COLUMBIA, MD — The owners of a popular pickleball business with roots in Howard County have sold the three original Maryland clubs to new investors who plan to expand the brand and potentially open seven additional locations across the state.
Dill Dinkers co-founders Will and Denise Richards have transferred ownership of their Columbia, North Bethesda and Rockville locations to John and Condit Lyon, who have been involved in the company's franchise development and growth.
The sale marks a new chapter for the company, which opened its first indoor pickleball club in Columbia in November 2022 and has since expanded to more than 33 locations nationwide.
The Lyons, who operate through their investment and development company, The Flying Lyon, also have secured development rights for the remaining available Dill Dinkers territory in Maryland. The agreement covers a population of more than 1 million people and could lead to seven additional clubs over the next decade, the Lyons said.
The couple initially became interested in Dill Dinkers while exploring business opportunities in the growing pickleball industry.
"After touring facilities and speaking with several franchisors, it became clear to us that we wanted to be a part of the Dill Dinkers community. What started as an interest in opening one franchise quickly grew into a much larger opportunity. We were excited to become regional developers and for John to join the Dill Dinkers corporate team as chief growth officer," the Lyons told Patch.
Their involvement with the company ultimately led them to purchase the three existing Maryland clubs, which will continue operating under the Dill Dinkers name.
"Our involvement with Dill Dinkers has given us the opportunity to see firsthand how much these clubs mean to their members, staff and surrounding communities. Columbia, North Bethesda and Rockville each have their own established community, and we saw an opportunity to build those foundations while continuing to invest in the player's experience," the Lyons said.
For the new owners, acquiring the clubs was about more than adding three locations to their business portfolio.
"For us, there are two sides to that answer, and both start with Dill Dinkers. First, we believe in the Dill Dinkers brand and what it represents: welcoming places where people of different ages and experience levels can come together, play pickleball and build connections. These clubs have always been part of the Dill Dinkers community and we want to continue building on the brand and experience that members already know and enjoy," they said.
From a business perspective, the Lyons told Patch they saw an opportunity to invest in three established Dill Dinkers clubs and support their continued growth.
"Each club has a foundation built by its team and players, and we're excited to provide resources, support our staff and explore thoughtful improvements that strengthen the experience at every location," the Lyons said.
The Lyons also share a personal interest in the sport, having taken up pickleball nearly two years ago.
"We've both been playing for just under two years and we're both very competitive. What has made the experience special is the community we've found through the game. One of our favorite memories is meeting our instructor, a senior pro, and developing a friendship with her and her husband," the Lyons said.
With development rights to additional territory, the Lyons see opportunities to bring the sport to more communities throughout the state.
"Maryland has large communities of people looking for ways to stay active, connect with others and find activities they can enjoy at different stages of life. Pickleball brings those things together: it's approachable for new players while offering plenty of opportunities for people who want to develop their skills and compete," the Lyons told Patch.
The couple said the company's approach to bringing together players of different ages and skill levels will remain central to its future expansion.
"That opportunity connects with the broader Dill Dinkers mission and vision of bringing people together through pickleball and creating welcoming communities around the sport. We see room to introduce more Marylanders to the game and help them find their place in it—from their first time on a court to organized play, instruction, and lasting friendships."
The Columbia, North Bethesda and Rockville locations will continue offering indoor pickleball courts, lessons, leagues, clinics, court reservations and other programming.
Related:
Howard County's 1st Indoor Pickleball Facility Will Open This Fall
Dill Dinkers Pickleball Complex To Double In Size This Summer In Howard County
Dill Dinkers Teams Up With MD Pickleball Pro Collin Johns
Columbia-Based Dill Dinkers Expanding Into Delaware
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