fbpx

Staying in the pickleball loop just got easier

Get the 5-minute newsletter over 48,000+ of your pickleball friends read every week.

By subscribing you agree to the Pickleball Union's Privacy Policy and Terms & Conditions

“Mini Pickleball” Aims To Sharpen Up Your Game Before Stepping Onto The Court!

Adam HowarthBy Updated:4 Mins Read
Ed Beazer, co-founder of Utah-based Bzer Sports at Club Pickleball USA in Sandy - image courtesy of Carter Williams, ksl
Ed Beazer, co-founder of Utah-based Bzer Sports at Club Pickleball USA in Sandy - image courtesy of Carter Williams, ksl

A Utah-based company has recently introduced “Mini Pickleball,” specifically crafted to cater to players of all skill levels with the aim of enhancing their game instantly. Designed to serve as a warm-up tool just before a match, the Mini Pickleball resembles a practice golf ball. It aims to strengthen player hand-eye coordination, consistency, and accuracy.

“I Got The Bug”

Ed Beazer recounts picking up pickleball roughly four years ago, just as the sport was gaining momentum across the nation and especially in Utah. “I got the bug;  started playing more and more,” recalls the man from Murray when speaking to KSL.com. “I gradually increased my involvement.”

And He’s not alone. As we reported recently, a report utilizing Google Trends data found that Utah was the leading state for pickleball. Municipalities are constructing new courts everywhere in the state as existing public facilities fill up rapidly.

As Beazer became more involved in the sport, he also felt an increasing urge to improve his skills. This led him to seek out a coach, ultimately connecting with Jake Ralphs, a professional pickleball player who began teaching the game in 2021.

A Eureka Moment

During one session approximately two years ago, Ralphs introduced a smaller ball compared to the conventional nearly 3-inch pickleball. They practiced with this diminutive version before reverting to the regulation ball, noticing a significant contrast—Beazer likened it to hitting a beach ball.

The concept of crafting a miniature pickleball training tool resonated instantly with Beazer. As an entrepreneur renowned for his involvement in bringing Starbucks to Utah, he scoured the market for similar products but found none that aligned with their vision.

After over a year of development, Beazer and Ralphs successfully launched their inaugural innovation under the banner of Bzer Sports: the “Warm-Up Ball,” measuring 1.75 inches in diameter. 

“This is the first mini pickleball in the pickleball industry, and we developed it right here in Utah,” Beazer proudly proclaimed at a launch event held at Club Pickleball USA in Sandy, Utah. 

“We’re one of the top states for pickleball, so we thought if we could get this developed and introduced in the Utah market and help the people of Utah get better, that’s what we wanted to do.”

“Sirius” By The Alan Parsons Project

The product unveiling featured a pickleball court setting accompanied by “Sirius” by The Alan Parsons Project – familiar to NBA fans. The event included a tutorial led by 11-time Professional Pickleball Association tour champion Callie Jo Smith. It featured prominent local pickleball enthusiasts such as former congressman Ben McAdams, ex-Utah Jazzman Ron Boone, and composer Kurt Bestor.

Callie Jo Smith (l) and former Utah congressman Ben McAdams play pickleball at Club Pickleball USA in Sandy - Photo by Carter Williams, KSL
Callie Jo Smith (l) and former Utah congressman Ben McAdams play pickleball at Club Pickleball USA in Sandy – Photo by Carter Williams, KSL

The development process for the ball spanned over a year, involving numerous prototypes tested monthly before arriving at the final iteration, explained Beazer. Crafted from rubber instead of the standard plastic, the ball’s weight is designed to enhance follow-through form.

Smith, also a coach, was introduced to the miniature ball during its development phase last year. Having recently tested the final product, she was keen to point out th ball’s advantages: 

“This end product has been fabulous,” she said. “I’ve used it the last couple of weeks, and I’ve been amazed with how it really works, how it’s changed my game and focus on the court.”

A Family-Owned Garage

Currently operating from a family-owned garage, Bzer Sports offers its three-pack sleeve through its website, with plans to expand sales through Amazon. Additionally, the company intends to introduce other products, such as a smaller paddle and a portable target, in the near future.

“There’s going to be more to come. We want Bzer Sports to specialize in training devices for pickleball players to improve their game,” he said. “We’re hoping that just becomes our niche in the industry.”

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

Share.
adam howarth

When I first started writing about pickleball, I hadn't appreciated the huge range of related features it encompasses: from building communities and players fighting against court closures to overcoming health challenges and raising money for charity, it's a whole new world! I love the stories about the smaller towns from the farthest-flung corners of the U.S. and how those residents have adopted pickleball to create friendships and community spirit.

Related Posts