What started as a rainy-day brainstorm between friends has now become one of the most talked-about destinations for pickleball enthusiasts.
It all began with three friends—Patty Paschke, Kim Waikem, and Lisa Beaufait—a few paddles, and a shared love for pickleball. One afternoon, as they rallied back and forth, the rain came pouring down, sending them for cover. As they sat around a table with drinks in hand and laughter in the air, they began to dream about a place where players of all levels could come together for great games, good times, and a welcoming atmosphere. On cocktail napkins, they sketched out their vision—a true players’ paradise.
Their idea gained momentum, and a year later, the journey took off when close friend RJ Vassas joined in the vision. They searched tirelessly for the right space, balancing height, size, and layout to create a facility that would serve both recreational and competitive players. After many months of patience and persistence, they found the perfect spot at 6320 Promway Ave, North Canton, Ohio—and Hot Shots Pickleball Club was born. A players’ paradise. A place where everyone is welcome!
Hot Shots PBC isn’t just about the game—it’s about the people. The founders’ original vision of connection and camaraderie still drives everything they do. As Lisa Beaufait puts it, “We’re not just founders, we’re players too. We know what makes a great pickleball experience, and we built that into every corner of Hot Shots.”
The building renovation and construction was completed by the award-winning Fred Olivieri Construction along with MRO Built. The club features nine professional-grade, climate-controlled courts built by the Vasco Group, 22-foot-high ceilings, protective wall padding, and state-of-the-art indirect lighting.
In a region best known for its football tradition, Hot Shots PBC is helping to put pickleball on the map. They host a range of events, from social mixers, open plays, competitive leagues, and tournaments. “Local and regional players alike have praised the facility for quality courts, a supportive scene, and a commitment to growing the sport,” says co-founder RJ Vassas.
Hot Shots PBC is more than just a facility—it’s a community built by players who understand what makes pickleball special. Featuring state-of-the-art courts, a comfortable lounge area, pro shop, and Hot Shots Bar & Grill, this club has become a local favorite that encourages both fun and competitive play. From rookies to pros, Hot Shots PBC is the destination for players of all levels.
Hot Shots Bar & Grill offers a delectable menu, a full bar, and a 12-tap Self-Pour Tap Wall. The club also features a special beer developed by the local Hoppin’ Frog Brewery. The Hot Shots Zesty Pickle Beer is a club favorite. “We wanted to create a place that felt like home to every player,” says co-founder Kim Waikem. “Whether you’re picking up a paddle for the first time or chasing your next tournament win, we wanted everyone to feel like a part of the club, play a game, and enjoy dinner with drinks.”
Hot Shots Event Center offers an amazing private room upstairs with mezzanines overlooking the club. This space is perfect for birthday parties, corporate events, and group celebrations where guests can enjoy pickleball, great food, full bar, and a self-serve tap wall. It’s the perfect spot to play, dine, and connect—all under one roof.
“With research from clubs across the country and thoughtful input from our community, we’ve blended our passion and personality to create a place we truly love. Every detail from lighting to layout has been intentionally designed to elevate the fun and inspire connection both on and off the court, says co-founder, Patty Paschke.
The Pro Shop brings a fresh, stylish take to pickleball gear and apparel. From high-performance paddles to sneakers built for speed and comfort, every piece is picked to help players play hard and look good doing it. The clothing lineup blends stylish sporty vibes with everyday wearability - perfect for heading from dinks to drinks. With cool gifts and exclusive Hot Shots merchandise, it’s the go-to spot for players who love the game and the lifestyle that comes with it.
As the club continues to grow, the team behind Hot Shots Pickleball Club remains focused on what matters most - community. From first time players discovering their passion to seasoned competitors perfecting their craft, every person who walks through the doors adds a new story to the club’s journey. What started as a simple rainy day idea has now become a thriving pickleball family, proof that sometimes the best dreams are built one rally at a time.
“We’re not just founders, we’re players too.We know what makes a great pickleball experience."
“Local and regional players alike have praised the facility for quality courts"
"We’ve blended our passion and personality to create a place we truly love."