Through Pickleball, I found a sense of community and purpose
As the pandemic began to take hold of the world, I found myself struggling…
Being at home all day with limited social interaction and no opportunity for competitive activity was taking a toll on my mental health.
That's when I discovered Pickleball.
Pickleball quickly became my new favorite hobby.
It was the perfect activity for the pandemic as it could be played outdoors with social distancing and minimal contact. The sport was also easy to learn, and I quickly found myself getting better with each game.
Playing pickleball became a daily routine for me, and it was a great way to break up the monotony of being stuck at home. The exercise and fresh air did wonders for my mental health, and I found myself feeling more positive and energized.
I began coaching newcomers to the sport, passing on the skills and techniques that I had learned. It was a small way to give back, but it gave me a sense of purpose during a difficult time.
As the pandemic began to subside, I realized that my experience with pickleball had taught me a valuable lesson. Instead of asking what pickleball could do for me, I began to ask what I could do for pickleball. I started organizing local play and events to support the growth of the sport in my community. I soon realized me realize that my newfound love for pickleball was more than just a hobby. It had become a lifeline for me during the pandemic, and I wanted to give back to the sport that had given me so much.
Through pickleball, I found a sense of community and purpose that helped me through one of the most challenging times of my life. It's a reminder that sometimes the things we love can also be the things that help us through the toughest times. And now, I'm excited to continue giving back to a sport that has given me so much.
- Pete Baroody