A First Paddle Success Story: Two Girls, One Court, and Endless Possibilities

We have to brag on two amazing young girls who are totally crushing it in their second series of First Paddle lessons! When they first showed up on the court, they were just looking for something new and fun to do. Now? They're the perfect example of what happens when kids get great pickleball instruction mixed with some solid life lessons. And honestly, the coolest part isn't just that their serves are getting better—it's watching them grow into these confident, determined young people right before our eyes.

Whitney and Emma Claire both participated in our Novice level of First Paddle last spring. They played in our spring youth tournament. They worked on their game throughout the summer, and by the fall were ready for the next level: First Paddle-Skill Builders. They are the only girls in this class, but boy, oh, boy, they are giving the boys a run for their money!

Emma Claire practices her serve

Whitney follows through with a drive

But here's the thing about First Paddle: we really do believe pickleball is way more than just about winning a game. Every single session, our coaches are working in lessons about respect, responsibility, integrity, communication, perseverance, and sportsmanship. And we're not talking about boring lectures here. These girls are learning this stuff while they're actually playing. When they call out the score nice and clear before serving, they're practicing communication. When they high-five their partner after a tough rally (win or lose), that's sportsmanship in action. It's all happening intentionally and naturally, which is exactly how it should be.

The transformation we've seen in Whitney and Emma Claire is pretty amazing. They've figured out how to handle winning and losing with grace. They've learned to stick with it when a new shot is really hard to nail down. But here's what really gets us excited: watching their confidence absolutely skyrocket. That nervous energy from day one? Gone. Now they step onto the court knowing they can tackle whatever comes their way. This is what First Paddle success looks like—not just better shots, but better, more confident kids.

And the best part is that this confidence will follow them everywhere. The same determination they use to work on their backhand shows up when they're tackling homework or trying something new. The teamwork skills they're building with their doubles partners help them communicate better in every part of their lives. It all connects.

Whitney and Emma Claire are building their pickleball skills and figuring out what it takes to succeed in the world. They both can't wait to participate in the next Battle of the Paddles youth tournament coming up in May. And their opponents better watch out! But the real win comes from their growth off the court, as they navigate their way to a happy, productive, and purposeful life.

 At First Paddle, every child has the chance to shine, grow, and discover just how capable they truly are—and these two inspiring players show us exactly what's possible when kids are given that opportunity.

The shining faces of the Spring '25 First Paddle Novice group say it all!

We want to expand our program to reach more kids like Whitney and Emma Claire. Girls who find purpose in perseverance. Girls and boys who might not otherwise be able to participate due to financial barriers. Kids who need a chance to succeed both on the court and in life.

Your support can make a difference. Whether through volunteering, making a one-time or ongoing contribution on Giving Tuesday, or setting up a Qualified Charitable Distribution to benefit First Paddle, you can help write more First Paddle Success stories. All the Whitneys and Emma Claires out there will thank you.

Click here for info on QCDs.             Click here for info on Giving Tuesday.