More indoor courts are on their way as a growing pickleball club franchise is set to expand into the Sunshine City.

St. Pete residents, Kevin and Lisa Goettel, have teamed up to bring Dill Dinkers, a Columbia, Maryland-based chain of pickleball clubs, to Pinellas County.

Born out of necessity in 2022 by pickleball aficionados Will and Denise Richards—no, not that Denise Richards—Dill Dinkers was created to address issues like weather-related disruptions, long wait times, and mixed-use facilities unsuitable for pickleball.

The local husband-and-wife duo plans to open at least ten Dill Dinkers pickleball clubs throughout the county, from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs.

While specific locations in Pinellas County haven’t been finalized yet, the Goettels are eyeing St. Pete for their first facility.

Dill Dinkers already boasts five company-owned locations in Maryland and Virginia, each featuring between 5 to 19 courts.

The club offers a membership program, though non-members can also reserve a court, albeit with less advance notice and at twice the price.

Members enjoy perks such as free use of an automatic ball machine and discounts on leagues, lessons, tournaments, and the pro shop.

Membership pricing varies by location, but an individual membership typically costs between $330 to $475 annually, while a family membership (up to five members) ranges from $940 to $1,350 annually. There are also monthly and couples memberships available.

Court reservation costs also vary by location, running between $6.25 to $9 per hour for members and $12.50 to $18 per hour for non-members.

For those looking to perfect their game, Dill Dinkers offers private lessons for kids, individual adults, doubles partners, and groups of up to 16 people.

Kevin, reflecting on their decision to become Dill Dinkers franchisees, said, “After discovering pickleball three years ago, we fell in love with the sport and its vibrant community.” Kevin has extensive experience in law enforcement, real estate development, and management, while Lisa boasts over 35 years of experience in the human resources industry.

“The camaraderie and joy we experienced on the court were truly inspiring,” Kevin added. “This motivated us to bring Dill Dinkers to Pinellas County, as we envisioned creating a welcoming space where players of all ages and skill levels can come together, share their passion for the game, and forge lasting friendships.”

“We were particularly impressed by Dill Dinkers’ vision and commitment to fostering an inclusive environment, ensuring that everyone feels valued and supported as they improve their skills and enjoy the sport,” Kevin continued.

Each club features industry-leading paddles, nets, and other high-quality products through its national brand partnership with pickleball equipment brand JOOLA.

Dill Dinkers also partners nationally with pickleball professionals Collin Johns and Martina Kochli.

As regional developers for Pinellas County, the Goettels are seeking local franchise partners for each upcoming location. Ideal franchisees will be passionate about pickleball, embrace Dill Dinkers’ vision, and be dedicated to fostering a vibrant community atmosphere.

While the Goettels are set to introduce the first Dill Dinkers facilities in Pinellas County, another franchisee plans to open more locations along Florida’s Gulf Coast, including Sarasota and Bradenton.

Since launching its nationwide franchise program last September, Dill Dinkers has signed agreements with franchisees in Texas, Washington D.C., North Carolina, Connecticut, South Carolina, Arizona, Maryland, Delaware, Virginia, Georgia, Florida, and Pennsylvania, amounting to over 399 committed locations.

By the end of the year, Dill Dinkers expects to have at least 30 opened locations nationwide and more than 500 in development.

“As a former Domino’s multi-unit franchisee, it was crucial for us to build a strong network of support ahead of our franchising launch,” said Co-founder and CEO Will Richards. “Now, with 22 regional developers on board, we are thrilled to welcome experienced operators like Kevin and Lisa, who share our passion for spreading the joy of pickleball.”

“We look forward to seeing how the team extends our name in St. Petersburg and how other entrepreneurs can benefit from a premier indoor pickleball offering and a strong network of support,” Will added.

(Image credit: Dill Dinkers)