Meet the Maker: A Vetrepreneur's Journey to Pickleball Innovation

Meet Marc Montemerlo: Veteran, Innovator, and Pickleball Enthusiast

Hi, I’m Marc Montemerlo—a proud veteran, pickleball enthusiast, and the creator of the ballboy. If you’ve ever played pickleball in a crowded facility or struggled to keep your gear organized, you’re not alone. That’s why I set out to solve common problems for players everywhere. 

Pickleball has quickly become a cornerstone of my life. Whether I’m playing at the Ponte Vedra YMCA, enjoying a match at Jarboe Park, or cheering on friends at courts across the Jacksonville area, the camaraderie and energy of this sport never fail to inspire me.  Being part of this vibrant community has fueled my mission to create tools that make the game even more enjoyable. I’m grateful for every match, every laugh, and every connection I’ve made through pickleball.

Like many of you, I’ve experienced the small frustrations that come with the game: a pickleball flying over the fence, cluttered bags, or the scramble to find a ball mid-game. These moments take away from the fun and focus of pickleball.  That’s where the ballboy comes in. It’s a simple yet effective solution to keep your pickleballs accessible, reduce interruptions, and ensure your game runs smoothly. My goal was to design something that makes playing pickleball even better.

As a veteran, problem-solving and persistence are at the core of who I am. After my time in the military, I wanted to channel those skills into something meaningful and close to my heart.  That’s how Pickleball Pouch was born. Designed, engineered, and assembled in my home right here in Ponte Vedra, the ballboy reflects my dedication to quality, functionality, and bringing joy to the game I love.

Why the ballboy?

The ballboy isn’t just an accessory—it’s designed with you in mind. Here’s why players love it:

• Holds up to three pickleballs securely, so you’re always prepared.
• Clips easily to any bag or waistband, keeping your balls accessible.
• Eliminates clutter, helping you stay organized on and off the court.
• Saves time, so you can focus on what matters most—playing the game!

Join the Pickleball Pouch Community

I’d love to hear from you! Whether it’s your favorite local pickleball spot, a fun story from the court, or a picture of your ballboy in action, let’s connect.

📸 Tag us on Instagram: @pickleball.pouch
🌐 Visit our website: pickleballpouch.com

Thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s keep the game rolling—see you on the court!