Playing It Forward: Thriving as an Academy Volunteer

Before showing up at a Pickleball & Pizza event in March of 2024, this player had never picked up a paddle. Wearing canvas hightops and khaki pants, she went out on the courts with Tony Kemper and as they say, the rest is history.

Tony K. has changed lives by volunteering as a P&P tutor!

Having retired here from Colorado, this newcomer, who prefers to remain anonymous, was looking for a way to connect with people. Pickleball turned out to be the perfect solution, putting her in very good company. The camaraderie of the courts has become a source of great joy, and laughter comes easily during a game. "It feels like going out to recess," this enthusiastic player exclaims.

Players share a moment at the net

Now playing at a high level in several groups multiple times a week, this dedicated athlete has fallen neatly into a satisfying pattern: walk the dogs, write, and play pickleball. And yet something was missing — a way to give back.

That outlet came through the Southern Pickleball Academy. "My cup floweth over," she explained. "Volunteering gets me out of myself and allows me to be in service to others." Now a valued member of the Academy's volunteer team, this community-minded player has helped with tournaments and community events, and especially enjoys teaching pickleball with homeschoolers and Helping Hands youth.

Brothers share a court at an Intro to Pickleball class for homeschoolers

The mission of the Academy — Healthy Youth and Communities Through Pickleball — fits right into this player's philosophy of life, and the good vibes of the group are a natural draw. Of particular importance to her is the work the Academy does with children: getting them in their bodies, off their phones, and engaged in a healthy activity. This volunteer has witnessed the life-changing impact that pickleball has had on people, not just physically but also socially — including children introduced to the game who then pull others out onto the courts.

One evening not too long ago, while out playing, she noticed that on the far courts were three brothers from a previous teaching session. Not only were they playing, these boys were teaching their parents! It was a heart-warming sight — a reminder that this player's pickleball journey had come full circle: from being introduced to the game by a volunteer, to becoming a volunteer who spreads the love of the game to others. 

Brothers on the court with their parents

Most days, you can find this incredible person on the court, whether as a ferocious competitor or an engaging instructor. Playing it forward: it's how she thrives as a volunteer with the Southern Pickleball Academy. The only difference is she’s traded her canvas hightops in for a pair of Babolat pickleball shoes.

From canvas hightops to court-ready kicks — the evolution of a pickleball volunteer!

Are you looking for ways to "play it forward" as a volunteer with the Southern Pickleball Academy? Here's the link: https://www.southernpickleballacademy.org/volunteer .