Shakira Abdi Breaks Barriers with Pickleball: Pickleball, rapidly becoming one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., boasts a participation rate of 48.3 million adult Americans, according to the Association of Pickleball Players. As the sport gains traction, individuals like Shakira Abdi are leveraging its popularity to make a meaningful impact.
A Passionate Mission
Shakira Abdi, a Minnesota-based pickleball player with professional aspirations, is on a mission to expand the sport’s reach. In collaboration with Harambee Sports, Abdi organized a free pickleball camp for middle schoolers, aiming to introduce them to the game and its benefits. “I’m like the only one of my friends who plays pickleball,” said 12-year-old participant Christian Gust, reflecting the camp’s impact on local youth.
Cultural Barriers and Personal Goals
Born in Somalia and raised in Kenya, Abdi faces cultural barriers where female sports participation is often restricted. Determined to change this narrative, she plans to launch a non-profit organization named “Try Me Pickleball.”
“My culture, girls are not allowed to play sports. So for me to even play to show them I can inspire other girls like me, you can wear your hijab and do more. I just want them to see me and say if she did it we can do it too.” – (Abdi)
Through her efforts, Abdi hopes to break down barriers and inspire more girls to pursue their sports ambitions.
News in Brief: Shakira Abdi Breaks Barriers with Pickleball
Aspiring pickleball professional Shakira Abdi is using her passion for the sport to inspire and break cultural barriers. Partnering with Harambee Sports, Abdi hosted a free pickleball camp for middle schoolers in Minnesota, aiming to introduce the game to a younger audience. With plans to establish a non-profit called “Try Me Pickleball,” Abdi wants to extend her reach and provide similar opportunities for others.
As a Somali-born, Kenya-raised woman in a culture that traditionally restricts female sports participation, Abdi is committed to showing that women can excel in sports, regardless of cultural constraints.
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