Amy and Joel’s Pickleball Ministry: Amy and Joel have turned their love for pickleball into a mission to inspire youth across the globe. The couple, who once thought the sport was only for older people, now teaches kids in six different countries how to play the game.
From Doubt to Passion
Initially, Joel and Amy were skeptical about pickleball.
“A couple of my friends started playing, and I’m like, yeah, this is kind of dumb.” – (Joel)
Amy shared a similar sentiment, stating,
“I thought it was for older people with a Wiffle ball!” – (Amy)
However, their perspectives changed after winning a few games.
“It’s just a great game, you know, social. You can actually improve at it. We just thought, wow, there’s something here.” – (Joel)
A Heart for Ministry
Their newfound love for pickleball coincided with their ministry work in St. Louis. Amy saw children in difficult situations at a skate park, where drug deals were happening.
“We were doing a ministry opportunity in St. Louis, and I saw these difficult situations. We were in a skate park, and drug deals were happening. It just broke my heart, and I’m like, most of these kids are bored.” – (Amy)
Motivated by these observations, the couple decided to share their passion for pickleball with youth around the world.
“We were like, if we can reach those boys and help them get off the streets, maybe we can build community that way.” – (Amy)
With the support of Iris Global, they packed their pickleball paddles and began teaching kids how to play pickleball in countries such as Mozambique, Egypt, and Tokyo.
“You can buy portable nets, so you don’t necessarily need a court, per say. Once the door opened for us, we just kept saying yes.” – (Amy)
Bringing Joy to Underserved Kids
During their travels, they witnessed the joy pickleball brought to children who often faced challenging circumstances.
“Many of the kids that we played with don’t have shoes. They are wearing donated clothes. Yet when you put the paddle in their hand, and you see them, it’s like their smile … they had so much joy for just doing something new.” – (Joel)
They also experienced the generosity of the communities they visited.
“When you’re sitting there and you go and visit a village, and the people give you the equivalent of half a month’s wage as a welcoming gift to you, it’s very humbling.” – (Joel)
Faith and Connection Through Pickleball
For Joel, the experience is deeply tied to his faith.
“The Bible says the joy of the Lord is our strength. That holds meaning for me. I can read it and recite it, but I just witnessed it.” – (Joel)
Their work goes beyond sports; it fosters connections and creates joy in the lives of children worldwide. With their commitment to ministry and the sport they love, Amy and Joel will continue to share their passion for pickleball and spread happiness wherever they go.
News in Brief: Amy and Joel’s Pickleball Ministry
Amy and Joel have transformed their initial skepticism about pickleball into a mission to inspire youth globally. Teaching in six countries, they share their passion for the sport, particularly in underserved areas.
Witnessing joy among children facing challenges, they emphasize the importance of faith and connection through pickleball. Supported by Iris Global, they aim to bring happiness and community engagement through their efforts.
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