Franchisees Bring PickleRage to Southwest Ohio

PickleRage is expanding its fast-growing pickleball concept in the Midwest with a new 32,450-square-foot franchisee-owned club set to open in Centerville, Ohio, by late 2025.

New franchisees TJ and Kari Pantano are behind the new facility with nine indoor and two outdoor courts and meeting growing demand in a region that PickleRage notes has seen a 10.43% population increase since 2020 and continues to grow at nearly 2% annually.

“From the prime location of the site to the buzz around pickleball in the area, Centerville checked all the boxes,” PickleRage vice president of real estate and construction Chris Daiss said. “This location is a strong strategic fit, and the combination of indoor and outdoor courts makes it truly stand out. We’re excited to continue building vibrant pickleball communities across Ohio and the U.S.”

Beyond its pro-level CushionX courts and technology, PickleRage’s new location will offer leagues, lessons, clinics, social events and a pro shop for premium gear and apparel.

“We couldn’t be more excited to introduce PickleRage to the community,” TJ and Kari Pantano said. “With the sport booming across the country—and especially here in Ohio—we knew this was the perfect time and place to create a welcoming space for people to play, connect and have fun. We’re proud to be part of the PickleRage family and can’t wait to open the doors to our club.”

On a broader scale, PickleRage — backed by private equity firm GreekPeak Venture Partners, which invested in the brand last fall — plans to open more than 200 locations across the U.S. in the next two years and over 500 by 2029.

“We’re building a brand that’s redefining how people experience pickleball—and that starts with the right partners,” PickleRage vice president of franchise development Eric O’Connor said. “TJ and Kari are passionate about the sport and their community, and we’re confident they’ll create a dynamic, welcoming space in Centerville.”