By Alexandra Bonnet

Much like the underground music scene, pickleball existed on the fringes of mainstream sports. Those who stumbled upon it were immediately enamored by its simplicity, and appeal to their athletic side. “Like many people who play for the first time, I just loved it” shared Kim Jagd, co-owner of the Coachella Valley Scorpions’ professional pickleball team. “I have seen it change lives, create friendships and good health.”

Now, twelve years later, Jagd is implementing her skills and love for the sport as a teacher and coach of California’s first and only professional pickleball team. “I love seeing the positive vibes and emotions that pickleball elicits,” she happily expressed. “Pickleball is a great unifier!” Close to hitting its one-year mark, the team is making great strides in the National Pickleball League and making its mark in the country.

The latest addition to the team’s circle is Agua Caliente Casinos, holding the title of presenting sponsor and now pickleball enthusiasts! “When Kim Jagd and Rob Zwemmer came to us with this idea, I immediately recognized the passion they have for this sport and the community we love,” shared Agua Caliente Casinos’ VP of Marketing, Pearl Aguinaldo. “It was clear that this was something we had to be a part of.”

On December 9, 2024, the Coachella Valley Scorpions and Agua Caliente Casinos hosted a media day to bring awareness to the sport and future initiatives for this partnership. Guests picked up their paddles and were taught how to play by some of the team’s official players, given the chance to win prizes, and enjoyed a delicious breakfast spread put together by Agua Caliente Casino Cathedral City’s food and beverage team.

“This partnership means so much more than just a sponsorship,” shared Aguinaldo. “It’s about shared values, particularly our commitment to community and connection.” Meet and greets, pickleball clinics, and viewing parties to cheer on our team are just the beginning of what is yet to come.

Bringing together sports, community, and liberation of the mind, pickleball is more than just an activity, it is a way of life. The soul and drive that this sport brings out of people is unmatched and there is no doubt that the Coachella Valley Scorpions will continue to make great strides in the coming new year as the sport continues to touch the hearts of many!