Jesse "Building a Brand, Building Memories: The Family Story Behind Dink65"

Our family has always been deeply rooted in sports and staying active. As a father of six—five energetic boys and our youngest, a spirited little girl—I've always encouraged my children to find their passion in athletics. Growing up, I played just about every sport imaginable—football, baseball, wrestling, tennis, and golf. However, it was collegiate wrestling that truly shaped me, instilling in me the values of self-discipline and relentless hard work.

My wife was a huge soccer and tennis player in her day, competing for a state title and even being part of the Olympic Development Team in soccer before becoming a wife and mom. I believe she is a huge part of the passion that our family has for sports, as her dedication and love for competition have inspired all of us to stay active and engaged. 

My oldest, Lucas, gravitated towards basketball and football, thriving in the team environment and relishing the thrill of game-winning moments. Tanner followed in his footsteps, with a strong focus on football, where his size and hard-hitting style made him a formidable player. Ethan dabbled in basketball but found his true passion in the world of gaming, where he embraces competition in a different arena. Jaxon and Isaac excelled in soccer and band, giving them a great mix of teamwork and social engagement. And then there’s Brielle, our fearless youngest, who dives into everything—from soccer to dancing and even singing on stage. Though she may be the smallest, she has the biggest competitive spirit of them all. 

Despite our different interests, one thing unites us all—our family pickleball nights. These evenings are filled with laughter, friendly competition, and the joy of being together. Whether it’s a strategic dink at the net or a playful back-and-forth rally, pickleball has become our way of bonding and creating lasting memories. It’s this love for the game and the shared experiences it brings that inspired me to embark on a new business venture—Dink65.

Dink65 is more than just a pickleball paddle brand; it’s about fostering connections, encouraging fun competition, and sharing the joy of an active lifestyle. Just as our family comes together on the court, I want to help others experience the same excitement and camaraderie that pickleball brings. Through Dink65, I hope to inspire families, friends, and athletes of all levels to get out, play, and enjoy those priceless moments that sports provide.

With Dink65, we’re not just creating paddles—we’re building a community that values family, competition, and the simple joy of the game. And for us, that’s what it’s all about.