Sponsoring Tourism & Community

The Caribbean Pickleball Federation (CPF) is based in Curacao. Our goal is to support inter-generational community engagement across the region. Pickleball has the potential to revolutionize our local and tourist community. Sambil Mall in Curacao and the CPF are partnered to change our communities in a profound and positive way.

Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in North America for the past four years. The Pickleball Federation of the Americas is planning to host their Americas Tournament in Curacao in 2025.

Our Brand Sponsorship Program:

Sponsoring our world-class new glow-in-the-dark pickleball facility offers brands a chance to align with a sport that embodies inclusivity and intergenerational play. By help build this sport in Curacao, we will be attracting tourism to the island as well as brings families and youth of all ages together.

We are looking for brands to create lasting connections with their target audiences while promoting positive values and community engagement.

Why Pickleball?

There is rapid adoption of the sport across the Americas. Brands that are proactive can ride this wave and capture the growing audience of Pickleballers. Why is this trend crucial to understand and harness?

  • Fastest Growing Sport: Pickleball has become as ubiquitous across Canada, US and is growing in the Caribbean. According to the Sports & Fitness Industry Association, the number of participants has increased by a staggering 39.3 percent over the past two years, with approximately 4.8 million players worldwide. With more people discovering and embracing the sport, sponsoring pickleball offers brands an opportunity to tap into a growing and engaged audience. By associating with a sport on the rise, brands can position themselves as forward-thinking and in touch with evolving interests.

  • Inclusivity: Pickleball fosters an inclusive environment where players of different ages, abilities, and fitness levels can participate together. This inclusivity aligns well with brands looking to promote diversity and equal opportunities. By sponsoring pickleball events, brands send a powerful message about diversity, inclusion and equity, supporting community unity and embracing individual differences.

  • Intergenerational Appeal: Pickleball's intergenerational appeal sets it apart from many other sports. Families can play together, with grandparents, parents, and children all enjoying the game simultaneously. This dynamic creates a unique bonding experience and can enhance brand perception by associating the brand with cherished family moments.

  • Tourist Appeal: Recognizing the sport's growing popularity, the travel industry has embraced pickleball, offering dedicated courts and programs at hotels, resorts, cruise ships, and even tour companies. Many hotels now consider pickleball a must-have amenity, boasting rooftop courts, novelty experiences like glow-in-the-dark pickleball, and tournaments for guests. Cruise lines have also added pickleball to their onboard activities, and some resorts offer complimentary play for their guests.

  • Low Barriers to Adoption: One of the most attractive features of pickleball is its ease of learning and playability. The rules are straightforward, and players can quickly pick up the basics. This simplicity attracts players of all ages and skill levels, from children as young as five years old to seniors well into their 80s.

  • Health and Wellness Promotion: Pickleball provides numerous health benefits, including cardiovascular exercise, improved hand-eye coordination, and enhanced balance. Sponsoring a sport that encourages physical activity and a healthier lifestyle aligns with brands that prioritize wellness and community well-being.

  • Local Community Engagement: Installing pickleball courts in community centers and local parks, is a valuable sponsorship opportunity for brands looking to engage with their local communities. Supporting pickleball events fosters positive brand recognition and goodwill among community members, strengthening brand loyalty.

  • Space and Cost-Effectiveness: Pickleball requires less space than traditional sports like tennis or basketball, making it suitable for community centers and parks with limited area. The smaller court size allows for multiple pickleball courts to be set up within a single space, maximizing usage and engagement. Additionally, compared to other sports, the equipment needed for pickleball, such as paddles and balls, is relatively affordable, making it accessible to a broader demographic. We have successfully implemented a court tile drop or court mat roll where pickleball court are installed on existing space such as unused tennis courts and winter activity space.

Media Plan for A Brand Pilot

Objective: The media plan aims to promote the brand's sponsorship of supporting a glow-in-the-dark pickleball courts at the Sambil Mall to generate excitement in this growing sport. We plan to expand the sponsorship to community centers and beach parks across the island. The Pickleball Federation of the Americas is planning to host their Americas Tournament in Curacao in 2025.

Step 1: Market Research and Identifying Target Communities

1.1. Conduct Market Research: Identify potential target communities that have a high interest in sports, recreational activities, and an existing or growing pickleball community.

1.2. Assess Local Infrastructure: Evaluate parks and community centers in these target areas to determine the feasibility and potential locations for installing pickleball courts.

1.3. Identify a launch-and-learn community cluster to pilot 10 courts.

Step 2: Establishing Local Partnerships

2.1. Collaborate with Parks and Recreation Departments: Reach out to local parks and recreation departments to discuss the idea of building pickleball courts in their facilities. Highlight the benefits of introducing an inclusive and cost-effective sport to their community.

2.2. Forge Sponsorship Agreements: Negotiate sponsorship agreements with relevant community partners to secure space for the courts in parks and community centers. Clearly outline the benefits of the sponsorship, including branding opportunities and mutual promotion.

Step 3: Designing the Courts and Branding

3.1. Customize Court Design: Work with a professional court designer to create customized pickleball court layouts that fit within a quarter of a standard tennis court's size. Ensure that the design adheres to the Pickleball Federation of the Americas standards and safety requirements.

3.2. Incorporate Branding: Strategically place the brand's logo and relevant messaging on the court surfaces. This will help create brand visibility during any matches and community events.

Step 4: Media Outreach and PR Campaign

4.1. Press Releases: Draft and distribute press releases to local media outlets, highlighting the brand's commitment to building pickleball courts in the community, and the positive impact it will have on local residents.

4.2. Media Interviews and Features: Arrange interviews with local newspapers, radio stations, and TV channels to share the brand's vision, the benefits of pickleball, and the importance of community engagement.

Step 5: Social Media and Digital Marketing

5.1. Social Media Campaigns: Launch targeted social media campaigns on platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to promote the brand's involvement in building pickleball courts. Use engaging visuals, videos, and testimonials from community members to create interest.

5.2. Local Influencers: Partner with local sports enthusiasts, pickleball players, and community influencers to share their experiences and excitement about the new courts.

Step 6: Community Engagement Events

6.1. Grand Opening Event: Organize a grand opening event for the new pickleball courts, inviting local residents, community leaders, and media representatives. The event should include demonstrations, mini-tournaments, and activities for all ages.

6.2. Pickleball Clinics and Workshops: Conduct introductory pickleball clinics and workshops to attract newcomers and encourage them to try the sport.

Step 7: Measure and Analyze Results of the Pilot Phase

7.1. Track Media Coverage: Monitor media outlets for mentions, interviews, and features related to the brand's sponsorship of the pickleball courts.

7.2. Social Media Metrics: Measure the engagement and reach of social media campaigns to assess the success of the online promotion.

7.3. Community Feedback: Gather feedback from community members, players, and local partners to understand the impact of the new pickleball courts and the brand's involvement.

7.4 Discuss phase two program expansion.

By implementing this media plan, the brand can effectively promote its sponsorship of building pickleball courts, connecting with local communities, and strengthening its image as a supporter of accessible and inclusive sports opportunities.

Media Budget for First Year Brand Pilot

  • 4000 NAF PER MONTH / YEAR COMMITMENT

  • RIGHT TO RENEW IN THE EIGHT MONTH

  • FULL BRANDING ON THE VENUE WALLS IN THE MALL

  • FULL BRANDING ON ALL PROMOTIONAL MATERIAL IN THE MALL

  • Engaging Youth and Reducing Street Activities

    One of the primary advantages of incorporating pickleball into the education system is its ability to captivate the interest of young individuals. By providing accessible and engaging sports facilities, we can offer an attractive alternative to street activities. Pickleball courts in schools will act as magnets, attracting youth and encouraging them to participate in physical activity, socialize, and channel their energy into a positive outlet. This, in turn, will reduce the involvement of young individuals in activities that may hinder their educational journey and personal development.

  • Community Engagement and Mentorship:

    Beyond school settings, pickleball can also serve as a platform for community engagement and mentorship programs. Local pickleball clubs and organizations can collaborate with schools to offer workshops, clinics, and tournaments. This collaborative approach will not only introduce more young individuals to the sport but also provide them with opportunities to interact with experienced players, coaches, and mentors. These connections can inspire and motivate youth, promoting positive role models and fostering a sense of belonging and personal growth.

  • Creating Accessible Pickleball Facilities

    To maximize the impact of pickleball on education and youth development, it is essential to ensure that as many school as possible have access to pickleball courts. Collaborative efforts between government bodies, educational institutions, and community organizations can help secure the necessary funding and resources for the construction of these facilities. Furthermore, partnerships with local businesses, sports organizations, and philanthropic foundations can provide ongoing support, including equipment, training, and maintenance of the courts.

  • Improving School Attendance and Performance

    The integration of pickleball into school curriculum has immense potential to boost attendance rates. By creating a school environment that prioritizes physical activity and fun, students will be more motivated to come to school regularly. The excitement and sense of community that pickleball fosters can significantly contribute to a positive school culture, reinforcing the importance of education and encouraging students to actively participate in their academic journey.

  • A Well-Rounded Education

    Engaging in regular physical activity, such as playing pickleball, has been proven to enhance cognitive functions, memory retention, and overall academic performance. By incorporating pickleball into physical education curricula or after-school programs, schools can provide students with a well-rounded education that promotes physical health, mental well-being, and academic success. The combination of physical activity and education not only improves focus and concentration but also fosters discipline, teamwork, and problem-solving skills among students.