2024/10/14

A Decade Of Dominance: Selkirk's Top Moments

The early aughts were defined by boybands, the rise of social media, Pottermania, and the release of the iPod, to name a few.

It also happens to be when Rob and Mike Barnes, founders of Selkirk Sport, first embarked on their entrepreneurial journey.

At the ages of 15 and 17, the brothers began a business in their father’s basement, hoping to make a few extra bucks. Little did they know their small business would evolve into a successful career as CEOs of a company now regarded as the top manufacturer of pickleball paddles.

As Selkirk Sport celebrates its 10-year anniversary, the family reflected on the journey that brought them to the forefront of the industry.

Celebrate 10 Years With Selkirk

In 2014, the pickleball industry was nascent, comprised mostly of mom-and-pop brands that sold wooden paddles. As the brothers began dreaming up the company, they aimed to create a brand with performance at the forefront.

“Believe it or not, we got a lot of industry pushback when we started,” Rob says. “People didn’t like that we were taking it seriously by pushing the boundaries of technology or promoting professionals. But we had a goal to turn pickleball into a respected sport.”

Top Selkirk Highlights

James Ignatowich’s ESPN glory: Making the Top 10

James Ignatowich made headlines when he landed the No. 1 spot on ESPN SportCenter’s Top 10 Plays.

With his back to the court, Ignatowich executed a jaw-dropping around-the-post shot, taking the already difficult move to new heights.

2015: The Epic shape launches

In 2015, Selkirk released the Epic pickleball paddle shape, which is still being produced today. The company also offered a variety of composite, aluminum, and hybrid pickleball paddles.

2020: Selkirk launches the VANGUARD series

After two years of research and development, the Selkirk VANGUARD Power Air addressed the need for power and spin. Nearly four years later, the VANGUARD Control launched for precision players, closely followed by the newest Selkirk paddle, the VANGUARD Pro.

Scottie Scheffler's Selkirk paddle of choice

As the No. 1 golfer in the world, Scottie Scheffler knows a thing or two about precision and control. These skills translate perfectly to pickleball, where he uses the VANGUARD Power Air to maintain his competitive edge.