WCDSB Staff’s Pickleball Craze: The last staff pickleball game of the school year took place this week at the Waterloo Catholic District School Board (WCDSB), ending a popular wellness initiative started in fall 2023. Led by Administrator Pat Runstedler and Consultant Andrea Pfeiffer, the weekly games promoted fitness, connection, and fun among staff members across schools.
What began with just a few courts and a small group of players at St. David Catholic Secondary School grew into a weekly event with more than 35 participants. By February, all nine courts were in use as the game gained popularity among staff of all roles.
A Small Start With Big Goals
Pat Runstedler and Andrea Pfeiffer wanted to support staff wellness through physical activity and community. The pair launched the pickleball games to get people moving and smiling.
“Staff wellness through movement and connection has always been a priority for Andrea and me. Healthy, active living—and Pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in the world—provided the perfect opportunity for both.” – (Pat Runstedler)
All Are Welcome to Play
The games were open to everyone, regardless of job title or skill. Teachers, principals, educational assistants, retirees, and even family members joined in. Some brought their kids along to enjoy the fun too. The atmosphere was always open and inclusive.
The message was simple: there’s always space for one more. This welcoming spirit matched the energy of the PALS (Playground Activity Leaders in Schools) program, which also promotes teamwork and active play.
A Community Grows on the Court
Each week, the games brought more people together. Even the WCDSB Communications Team joined the fun, after a bit of encouragement and coaching from Pat Runstedler himself. Pat even helped a hesitant team member take their first swing with a paddle.
“It’s become more than a game. It’s a community built on wellness, laughter, and a little friendly competition.” – (Pat Runstedler)
Though this week’s game marked a farewell for Pat, who is retiring from the board, his passion for the sport is still going strong.
Looking Ahead to More Play
While Pat Runstedler is stepping away from his role at WCDSB, he has no plans to leave the court behind. He hopes to start coaching pickleball in retirement and is already inviting new “students of Pickle” to join him in September. The Communications Team is already lined up to play.
News in Brief: WCDSB Staff’s Pickleball Craze
WCDSB wrapped up its school-year staff pickleball games, a growing wellness program led by Pat Runstedler and Andrea Pfeiffer. The weekly matches promoted health, fun, and community among over 35 staff members. Although Pat is retiring, he plans to keep playing and coaching pickleball this fall.
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