In this episode, Dominique sits down with longtime friend and former pro tour competitor Justin Romero to explore what it takes to run the largest pickleball facility in the world. From managing 85 staff members and 65 courts to partnering with Collier County and rebranding one of the sport’s most iconic venues, Justin shares his blueprint for building community and sustainable growth in the booming world of pickleball.

He reveals how creative leadership, smart membership models, and consistent presence on the courts can transform a public facility into a thriving, world-class operation.

What You’ll Learn:

• How Justin transitioned from tennis director at Ocean Reef Club to leading the National Pickleball Center
  
• The key differences between managing private clubs and public facilities
  
• Creative ways to balance brand integrity with sponsorship requests
  
• Why visibility, approachability, and small daily gestures create lasting member loyalty
  
• How to structure memberships, lessons, and retail for long-term revenue growth
  
• The strategy behind new programs like the Battle of the Clubs and the US Open Pickleball Academy for juniors
  
• Justin’s advice for tennis pros, club managers, and investors entering the pickleball industry
  

Memorable Quote:

“If you do the membership right, the money follows. We’re in the people-pleasing business — and that starts with showing up.” — Justin Romero

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