We’re living in a cartoon. A man with the actual last name “Grubbs” started a pickleball company that reportedly scammed investors.

I guess with all the businesses cropping up around our sport, it was only a matter of time until something fishy went down. We have more on this below.

In happier news, The Pickleball Box continues to receive rave reviews:

Use code TheDinkNewsletter10 to get 10% off your entire order!

In This Issue:
 
😱 Scammer PB company
🏆 New APP champs
💡 Player perspective on pro merger

Onward.

APP Punta Gorda Open Results

Give Yourself a Fighting Chance

Last week we shared 5 of Eric Roddy’s 7 tips to help players level up. Two tips were left off the list but warrant their own discussion.

6. Miss High or Long

Miss high or long before missing in the net. In my opinion, missing in the net is one of the greatest mistakes committed in pickleball. If you clear the net, you at least force your opponent to decide if they need to hit the ball or not.

Missing in the net not only immediately ends the point, but it prevents your opponent from potentially making an error or giving you a chance to play defense.

7. Play with Different People

My favorite part about pickleball is the chance to spend time with friends and loved ones. While this is important (and a huge part of the sport), it is important to actively try to play with as many different players as you can.

As a 3.0 player, try to play with other 3.0s and occasionally play up with 3.5s if possible. This will allow you to identify the shots and skills you need to work on, and will also give you experience against different game styles.

Time to start paying attention to how many of your shots are ending up in the net and expand your player pool. Review the rest of the tips and find a drill to put them into practice here.

Healthy Hydration

Drinking enough water isn’t just about keeping your blood pumping or your body properly hydrated.

You literally need water to stay smart and strong on the court. If you’ve ever asked yourself if you’re drinking enough water, the answer is: probably not.

Click here to find the best water bottle for you. Their bottles keep fluids cool all day, whether you’re practicing with friends or competing for gold.

Cease and Desist Ordered Against ‘Fraud’ PB Company

Rodney Grubbs — with a name befitting his accused actions — founded the Indiana company All About Pickleball LLC. (aka “PICKLEBALL ROCKS") and reportedly scammed his investors.

The company specializes in selling equipment and apparel for the sport.

The Indiana Securities Division of the Secretary of State’s office issued a cease and desist order against Grubbs for an "alleged fraudulent investment scheme," according to a local Fox 59 report.

• “As part of the scheme, Grubbs is alleged to have encouraged investors to roll over the investment into a new one, thereby avoiding default and avoiding paying any of the investors their returns," the petition says.

• “In most securities transactions, the duty is on the seller of the security to make all the proper disclosures to the buyer regarding the investment. To do otherwise can lead to criminal or civil violations of Indiana Law.”

• “Grubbs allegedly told multiple investors that their slot was the last available one, thereby misrepresenting the size and true nature of the investment opportunity. Many of Grubbs’ investors have not been repaid.”

The cunning stupidity here truly boggles the mind. But what’s even more wild: as of right now, Grubbs’ LinkedIn account still proudly lists his reportedly-fraudulent company.

In fact, less than a week before the cease and desist was issued, Grubbs made a post asking for advice in selling a pickleball business:

Bet he wishes he sold it sooner. But this is just the tip of the iceberg. Read other fascinating details in the full article.

New Champions in Punta Gorda

The APP Tour crowned new champions Sunday in Punta Gorda. Chris Haworth, Milan Rane and Will Howells each earned their first APP gold medals over the weekend.

Haworth already has a win over Ben Johns on his resume. Now he can add APP champion to the list. Haworth frustrated Hunter Johnson throughout their finals match yesterday and walked away with the win.

Milan Rane teamed up with the always-steady Bobbi Oshiro to surprise the field with a win in women's doubles. In the finals, the duo topped the favorites Jorja Johnson and Parris Todd in two games 11-8, 12-10.

Jorja Johnson did manage to secure gold in her return to the APP. She and Yates Johnson brought home the mixed doubles title over Andrei Daescu and Megan Fudge.

Will Howells is the name to remember from Punta Gorda. The former Notre Dame tennis player partnered with CJ Klinger and made an impressive run to gold. Their championship match was cut short due to an injury sustained by Rob Nunnery.

• Judit Castillo and Megan Fudge had a nailbiter in the women's singles final. Castillo escaped with the win 15-13, 18-16

• Lee Whitwell kicked off her senior pro career with gold in women’s and mixed doubles

The APP Tour will have a Champions Cup event and Next Gen event in February before the pros are back in action March 6-10 in Sacramento.

Selkirk x Catherine Parenteau

Introducing the Selkirk Catherine Parenteau Signature VANGUARD Power Air Invikta pickleball paddle, designed for the dedicated pickleball enthusiast.

For power players who crave an edge, the VANGUARD Power Air paddle generates maximum spin for aggressive drives and features a larger sweet spot. This means difficult-to-return shots and an unexpected level of control. It's unquestionably the most aerodynamic of all Selkirk paddles, ideal for both singles and tennis players.

Elevate your game and dominate the court with the Selkirk Catherine Parenteau Signature VANGUARD Power Air Invikta pickleball paddle.

Who is Drawing the Short Straw?

The PPA - MLP merger still has not been finalized and the 'deadline' is closing quickly. With the first MLP event only weeks away Rob and Stone cover everything that needs to happen before players can hit the court.

Stoney was on the mic in Palm Springs and shares his experience at the PPA Masters. The guys explain the 2/3 rule that every amateur looking to improve should be following.

Watch it here or listen here.

Headlines & Quick Hits

• See the Moment This Group Breaks a Pickleball Guinness World Record

• New York Has an Expensive Pickleball Problem

• ICYMI: The Costly Mistake You Didn't Know You Were Making

Highlights

• Ladies, be careful out there 🙏

• Relatable 🤣

• “Tennis won’t be around in 5 years” 😱

• The rarely-seen Triple Paddle Throw

A review from the Dink Fam...