Today we’d like to introduce you to Kim DeLong.
Hi Kim, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Rick and I started playing Pickleball during COVID. We found it to be a great way to relax, a fun way to get exercise, and turned out to be an avenue for making new friends. Pickleball is such a social sport and there is a place for all skill/athletic levels.
After our first season of play, the weather turned cold and we were so disappointed that it wasn’t possible to play. A friend we met though Pickleball rented some private indoor courts and invited us to join. We were so excited to be playing and learning a whole new game indoors. We also met a whole new group of players. By our second winter, we knew there was a place for indoor pickleball in Dayton, Ohio. The idea and business plan started being born.
We traveled the country playing at different indoor facilities to learn what we liked, didn’t like, what worked and what didn’t. We researched franchise opportunities as well as investor opportunities but never found the right fit. Ultimately we decided that we should just do it. Around the same time as our decision, this property came for sale. The space and location fit perfectly.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The roads are in Ohio, so there were potholes along the way 🙂 We entertained partnering and franchise opportunities which didn’t work out. Those negotiations caused some delays for sure.
An additional hurdle involved changing the zoning of the property we wanted to buy so that we could see our vision come to reality. The city was welcoming and the city officials were very helpful but the process took a few months to get through.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
Dayton Metro Pickleball is a locally owned and operated facility. Our philosophy revolves around people engaging with other people and having fun. We have a gathering spot where people socialize with face-to-face interaction. The devices are down and people are going back to engaging with each other.
We have a fun, friendly, and inclusive “vibe” where people can be theirselves. It’s not just a game, it’s a community.
We specialize in providing people an experience.
How can people work with you, collaborate with you or support you?
We are seeking investors who share our vision, commitment to community, and love for Pickleball. Our search is in its infancy but the next two phases of expansion have been drawn. Our expansion includes 10 more indoor courts and 6 outdoor lighted courts.
Pricing:
- Founders membership available for a limited time – $89/mo and your price never increases
- VIP gives 24/7 access for only $79/mo
- Metro Package
- Morning Crew
- Twighlight Crew
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.daytonmetropickleball.com
- Instagram: @DaytonMetroPB
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/people/Dayton-Metro-Pickleball/61575887086721
