Pay it 4ward Pickleball Community Hero: A devoted pickleball volunteer in Albuquerque, New Mexico, has been recognized for his efforts to grow the sport and bring people together. On a recent evening at Ventana Ranch Park, Jimmy Madrid received a surprise gift of $400 through the Pay it 4ward program, thanks to his commitment to the pickleball community.
From Tennis Doubter to Pickleball Advocate
David Lopez, who nominated Jimmy Madrid, used to be a serious tennis player and didn’t think he would ever enjoy pickleball.
“I was just a really hardcore tennis player. I used to see people playing pickleball, and I was not going to play pickleball,” (David Lopez).
But over time, Lopez gave it a try. Now, he’s one of the sport’s biggest supporters and has made close friends, including Jimmy Madrid, on the courts.
Daily Efforts Make a Big Difference
Jimmy Madrid is one of the elected pickleball ambassadors at Ventana Ranch Park. He and other volunteers arrive early each morning, especially in the summer, to set up the courts.
“They get here about 7, 7:30 in the summer. They set up the nets, they make sure everybody has a court to play on, they provide the balls,
they provide drinks and snacks on occasion on their own dime. Jimmy makes sure — along with other officials — that everybody’s able to play and enjoy themselves,” (David Lopez).
Giving Back to a Community Leader
To show appreciation for Jimmy Madrid’s hard work and generosity, David Lopez teamed up with the Pay it 4ward program to surprise him with a $400 reward. Madrid’s leadership and kindness have helped make pickleball a fun and welcoming activity for everyone at the park.
Making a Lasting Impact
By volunteering his time and money, Jimmy Madrid has helped grow a sense of community around pickleball in Albuquerque. Players of all ages and skill levels now gather daily to enjoy the sport, thanks to the efforts of Madrid and others like him.
News in Brief: Pay it 4ward Pickleball Community Hero
Jimmy Madrid, a volunteer at Ventana Ranch Park in Albuquerque, received $400 from the Pay it 4ward program for his work growing the local pickleball community. Nominator David Lopez praised Madrid’s dedication, including providing balls, snacks, and early court setups. The reward recognized Madrid’s selfless support for the sport.
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