Coffee shop discussions and noodling on a napkin, all focused on one thing: how do we engage more people of color and widen the scope of ethnic and age participation in pickleball? Too many people see pickleball as a sport of old white folks, yet the court activity tells a different story. Still, in 2022 pickleball courts weren’t being built out in typically under-served areas of Seattle, and Sue Goodwin tired of waiting for the city to do something.
 

By starting Diversity and Inclusion in Pickleball, or DIIP, a dream became reality. A quick appeal to the community yielded donations with a local nonprofit pickleball association as a pass-through, and a fund now totaling $12,000 provides funds for paddles, nets where needed, and court rentals for play dates.

Importantly, DIIP reaches into the core of under-served communities to engage players and potential leaders to grow pickleball. An Advisory Council reflective of the communities directs the expenditures and event planning. AARP jumped on board in 2023, providing money and volunteers to the 8 community play days. 2024 promises deeper and more expansive community events. Building community, promoting fitness, and sharing this fun sport, for all.

We're always on the lookout for fun and interesting pickleball stories to highlight in our newsletter. We'd love to hear what your local players are up to – email us at admin@playtimescheduler.com to tell us all about it!