ABOUT US

Our story

When the founders of Avalon began playing pickleball, they discovered their shared passion for the sport on Avalon Drive. This was a small, almost hidden court in Scottsdale, AZ that was almost always empty, which is unheard of for pickleball courts in Arizona.

It was at this very court that they first experienced the exhiliration of the game, formed lasting friendships, and embraced the pickleball lifestyle.

Inspired by these memories made on Avalon Drive, they decided to name their brand "Avalon" as a tribute to the place that ignited their love for pickleball.

MEET OUR PROS

DANNY JENSEN

Daniel “Danny” Jensen, a former D1 soccer player at Ohio State, where he excelled, ranking top 10 in goals, assists, and points. Introduced to pickleball in Scottsdale, he fell in love with the game. Unlike soccer, pickleball is a sport that demands more personal responsibility which he appreciated. Jensen’s trained hard for over two years to become a top pro player, despite having no racquet sport background. Off the court, Jensen enjoys traveling, playing pool, staying active, and spending time with loved ones.

caden nemoff

Caden Nemoff, a native of San Francisco, California, is a multi-talented individual who has achieved great success in the sport of pickleball. He boasts high rankings in both doubles and singles on the pro tour, with his highest rating reaching 33 on the World Pickleball Rankings in 2022. In addition to his impressive record, Caden is a two-time national junior champion and has plans to compete on the APP and PPA (Professional Pickleball Association) tours in 2023.

MEET THE TEAM

DONOVAN HEYKOOP - CEO & Co-Founder

With 5 years of experience in the financial services industry and an MBA in Data Analytics, Donovan combines his analytical skills with a passion for pickleball, having actively played the sport for the past 3 years.  His strategic mindset and enthusiasm for the game drive his vision for creating high-performance, stylish pickleball apparel.

RYAN CORRAL - CREATIVE DIRECTOR & CO-FOUNDER

With a passion for creativity and aesthetics, Ryan is the visionary mind behind Avalon Pickleball. He has a passion for creating elevated clothing, fostering connections to build Avalon's partnerships, and curating one of a kind marketing and photoshoot concepts.

DALTON KATES - DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY OUTREACH

Dalton is heavily involved in the sports world and has found a passion for pickleball within the past few years. As the Director of Community Outreach, he is immersed with anyone and everyone that plays pickleball in Arizona. Dalton also conducts pickleball lessons and clinics.

ALEX GAROFALO - BUSINESS STRATEGIST

Launching his career early in tech startups, Alex has learned to thrive in rapidly changing product environments. Alex is deeply passionate about building businesses as well as pickleball. His mission is to take Avalon to the next level through creating cutting-edge pickleball clothing and distinctive and effective business strategies.

MAYA LORIMER - CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER

Maya has 5 years of experience in social media marketing & content creation. She has worked with a wide variety of CPG brands. Her mission is to help businesses elevate their social media presence and make their products stand out online while cultivating a loyal community through data-driven marketing strategies.