Neil Friendenberg
NEIL FRIEDENBERG
Neil Friedenberg is one of the proud owners of Prolite Sports, a company with over 40 years of dedication to promoting and growing the sport of pickleball while crafting high-performance pickleball paddles. Neil took the helm of the company in 2011, purchasing it from his father, Mark “Yoda” Friedenberg, and relocating the business to Wisconsin. The nickname "Yoda" was given to Mark due to his unparalleled skill, wisdom, and contributions to the sport of pickleball. Mark was inducted into the Pickleball Hall of Fame in its inaugural year, a testament to his incredible achievements, including creating the USAPA governing body, writing instructional books, and winning hundreds of tournaments, including a National Championship. Pickleball runs through his veins, and he continues to be a driving force behind the sport's evolution.
Neil shares his father’s passion for the game, but also brings his own vibrant, fun-loving personality to the business. His enthusiasm for pickleball goes beyond just the game itself—he is deeply committed to helping players develop their skills and improve all aspects of their game, empowering them to become better athletes. Neil often speaks about the deeper impact of pickleball on people’s lives, emphasizing how the sport can promote physical and mental health, while fostering a strong sense of community. “Pickleball can shape someone’s life for the greater good. It adds years to your life, can save lives, and creates the ultimate social atmosphere,” he says, highlighting the game’s profound impact. In Neil’s eyes, pickleball offers more than just a fun activity—it’s a way to boost overall well-being and bring people together. When you play pickleball, you’re checking off benefits for your social, physical, and mental health. Check, check, and check!
Neil is a dedicated and accomplished athlete with a strong competitive spirit! His bronze medal at the US Open 5.0+ levels highlights his skill and commitment to his sport. His quote, "The competitive fire never leaves an athlete, no matter what sports background they came from," reflects a mindset that many athletes share—regardless of the sport, the desire to compete and excel remains a key part of their identity. Whether he is drawing from past experiences or continuing to refine his abilities, Neil's perseverance and passion for competition are evident in his ongoing success.
Neil continues to promote pickleball around the globe and continues to follow his passions....teaching and pickleball!
Neil is an instructor at the Suncoast Pickleball Camps in Montreat, NC - www.suncoastpickleball.com