New year, new goals... and hopefully, fewer unforced errors on the court! As we ring in 2025, let’s embrace fresh opportunities to grow, connect, and perfect our pickleball game (while secretly hoping the other team’s paddle breaks). It’s the perfect time to set some wild goals, challenge ourselves, and, of course, celebrate all the moments that make our pickleball community as strong as our backhands.

In this issue:

• Education 📚 Two seemingly unrelated sports share a powerful lesson about building community.

• Travel ✈️ An Italian getaway that combines world-class coaching with unforgettable experiences.

• Community Spotlight 🌟 One player’s inspiring journey to creating a brand that celebrates connection.

Here’s to a year of progress, adventure, and finding out just how many pickleball puns we can fit into a conversation!

Education

Curling Meets Pickleball

Curling and pickleball might seem completely different at first glance, but they share a powerful focus on community. Both sports bring players of all ages and abilities together to connect and enjoy the game.

Curling’s “Spirit of Curling” emphasizes respect and camaraderie, while pickleball courts are filled with friendly banter and encouragement. With easy-to-access equipment and welcoming environments, these sports are about more than just play. They create lasting friendships and meaningful connections that extend beyond the rink and court. Discover the unique bonds between these two sports.

The Picklehood celebrates the spirit of the court with apparel and gifts that bring the fun, connection, and energy of pickleball to life.

Show off your love for the sport with designs that reflect your passion and style. From playful shirts to giftable items, The Picklehood has everything you need to feel connected on and off the court.

Travel

A Roman Getaway Awaits

Start your day with world-class coaching from Canadian pros Christina Chin and Alex Stojkov, then immerse yourself in the beauty and flavors of Italy. The Rome Pickleball Getaway blends pickleball, adventure, and Italian indulgence for an unforgettable week, including:

• Guided Colosseum tour followed by dinner with breathtaking views

• Vineyard dinner in Castel Gandolfo, paired with stunning landscapes

• Relaxation at Anzio Beach with fresh seafood and coastal charm

Your paddle, Italy, and a community of fellow players are waiting. Learn more and reserve your spot today.

Community Highlight

The Story Behind The Picklehood

For Trisha Shelley, pickleball became her lifeline. After years of putting others first and feeling disconnected from her own dreams, Trisha found herself rediscovering her spark on the pickleball court. What started as playful Saturday mornings with her “mom friends” quickly turned into a passion that reignited her confidence and creativity.

With her newfound love for the game, Trisha channeled her energy into designing team shirts for tournaments, sparking the idea for The Picklehood. Today, her brand celebrates pickleball’s welcoming spirit, inspiring others to pursue their passions, build community, and find joy on and off the court. Read the full story here.

WHAT’S HAPPENING

• Female Pickleball Pros are Cashing in Big 💰

• Cam Newton Joined a Pickleball Game… & Nobody Knew 🤯

• ICYMI: Everything That Happened in Pickleball in 2024 ⏮

TAKE ACTION

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