In the latest episode of The Sweet Spot, hosts Josh Kerns and David Johnson sit down with Patrick Sullivan and Ashley Leroux, the visionary founders of The Orchard at Jigsaw Health in Scottsdale, Arizona. From pandemic pivots to boutique facility innovation, Patrick and Ashley share their journey building one of the most unique private pickleball venues in the country.
🎬 How The Orchard Came to Life
When public courts shut down during COVID-19, Patrick and Ashley saw an opportunity — and a need. Initially conceived as a private venue for pro exhibitions and live-streaming events, The Orchard officially opened in August 2022 after two years of design, permitting, and construction.
The concept?
✔️ Boutique stadium atmosphere
✔️ Two premium indoor courts
✔️ Seating for up to 150 fans
✔️ State-of-the-art broadcast capability
🏆 A Different Business Model: Private Events Over Open Play
Unlike many public pickleball clubs, The Orchard focuses on private corporate events rather than open play. Why?
“We realized two courts are perfect for corporate groups of 15 to 30 people… and it just didn’t pencil out to do memberships and try to compete for public play everyday.”
Highlights of their approach:
- 🎯 Exclusive rental model — no public drop-in play
- 🥂 Add-ons like bar service for events
- 💬 DIY catering — no kitchen headaches or food markup
- 🧠 Smart automation for off-hour rentals using tech like Eufy door systems
Result:
🔹 10–20 corporate events monthly
🔹 $10K–$18K in event revenue per month (and growing)
🔹 A Google review strategy yielding 125+ 5-star reviews and top SEO rankings in Scottsdale
💡 Lessons for Other Facility Operators
Whether you’re starting your own pickleball facility or looking to enhance operations, Patrick and Ashley offered plenty of actionable advice:
- Build the experience first: VIP atmosphere, excellent lighting, and thoughtful acoustic treatment elevate both player and fan experience.
- Marketing matters: Google reviews, strong SEO, and relationships with destination management companies (DMCs) drive corporate bookings.
- Scale staffing smartly: Automation technology (like remote access control) helps minimize operating expenses without sacrificing service.
- Flexibility is key: Offering open catering options and self-serve bar setups keeps customers happy and operations simple.
🔮 What’s Next? Firefly Coffee + Market
The Orchard is expanding…
Patrick and Ashley are opening Firefly Organic Coffee and Market next door — offering a cozy coffee shop vibe to complement their pickleball events.
☕ Coffee, smoothies, grab-and-go snacks
🛒 Jigsaw Health supplements
🛑 No full-service restaurant needed = lower overhead
Watch the full episode and learn more valuable advice from some of the best in the business!
