In this episode of "20 x 44 Life," Brandon chats with Alex Wadsworth, a passionate pickleball enthusiast who shares his unique journey into the sport. Alex recounts how a local celebrity at the YMCA introduced him to pickleball, leading to his deep involvement in the community. He discusses building a pickleball court in his front yard, hosting tournaments, and offering free introductory lessons to newcomers. The conversation also dives into the upcoming Florida Pickleball Expo, highlighting its...
Oct 08, 2024•33 min•Season 1Ep. 11
In this quick yet exciting episode of 20x44 Life, we unveil the latest innovations and upcoming releases in our paddle lineup. From new paddle designs to unique colorways and additional accessories, there’s plenty to look forward to. Stay tuned as we dive into the details of our two new paddles: the 20x44 SH and the 20x44 EL Power. 20x44 SH (Short Handle): •Introduction of the short handle version of the EL paddle. •Description of the SH paddle’s features: same face as the EL, 5.25-inch handle, ...
Jul 23, 2024•4 min•Season 1Ep. 10
In this episode of the 20x44 Life pickleball podcast, we welcome special guest Tanner Wallace. Tanner shares his unique journey into the world of pickleball, from his initial skepticism to becoming an emerging pro. Learn about Tanner’s background, the challenges of balancing a full-time job with professional aspirations, and his insights on the future of pickleball. Tanner Wallace has been a part of the pickleball community for years and has played in numerous APP and PPA tournaments. With a bac...
Jul 20, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 9
On this episode of the 20x44 Dink Podcast we're diving into a hot-button issue that has once again stirred the pickleball community: paddle drama. This time, the spotlight is on the Joola Gen 3 paddles, a popular choice among both amateur and professional players. Key Topics Discussed: Introduction to Paddle Drama Overview of the recurring paddle controversies in pickleball. Introduction to the Joola Gen 3 paddles and their popularity. The Rise of Joola Gen 3 Paddles The quick adoption of these ...
May 30, 2024•5 min•Season 1Ep. 9
In this episode of 20x44 Life, we welcome Jim Bronson, a seasoned player who transitioned from racquetball to pickleball. Jim shares his journey, challenges, and the growth of the pickleball community in Toledo. Tune in for insights on the National Pickleball League (NPL), tips for new players, and the evolution of pickleball tournaments. Highlights: Introduction to Jim Bronson and his background in racquetball. Transition to pickleball and the differences between the two sports. Growth of the p...
May 18, 2024•43 min•Season 1Ep. 8
In this week's 20x44 Dink we explore a new chapter in pickleball rating systems, the UTR-P. This was recently announced by the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) and in this episode Brandon contrasts it with the DUPR system, and highlights how these developments could shape the future of pickleball. Read more about the UTR-P on our blog: https://www.20x44.net/post/revolutionizing-pickleball-understanding-utr-p-the-new-universal-rating-system Connect with Us: Subscribe to 20x44 Life: A Pickl...
May 04, 2024•4 min•Season 1Ep. 7
In this 20x44 Dink, we dive deep into the latest shifts in the pickleball landscape, focusing on the significant merger between the Major League Pickleball (MLP) and Professional Pickleball Association (PPA), and the establishment of DUPR as the new official rating system for both organizations. Whether you're a seasoned tournament player or just hitting the courts recreationally, understanding the impact of these changes is key. Download the DUPR app now and get your DUPR. Read more about DUPR ...
May 04, 2024•4 min•Season 1Ep. 6
Welcome back to another episode of 20x44 Life, the podcast that brings the pickleball community together, one episode at a time. In this installment, we're thrilled to have Suzanne Chuparkoff, the President of the Michigan Pickleball Club at the University of Michigan, to discuss the growing world of college pickleball. Highlights from this episode: Suzanne shares her personal journey into pickleball, from a family trip to Florida to watch the U.S. Open, to becoming deeply involved with the Mich...
Mar 26, 2024•41 min•Season 1Ep. 5
On this week's episode of 20x44 Life, we sit down with Simon Lovell - a professional coach, author, the creator of Picklepreneurs, and, a passionate pickleball player. Simon's story is one of resilience, transformation, and rediscovery through the lens of pickleball. Key Highlights: Simon's Journey : Delve into the gripping tale of Simon's battle with COVID-19 and Guillain-Barre syndrome, leading to severe physical and mental challenges. Discover how pickleball became the catalyst for his incred...
Mar 14, 2024•41 min•Season 1Ep. 4
Welcome to another exciting episode of The 20x44 Life Podcast, your dedicated source for all things pickleball. In this episode we take you on a journey through the ins and outs of pickleball, from the sport's addictive nature to the origins of our brand, 20x44. Join our host, Brandon, as he converses with Lee MJ Elias, co-owner of 20x44 and a veteran in the sports industry, on his transition from hockey to pickleball, and the vision behind our brand. Episode Highlights: Welcoming Lee Elias to t...
Mar 07, 2024•44 min•Season 1Ep. 3
Welcome to the first episode of the "20x44 Life Dink Podcast" with your host, Brandon Contratto. In our short and sweet format, perfect for your time dinking around the court, we dive into the hot button topics that have been stirring the pickleball world. In This Episode: Rule Changes in the PPA: We kick off by discussing the significant rule changes observed in the last two tournaments, focusing on the controversial serve changes at the pro level. These changes have sparked a wide range of rea...
Feb 21, 2024•4 min•Season 1Ep. 2
Welcome to the inaugural episode of "20x44 Life," a podcast where the worlds of pickleball and personal growth collide. Hosted by Brandon Contratto, a pro pickleball player with an unconventional journey from the ice rinks of professional hockey to the pickleball courts, this podcast aims to serve as the ultimate gathering spot for pickleball players everywhere. In this episode, Brandon shares his unique story, shedding light on his transition from hockey to pickleball and the lessons learned al...
Feb 20, 2024•6 min•Season 1Ep. 1
