Aisha Stith’s Pickleballin Lifestyle Club: Black History Month celebrates individuals making a lasting impact, and in the world of pickleball, Aisha Stith is doing just that. Based in Atlanta, Georgia, she isn’t just playing the game—she’s working to ensure that more people, especially in Black communities, have access to the sport.
As the founder of Pickleballin Lifestyle Club (PLC), Stith has introduced thousands of new players to the game. Her mission is simple: make pickleball accessible, welcoming, and fun for everyone.
From Curiosity to Passion
Stith’s introduction to pickleball began with a sound—a rhythmic pop she heard coming from a local park. Unfamiliar with the noise, she searched online for “pop-sounding tennis” and discovered pickleball. The next day, she was on the court.
Her background in sports was varied—ice hockey, swimming, gymnastics, soccer, and basketball—but none ever truly stuck. Pickleball, however, was different.
“This is the first sport in life where I can see myself progressing. I use my story as inspiration for those who say, ‘I’m not athletic.’ If I can do it, anyone can.” – (Aisha)
Making Pickleball More Inclusive
Atlanta’s pickleball scene is diverse, but Stith recognizes the need for greater representation at the national level.
“Our organization should be on every sports channel simply because of the number of people we’ve introduced to pickleball. Shapeshifting is an understatement—we’ve introduced thousands to this American sport.” – (Aisha)
Her goal is clear:
- More Black players.
- More communities playing.
- More doors opening for those who never thought they belonged in the sport.
Why Pickleball is More Than a Sport
For Stith, pickleball wasn’t just about the game—it was about the culture, the fashion, the fun, and most importantly, the inclusivity.
“Community means everyone—every body type, background, and ability level. I’ve played with individuals who are differently abled, and they are some of the most amazing players I’ve met. Pickleball challenges the status quo because everyone has a place here.” – (Aisha)
A Sport That Changes Lives
Pickleball has become a lifestyle for Stith, one that has changed her physically and mentally. Over the past year and a half, she has lost 60 pounds, crediting the sport for keeping her active and engaged. Her advice for new players?
“Have fun with it. This sport can change your life. And don’t be surprised if you get schooled by an 80-year-old—I do all the time!” – (Aisha)
Future of Pickleball: More Representation, More Stories
Stith envisions a future where stories like hers are at the forefront, appearing in documentaries, on TV, and across local communities.
She calls on municipalities and organizations to recognize the potential of supporting initiatives like PLC—programs that actively bring diversity and new energy to the sport.
“Our organization has introduced at least 1,000 people to pickleball in just two years. I don’t know many groups that can say that.” – (Aisha)
And she has no plans of slowing down.
A Motto for the Court—and for Life
Stith lives by a simple philosophy:
“Upward mobility – it’s a great gift given to us all.”
She even has an alter ego on the pickleball court, “Sandy Stith,” a playful reminder to keep working on her sportsmanship. “Because let’s be honest, we all have our moments!”
Through her work, Aisha Stith is not just growing the sport—she’s creating a movement. And as pickleball continues to expand, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one person can have.
News in Brief: Aisha Stith’s Pickleballin Lifestyle Club
Aisha Stith, founder of Pickleballin Lifestyle Club (PLC), is making pickleball more accessible to Black communities and pickleball players of all backgrounds. Her organization has introduced over 1,000 people to the sport in just two years. Passionate about inclusivity, she sees pickleball as a game that welcomes everyone.
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