Wednesday Oct 15, 2025

PickleStrong: How Scott Mannetta Built a Movement Through Pickleball

In Episode 34 of the Smashing Plastic Podcast, Coach Tommy sits down with one of the true pioneers of the sport — Scott Mannetta, founder of PickleStrong and one of the earliest ambassadors for pickleball in Charleston, SC.

Scott shares his journey from helping grow pickleball in South Carolina to now teaching and mentoring players in Florida. He opens up about the challenges of bringing public courts to Mount Pleasant, the future of pickleball in schools and the NCAA, and what makes this sport such a powerful community-builder.

In this episode:

- How pickleball has evolved from its early grassroots days to today’s pro scene

- Why Scott believes pickleball will soon be an NCAA and Olympic sport

- The differences between Charleston and Naples pickleball communities

- The real economics behind pickleball facilities (and why “the juice isn’t worth the squeeze”)

- Scott’s new book series, beginning with “Jake’s First Game: A Pickle Strong Story”, inspired by his son Jake and the message of perseverance, kindness, and family

About Scott Mannetta:

Scott is the founder of Pickle Strong, a movement that promotes strength, community, and purpose in pickleball. His work continues to inspire players of all ages to live healthy, stay social, and give back through the sport they love.

* Check out Scott’s book: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/231137632-jake-s-first-game

* Learn more at https://www.picklestrong.com

* IG: https://www.instagram.com/picklestrong

* FB: https://www.facebook.com/picklestrong

* TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@picklestrong

🔥 Subscribe to the Smashing Plastic Podcast for more real conversations with the pioneers, coaches, and pros shaping the future of pickleball.

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