The Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL) is thrilled to announce the addition of a dynamic new franchise, the Detroit-Windsor Drive.
This expansion into the vibrant border region signals a new era of growth for the league. Spearheading this team are co-owners Brandon Contratto and Larry Ollearis, founders of 20x44 Pickleball—a brand synonymous with high-quality equipment, community involvement, and player development, all offered at a fair price.
Meet the Owners
Brandon Contratto – Athlete, Coach, and Pickleball Ambassador
A former professional and collegiate hockey player, Brandon has seamlessly transferred his competitive spirit to the pickleball scene. Residing in West Bloomfield, Michigan, he has competed on esteemed stages such as:
- Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) events
- Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP) events
- International tournaments in Australia
- MLP Australia franchise competition
With a rich understanding of both the competitive and business sides of pickleball, Brandon is passionate about coaching and advancing the sport, making him an ideal leader for the Detroit-Windsor Drive in the CNPL.
Larry Ollearis – Business Leader and Pickleball Advocate
Larry Ollearis, a lifelong sports enthusiast and entrepreneur, infuses extensive business expertise and leadership skills into the CNPL through his co-ownership of 20x44 Pickleball and his role as the owner of All Black Hockey Sticks.
With over 40 years in the hockey world, Larry's experience spans developing significant hockey events and fundraisers across North America. Frequently found at hockey rinks in the US and Canada and on the pickleball courts in Brighton, MI, where he resides, Larry's skills in brand-building, operations, and player engagement will be pivotal in establishing the Drive as a formidable force within the CNPL.
About 20x44 Pickleball
Brandon and Larry have crafted 20x44 Pickleball to reflect innovation, quality, and accessibility, delivering high-performance equipment that elevates players' games at a fair price. This ethos makes 20x44 a respected name in the pickleball industry.
A New Era for Detroit-Windsor Pickleball
The Detroit-Windsor Drive stands as a significant milestone in the CNPL's growth, uniting two passionate sports communities across the border.
Under the spirited leadership of Brandon and Larry, the team promises to make a powerful impact in the league, bringing:
- High-energy competition
- Enriched community engagement
- Fresh opportunities for players and fans alike
Stay tuned as the Detroit-Windsor Drive prepares for its debut CNPL season—this marks just the beginning of something big and exciting!