St. Louis Shock Names Erik Lange Franchise's Head Coach

2025 MLP Cup Champions Sign Lange to Multi-Year Deal to Lead MLP’s Top Franchise

ST. LOUIS, MO – The St. Louis Shock, 2025 Major League Pickleball (“MLP”) Regular Season and 2025 MLP Cup Champions, today announced the signing of Erik Lange to a multi-year contract as the franchise's Head Coach. Lange first played for the Shock in 2023 during their debut season as an MLP’s expansion franchise and again returned to the team as a bench player during the Shock's historic 2025 season. The signing marks Lange’s transition into a leadership role after playing an integral part in the team's unprecedented 2025 success.

The appointment marks a significant milestone for the Shock organization as they formalize their coaching structure following the most dominant season in MLP history, which saw the team capture both the Regular Season Championship with a 24-1 record, and the coveted 2025 MLP Cup Championship.

"I couldn't be more excited to become Head Coach of the Shock – undoubtedly the leading franchise in MLP – and continue building off of our 2025 success," said Erik Lange, Head Coach of the St. Louis Shock. "Ownership's dedication to excellence combined with our fan-favorite collection of players make this the perfect place for me. Championships are the ultimate goal, and player development and personal growth will be cornerstones of this pursuit. Thank you to the Chaifetz family for their trust, partnership, and investment."

Lange brings a unique perspective to the role, having experienced the team's championship culture from within as a player in both 2023 and 2025. His deep understanding of the game, combined with his professional background in sports marketing and sales, positions him ideally to lead the Shock's continued pursuit of excellence.

"We are incredibly pleased to share that we have signed Erik Lange to a multi-year deal as Head Coach of the Shock," said Ross Chaifetz, Owner and General Manager of the St. Louis Shock. "Erik was key to our 2025 season, which was the most successful of any team in MLP history. Erik brings the strategy, organization and experience that our team demands in order to maintain its status as the premier MLP franchise."

"Since our founding of the St. Louis Shock as an expansion franchise in early 2023, we have continuously stated our goal of being MLP’s north star franchise. As the undisputed leader in nearly all on- and off-court categories, we have realized that goal… and more. Erik’s signing ensures the Shock will continue to compete for Championships year after year. We are pleased to welcome Erik Lange back to the Shock for the third time – this time as Head Coach”, Chaifetz added.

About Erik Lange

A University of Oregon graduate with a degree in Sports Marketing, Lange's journey to professional pickleball began in 2017 when he first picked up a paddle. His passion for the sport led him to transition from a sales professional role at HEAD Penn to becoming a sponsored professional player competing full-time on the tour.

Lange's competitive resume includes winning an MLP Championship as a player in 2023, along with multiple medals on both the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP) tours, USA Pickleball Nationals, and English Open.

Throughout his competitive career, Lange has partnered with many top players, gaining valuable experience and insights that will shape his coaching philosophy.

Known for his strategic approach to the game and his commitment to continuous improvement, Lange embodies the championship mentality that has become synonymous with the St. Louis Shock brand. His appointment signals the organization's commitment to sustained excellence and professional development both on and off the court.

Building on Championship Foundation

The Head Coach appointment represents the next phase in the Shock's organizational development as they prepare to defend their championships in the 2026 season. Lange will oversee all aspects of team preparation, including player development, strategic planning, and tournament preparation while working closely with ownership to maintain the Shock's position as MLP's premier franchise.

About the St. Louis Shock

The St. Louis Shock is a premier professional pickleball franchise competing in Major League Pickleball (MLP), crowned as both the 2025 MLP Regular Season Champions and 2025 MLP Cup Champions. Founded in 2023, the organization has quickly established itself as an industry innovator both on and off the court. Led by one of the youngest and most dynamic player rosters in the league, the Shock competes at the highest level of professional pickleball while developing the sport's next generation through its pioneering Minor League Pickleball program. With a commitment to community engagement, player development, and entertainment excellence, the Shock is redefining the pickleball experience for fans, players, and partners alike. For more information, visit www.stlshock.com or follow @STLShockMLP on social media.