Meet Our First Paddle Program Director: Caitlin Barry

Beth Eberhard
Jan 23
2 min read

Southern Pickleball Academy is thrilled to announce Caitlin Barry as the new Program Director for our First Paddle program. Caitlin brings a unique combination of youth development expertise, pickleball instruction experience, and proven leadership that makes her the ideal person to lead First Paddle's continued growth and impact.

Smiling woman with glasses in a car, wearing a black shirt. She has brown hair, creating a cheerful mood. Trees visible in the background. — *Caitlin Barry, First Paddle Program Director*

A Natural Fit for First Paddle's Mission

Caitlin's passion for using sports as a vehicle for character development aligns perfectly with First Paddle's core values. With over seven years as a YMCA Pickleball and Fitness Instructor, she has dedicated her career to creating inclusive, values-based environments where participants of all ages learn sportsmanship, communication, responsibility, and perseverance alongside physical skills.

"I am particularly drawn to First Paddle's commitment to character development through sport and its strong community partnerships," Caitlin shared. "I bring a collaborative leadership style, strong organizational skills, and a strong belief in the power of positive mentorship to support youth growth."

Woman in a blue "Warren Pickleball" shirt and cap laughing on an indoor court, holding a paddle. Bright window background. — "One of the things I love about playing Pickleball is how much I laugh on the courts!"

Proven Track Record in Community Programming

Caitlin's experience extends beyond the YMCA. Since 2019, she has served as a contracted pickleball program provider for Columbia County Parks and Recreation Department, delivering multi-site programming across three outdoor venues and one indoor gymnasium. This community-based approach mirrors First Paddle's model and demonstrates her ability to manage partnerships, coordinate logistics, and adapt programming to serve diverse populations.

At the YMCA, Caitlin has successfully designed and led pickleball clinics, leagues, camps, and instructional programs for youth, adults, and active older adults. She coordinates every aspect of these programs, from scheduling and enrollment to volunteer management and on-site logistics, ensuring each participant has a positive experience.

Leadership Forged Through Service

Before her work in pickleball instruction, Caitlin served 13 years in the United States Air Force in progressive leadership and program management roles. As a Command Language Program Manager, she oversaw a program that earned recognition as the Department of Defense Command Language Program of the Year. This experience gave her the accountability, coordination, and outcome-tracking skills essential for managing grant-funded and multi-site nonprofit programs such as First Paddle.

US military member in uniform smiling, with medals and insignia. American flag in background, blue backdrop. Professional and proud mood. — *Air Force Veteran*

Looking Ahead

Caitlin's appointment comes at an exciting time for First Paddle as we continue expanding our reach and deepening our impact in communities throughout the region. Her combination of technical pickleball knowledge, youth development experience, and operational excellence positions the program for sustainable growth while maintaining the quality and values that make First Paddle special.

We're excited to see how Caitlin's leadership will help more young people discover not just the sport of pickleball, but the life skills and character strengths that come with it.