the ideal weather and unmatched scenery with lively fall events. So, plan your autumn adventure in Wyoming and explore these charming small towns during this spectacular season.