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Beginner Pickleball, Benefits of Pickleball, Pickleball Ethics, Pickleball groups, Rules of Pickleball

Creating an Inclusive Pickleball Community: The Power of Groups

Simple, practical, & instant!

The Power of Groups

Are you a pickleball enthusiast looking to connect with fellow players, share your passion, and organize matches? If so, you’re in luck! Pickleball groups are the heart and soul of this vibrant sports community. In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of pickleball groups, their significance, and how you can create an inclusive and thriving community right within your smartphone.

The Glue that Binds Us: Pickleball Groups

Pickleball is more than just a sport; it’s a social phenomenon that brings players together. Almost every pickleball player I know is part of a group, whether it’s through social media platforms like WhatsApp or Meta (formerly known as Facebook), email chains, or emerging pickleball-specific apps. These groups are like tribes, uniting individuals with a shared goal: to play as much pickleball as possible!

Diverse Bonds and Common Goals

Groups form for a variety of reasons.

While most groups are geographically focused, catering to specific courts or skill levels, they also cater to a wide spectrum of players. From skill-level-based groups to LGBTQ+ or other affinity groups, there’s a place for everyone. For instance, “Rainbow Pickleball” is a local group that showcases how pickleball can foster a passionate and fun community among diverse individuals. These groups offer a safe haven for players to connect, learn, and grow.

Strong Foundations for a Flourishing Community

Every great pickleball group begins with a solid foundation. This means having at least two administrators who can manage the group’s activities. Having a team of administrators ensures better decision-making and availability to oversee the group’s functionality. Conflict management is crucial, and administrators play a key role in resolving disagreements diplomatically.

Fostering Connections: Creating Your Own Pickleball Group

Empowering players to come together and form their own pickleball groups is a wonderful initiative. I’ve seen this firsthand in my classes, where students form groups to match their skill levels and embark on their pickleball journeys together. But forming a group is just the beginning; sustaining it requires careful consideration.

Diversity in Pickleball across the nation.

Setting the Stage with Group Introductions

The introduction to your group sets the tone for its culture and purpose. Welcome messages are a great way to communicate the essence of your group. Are you aiming for a light-hearted and chatty atmosphere or a more focused and information-driven space? Covering the who, what, where, and when can be immensely helpful in giving group members the essential information they need. A brief introduction can cover both of these goals: something like this is at the beginning of the group page: ” Welcome to the IPOP pickleball group! We are a group of passionate players, that gather at the _______location to participate in an open play suitable for all skill levels. We play every night from 5 pm to 10 pm”. Then the next paragraph could suggest the rules for the group. Remember this is just a suggested guideline for all of your peeps!

Laying Down the Ground Rules

Just like any community, pickleball groups need rules to thrive. Depending on the group’s nature, a variety of rules can be established. However, some rules are universally crucial, such as a strict “No Politics” policy. The goal is to maintain a welcoming environment where discussions revolve around pickleball and not divisive topics. Ensuring that only administrators have the power to add or remove members is also essential to avoid overwhelming the group.

Navigating Growth and Challenges

As pickleball groups grow, challenges can arise. New members might inadvertently break rules or clog up the chat with unrelated content. This is a sign of a healthy, expanding community. Having a team of administrators comes in handy during such times. Addressing conflicts and rule violations collectively ensures fair resolutions.

A growing group at a new court

Uniting through Pickleball

Forming and nurturing a pickleball group is an exciting venture within the rich tapestry of the pickleball culture. These groups represent a bridge between skill levels, backgrounds, and experiences, fostering connections that extend beyond the court. By focusing on strong foundations, clear communication, and inclusive guidelines, you can create a pickleball group that thrives as a welcoming, vibrant, and diverse community. So, whether you’re a seasoned player or just starting, remember that the joy of pickleball isn’t just in the game—it’s in the bonds we form along the way.

If you need additional help and suggestions in forming your own group, please feel free to reach out to me anytime here.

August 23, 2023/by Chris

Beginner Pickleball, Benefits of Pickleball, Pickleball, Pickleball eye protection, Pickleball news, Pickleball wellness & prevention

“Pickling Your Peepers: Serve, Smash, and Shield Your Eyes in Pickleball!”

health care professional is tending to a pickleball injury

So, my family of pickleheads, it’s time to “pickle your peepers” and gear up with protective eyewear! Let’s face it, we all want to play pickleball fearlessly, and nothing should hold us back from getting in front of those court smashers, returning with a soft dink, and winning those games.

Pickleball is a popular sport that has been gaining traction among players of all ages. As the game’s popularity soars, so does the awareness of the risks associated with playing without proper eye protection. I wrote this blog to explore the compelling reasons why protective goggles or eyewear should be mandatory in pickleball, and why players should prioritize the safety and health of their eyes while enjoying the game they love.

Now, some might argue that wearing goggles or glasses on the court may impede their vision and cramp their style. But trust me, it’s a small price to pay for protecting those precious peepers, this from a guy who has already had two sports-related retina detachments, and who discovered pickleball when my last operation sidelined my soccer playing days forever. When I was first introduced to the game, I was shocked at how many pickleball players don’t wear protection. Especially, when I experienced my lack of direction ( and the lack of many other newbies) on the courts. After all, pickleball is not just about winning a game; it’s about having fun, bonding with friends, and keeping those eyes healthy and happy for all the games yet to come.

The Perils of Playing Unprotected

Pickleball is a game that involves a hard plastic ball and swift paddle movements. The speed of the ball can be alarming, especially when it comes into contact with vulnerable soft tissue such as the eyes. Eye injuries can range from mild discomfort to severe retina detachment, which may require extensive surgery and prolonged recovery times. The risks are even more concerning for the average pickleball player, who tends to fall within the age range of 60-76, where eye injuries are less likely to heal quickly. According to the National Library of Medicine, “Proper eye protection should be strongly considered while playing pickleball, especially in the elderly population or in individuals who are at higher risk for retinal detachment.”

According to Pickleball Magazine, a pickleball can travel at one-third the velocity of a tennis ball or about 40 miles per hour. The magazine noted that when the players are positioned at the “no-volley line,” it can take 350 to 400 milliseconds – less than half a second – for the ball to travel from one paddle to the other. This does not leave players any time to avoid being hit in the eye with a ball. In addition to injuries from being hit by a ball, serious damage can occur from being hit in the eye with a paddle.

Numerous incidents of eye injuries have been reported in the pickleball community. One instance involved Allison Miller from Delta pickleball association in BC, who had her retina detached and required surgery after being hit by a whiffle ball during a game. Such stories underscore the urgency of implementing strict safety rules and mandatory eyewear usage. Recreational players are not the only ones that have had major injuries. This holds true even in the professional realm, as demonstrated by Jessie Irvine, a pro player who suffered a blow to the eye area during a recent tournament. Despite attempting to recuperate for several minutes, Irvine ultimately had to withdraw from the tournament bracket on that day and was unable to participate forcing her to completely exit the competition. These stories remind us that accidents can happen to anyone, but we can take preventive measures.

Retinal surgery is 100% avoidable with specs. just ask Allison Miller!

Why Players Are Reluctant to Wear Protective Eyewear?

While the need for eye protection is undeniable, some players are still hesitant to don goggles or eyewear. The most common concern is how it might impact their performance on the court. Players fear that the added gear may obstruct their vision or feel uncomfortable during intense, sweat-induced matches. Addressing these concerns and dispelling myths can help players realize that the benefits of wearing protective eyewear far outweigh any perceived drawbacks.

The Advantages of Embracing Eye Protection

Fearlessness on the Court: Knowing that their eyes are safe allows players to focus solely on their game, leading to improved performance and confidence.
Eye Strain Reduction: Protective eyewear shields the eyes from harmful UV rays and prevents squinting, leading to reduced eye strain from sun exposure.
Windborne Debris Protection: Eyewear shields the eyes from debris that might be carried by the wind during outdoor games, preserving clear vision.
Enhanced Depth Perception and Contrast: Proper eyewear designed for pickleball enhances depth perception and contrast, enabling players to track the ball with precision.
Prevention of Eye Injuries: Protective eyewear significantly reduces the risk of severe eye injuries, including retina detachment or cornea scraping from stray balls.
Reduced Risk of Paddle-Related Injuries: Protective eyewear also guards against accidental hits to the face from paddles, preventing potential injuries ( I saw this happen recently when a paddle flew out of the beginner’s hand and hit her partner in the back).

Selecting the Right Eyewear for a Perfect Fit (or as close to perfect!)

When choosing protective eyewear for pickleball, several key factors should be considered. These include impact resistance, anti-fogging, anti-glare, and UV resistance. Additionally, players with prescription needs should look for options that allow for prescription lenses. A snug and comfortable fit is essential to ensure a hassle-free experience during play. Try to get as close to a perfect fit as possible. This is very important because you don’t want to buy something that will give you a hard time while playing the game. The glasses shouldn’t be too loose or too tight. They should be as close to the perfect fit as possible. Now I buy inexpensive but really efficient eye protection to protect my eyes, although they don’t really offer me a better vision on the court, I feel safe getting in front of those balls from smashers. I use simple construction safety glasses that offer me clear UV lenses, fit well, are super durable, and best of all cheap enough that I always have extra pairs for my friends or newcomers that show up to play with me. However, if buying Pickleball gear from Home Depot doesn’t float your boat then here are some brands to consider when buying eyewear. For players seeking quality eyewear that are more than adequate for pickleball, several renowned brands offer an array of options.

These include:

inexpensive eye wear for pickleball players

Effective and inexpensive!

PS I haven’t tried all of these products but I did take the time to see what other players are wearing and get feedback. These were the brands I chose from my local groups, considering the price, availability, and quality of my selections. My goal is to inform and get eyewear onto as many players as possible!

In my humble opinion, eye protection is a paramount concern for pickleball players. The risks associated with playing unprotected are too great to be ignored. I strongly believe that mandating the use of protective goggles or eyewear is a necessary step to safeguard the eyes of pickleball enthusiasts, especially older players, who may be more vulnerable to eye injuries. Players must prioritize their eye health and well-being, understanding that wearing protective eyewear not only prevents injuries but also enhances their performance on the court. With the variety of eyewear options available, players can find a perfect fit that combines safety, comfort, and vision enhancement. So, let’s all come together as a community, embrace the importance of eye protection, and make it a firm rule in our games. Let’s pickle our peepers and savor the joy of pickleball without the fear of eye injuries looming over us. We owe it to ourselves, our friends, and the pickleball community to take this step toward safe and inclusive play.

My fellow pickleheads, I really believe it’s time to smash the notion that protective eyewear is just an optional accessory! It’s a game-changer, a sight-saver, and a must-have on the pickleball court. So next time you step on the court, remember to “serve, smash, and shield your eyes” – because in pickleball, protecting your vision is a NO brainer! Let’s keep the game fun, fierce, and injury-free. See you on the court, with goggles on and spirits high!

Yours in Pickleball, Chris

Vented to reduce the fog of pickleball fun!

July 27, 2023/by Chris

Benefits of Pickleball, Pickleball wellness & prevention

That, my friends, is what pickleball brings to your community

ipop sports and entertainment

Pickleball, a sport that has captured the hearts of many, is not just about hitting a ball with a paddle. It’s a community, a shared passion that brings people together. As a pickleball instructor, I recently received a heartwarming message from one of my students that reminded me of the true power of this game. In this blog post, I want to share the story of how pickleball’s inclusivity and enthusiasm can transcend boundaries and bring people from all walks of life together.

Warming my pickleball heart.

A Message of Gratitude
I was overwhelmed with gratitude when I received a message from one of my students expressing her heartfelt appreciation. It was not just about the fact that I had helped her improve her game; it was the deeper impact that pickleball had made on her life. She thanked me for introducing her to the world of pickleball, a small “change” that had helped her game and brought immense joy and fulfillment.

The Power of Invitation
What truly touched me was her enthusiasm to share this newfound passion with her loved ones. She mentioned inviting her husband, her friend’s husband, her sons, and her neighbors to join her in playing pickleball. It was a beautiful testament to the power of invitation and the inclusive nature of the sport. So keep on inviting newcomers to play with you, remember pickleball peeps that play together Stay Together in health and wellness!
Help and nurture our new players that you see on the court, and give back to them with a little time, there is nothing more selfish than when a player who has received so much from the sport avoids spending time with the newcomers. Give back and you’ll be happier knowing that you’ve “gotten” the true SPIRIT of pickleball.

Building a Community
Pickleball is more than just a game. It can foster a sense of community and connection. By inviting her family members, friends, and neighbors to experience the game, my student was creating a network of individuals who could share the joy and excitement that pickleball brings. One family now has 4 generations coming to play pickleball regularly, and this is so healthy for players that attend, let alone the benefit we all get from participating in a big pickleball family, simple there is no other sport that offers generational inclusivity like pickleball! In fact according to Vaughn Baker, “Several years ago, PBS came down from Philadelphia and produced a special on this new game pickleball. The producer asked me to round up the players with qualified health benefits from Pickleball. I lined them up in single file for 40 feet and PBS selected them at random. Here were some of their comments: “Saved my life,” “Lost 80 pounds,” “Off all meds,” “Doctor can’t believe it.” That, my friends, is what pickleball brings to your community. It doesn’t matter if you are good or bad because pickles come in all sizes and shapes — laughing all the way! ” It is this aspect that I truly love.

Breaking Barriers

Diversity in Pickleball across the nation.

Pickleball knows no boundaries. As a Canadian, I grew up with the concept of a multicultural society and at times, I have struggled to see the concept in practice. The belief that a truly multi-cultural society exists…until I began playing at Keswick that is! On any given day, Keswick is filled with many different languages, laughter, and even encouraging banter. I can now call out in Hindi, numbers in Farsi, and say good shot in Mandarin! What other sport would teach me that? Only pickleball!

It is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, genders, and abilities. By inviting her husband and sons, my student was breaking down the stereotype that pickleball is only for a specific demographic. The inclusivity of the sport encourages everyone to participate, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

Spreading the Love

Pickleball’s Spectrum of Diversity

As pickleball enthusiasts, we have the opportunity to introduce this wonderful sport to those around us. By sharing our experiences and inviting others to join, we can create a ripple effect that expands the pickleball community. I have learned more about different cultures, my community, and myself than at any other time in my life. The more people we introduce to the game, the more we not only contribute to the growth and inclusivity of the sport but to our neighborhoods and nation too!

The Privilege of Sharing
The story of my student’s enthusiasm and her efforts to invite her loved ones into the world of pickleball is a testament to the power of this incredible sport. It brings people together, breaks down barriers, and creates a sense of belonging. As pickleball enthusiasts, we have the privilege of sharing this experience with others and expanding the community. Let us embrace the inclusive spirit of pickleball and continue to spread the love for this game that has the potential to change lives. So share the passion peeps!

Yours in Pickleball!
Chris

July 19, 2023/by Chris

Benefits of Pickleball, Pickleball

POP! POP! What is that noise coming from Keswick Park?

IPOP Sports and Entertainment

POP! POP! POP! The sound echoed through the park, followed by laughter and banter. I was curious, had to approach, and had to ask, “What the heck is that sound, and what’s so funny?” That’s how I stumbled upon the beginner’s Pickleball nights at Keswick Park, and little did I know it would change my life!

Despite being covered in sweat after a blazing trail ride on my mountain bike, I was welcomed with open arms by the seasoned pickleball players. Within sixty minutes, I was given a paddle ( wooden but fun), shown the ropes and I was hooked on the game. All from several players that couldn’t speak English! What struck me the most was the diversity of the players, new Canadians from all over the world, and the encouragement they showed each other.

Keswick Park is a small community green space in Burnaby, BC, with one of the fastest-growing groups of Pickleball enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest, held together by a WhatsApp group and a passion to grow the game. Players actively recruit anyone who walks by and stops to watch, especially unsuspecting tennis players who show up during designated PB hours and find the courts packed with laughter and the sound of Pickleballs getting whacked back and forth across the net.

My personal story and connection to PB began in the summer of 2022 when I was riding my bike around Keswick Park. I was struggling with mental health issues and had been feeling lonely and depressed due to the pandemic. In fact, a recent study by the Frontiers of Psychology concluded that ” pickleball is displayed as an inclusive sport that does not need adaptations, resulting in great interest to be worked in different populations with mental problems.”

What’s remarkable about the Keswick PB community is that there’s no real leadership just volunteers, and a loose organizational structure, guided by our local Burnaby Pickleball Association, that provides paddles and other equipment to help the group mentor new players. Our group continues to grow and attract new players. Ming, a player who focuses on teaching new players the rules of Pickleball in broken English, is a shining example of the inclusivity and kindness that defines this community.

I believe that Pickleball can make a big difference in the lives of anyone willing to try. It certainly made a difference in mine. That’s why I want to share this feeling and experience with as many people as possible and open up IPOPs across Canada.

Keswick Park is a special place with a vibrant and diverse Pickleball community that welcomes all who want to play. It’s a place where laughter and encouragement abound, and where a game with a strange-sounding name can change the lives of us all for the better. Playing PB with the group at Keswick was a big part of my recovery, providing great low-impact exercise and a network of new neural pathways that lifted my mood. I will talk about this in later Blogs, but this is only one of the reasons that I knew I needed to start the Inclusive Place of Pickleball and model it after the experience I have had at Keswick. Pickleball is not just a game…it’s about connection and community.

For this, I will always be eternally grateful…

July 14, 2023/by Chris

Personal, Pickleball, Pickleball news

community that brings people together, encourages healthy living, and promotes a positive and active lifestyle

Ipop Sports & Entertainment

IPOP’s Canadian dream

Are you a pickleball fanatic like me? Do you feel the frustration of not being able to find a court to play on? Well, my fellow pickleball enthusiasts, it’s time to take action and join the Inclusive Place of Pickleball’s (IPOP) movement!

I have a deep love and passion for this game, and I believe that pickleball is more than just a sport. It’s a community that brings people together, encourages healthy living, and promotes a positive and active lifestyle. But, unfortunately, the pickleball community is facing a major problem in the lower mainland – a complete lack of pickleball space to play.

As the fastest-growing sport in North America, the number of players far exceeds the available court space. And suppose we don’t start taking action now. In that case, we will simply be priced out of the commercial real estate market, and pickleball facilities, land, and repurposed spaces will disappear or become so expensive that only the rich can play in country clubs or private club facilities.

That’s why I started IPOP. I began my quest to solve this problem by researching the iPOP business plan, and now we are on the search for space in this beautiful city. But finding space hasn’t been easy. The fear of my kids never being able to play at times that fit their schedule, or afford an expensive private club, is what fuels my desire to solve this problem.

We aim to get the first location up and running, raise capital again, repeat, and buy and build, in as many Canadian places as possible. Raw land, and commercial, recreational, and agricultural areas are not getting any cheaper, and our growing nation has many competing interests for a diminishing space. We need to secure pickleball spots now for our children and families for the future. Possibly, an opportunity to create the world’s first Pickleball REIT, or annuity fund. After all, we Canadians need to solve a Canadian problem with a Canadian solution.

I believe that my Higher Power loves Pickleball, and it is just a matter of time before we find a home for the first Canadian IPOP location. When we find it, our goal is to raise the capital to buy the building and secure the space for the future generations of pickleball players that are certain to come.

My dream is to play pickleball with my grandkids at an IPOP facility. At IPOP, we believe the world is a better place with pickleball, individuals are better (defined as healthy, happy, and productive) when they play pickleball, and communities are stronger with pickleball players.

So, are you ready to join the movement and help us grow? Stay tuned to hear more about IPOP and how you can help us secure pickleball spots for future generations. Let’s make sure that pickleball remains an inclusive and accessible sport for all Canadian Pickleheads, from coast to coast!

POP!

July 8, 2023/by Chris