Largest Pickleball Lesson to Make History: In a bid to build a healthier future for America’s children, Shape Up US, a leading nonprofit organization, is partnering with Munchkin Programs founder Mark Miller to host “The World’s Largest Pickleball Lesson.” This significant event is scheduled for November 2, 2024, at McDowell Mountain Ranch Park in Scottsdale, Arizona, a premier pickleball destination. Shape Up US has consistently provided engaging and comprehensive wellness programs, aiming to instill healthy habits from a young age.
The Visionaries Behind the Event
Shape Up US was founded by Jyl Steinback, also known as “America’s Healthiest Mom,” who has been a transformative figure in the health and wellness industry for over 35 years. Steinback is celebrated for her Hip-Hop Healthy Heart Program for Children, the Clap4Health initiative, and her cookbook, “Think Outside The Lunchbox.” Her dedication to promoting healthy living earned her a Community Leadership Award from the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, and Nutrition. Under her leadership, Shape Up US advocates for wellness curricula in education from kindergarten through sixth grade.
Mark Miller, the founder of Munchkin Programs, brings his innovative approach to children’s sports education to this landmark event. Miller has received extensive media coverage and set a record in Chicago for “The World’s Largest Tennis Lesson,” gathering 400 kids. His efforts have been widely recognized, and he aims to replicate this success with pickleball.
A Historic Event for Kids
“The World’s Largest Pickleball Lesson” is poised to set a new world record while promoting physical fitness and community engagement. Alan Schwartz, President of the USTA, praised Miller, calling him a “pied piper” for his exceptional skills in working with young children. The event aims to attract hundreds of children eager to learn pickleball, building a sense of achievement and confidence through Miller’s engaging teaching style.
“Mark is truly a pied piper with great skills in working with young children and their parents. The key difference between his program and other programs for children the same age is the man himself. I am delighted with what he is doing to grow the game of Pickleball.”
-( Alan Schwartz )
With the sport’s growing popularity and over 31,000 pickleball courts across Arizona, this event showcases the positive impact of community-centered health initiatives. The spacious venue at McDowell Mountain Ranch Park is set to accommodate a large turnout, ensuring that children of all experience levels can participate and enjoy the session. The lesson will cover pickleball fundamentals, including rules, basic techniques, and effective play strategies.
Building a Healthier Future
Shape Up US continues to make strides in its mission to improve children’s and families’ health nationwide. The combined efforts of Shape Up US and dedicated professionals like Mark Miller promise a bright future for promoting physical activity and wellness in communities everywhere.
“The World’s Largest Pickleball Lesson” will run from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., welcoming children aged three to 12. Parents can make reservations for their children through Shape Up US or Munchkin Programs.
Event Details
- Date: Saturday, November 2, 2024
- Location: McDowell Mountain Ranch Park – 10607 E Paradise Lane, Scottsdale, AZ. 85260
- Time: 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Shape Up US, founded in 2002, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving children’s and families’ health and wellness. The organization offers educational programs, resources, and community events to promote physical activity, healthy eating, and positive mental health. Through initiatives like the Hip-Hop Healthy Heart Program for Children, Shape Up US aims to combat childhood obesity and building lifelong healthy habits. Collaborating with schools, healthcare professionals, and community leaders, Shape Up US strives to create a healthier future for the next generation.