Abstract: A manufacturing method for a sports paddle, wherein a reinforcing rod is inserted into the sports paddle, so that the reinforcing rod is located across the handle, throat, and head portions of the sports paddle. In some embodiments, a priming rod is used to create a cavity in the core of the sports paddle so that the reinforcing rod can be placed in the cavity. The manufacturing process results in a reinforced sports paddle that can withstand greater mechanical stress throughout the paddle.