Paddles With a Purpose Pickleball Event: The Bethesda-Chevy Chase YMCA will host a two-day event called Paddles with a Purpose on Saturday, May 17. The event is open to YMCA members and the public. It celebrates a new partnership between the YMCA and JOOLA, a well-known pickleball brand based in Gaithersburg, Maryland.
Professional pickleball players Bobbi Oshiro and Johnny Goldberg will attend. Bobbi Oshiro is ranked #4 on the Women’s APP Tour. Johnny Goldberg is the head coach of the Miami Pickleball Club, a team in Major League Pickleball. Attendees will get the chance to meet and play with both athletes during the event.
A Personal Connection to the YMCA
Richard Lee is the CEO and Owner of JOOLA. He shared how his journey into the sport began at the same YMCA, now teaming up with his brand.
“Before launching JOOLA Pickleball, my introduction to this amazing sport started with a few pickleball lessons at my YMCA in Maryland.” – (Richard Lee)
The YMCA is located on Old Georgetown Road in Bethesda, where the event will be held.
Activities at the Event
A ribbon-cutting ceremony will start the day at 10 a.m. This ceremony will dedicate the Richard Lee Court in honor of his contributions to the sport and the community. After the ceremony, there will be a meet and greet with top pickleball professionals.
At 11 a.m., an instructional clinic will begin. It will continue until 12:30 p.m. and will be followed by round robin play, giving attendees more time on the court.
What This Event Means for the Community
This event highlights the growing popularity of pickleball in the area. It also shows how local partnerships can bring more opportunities to learn and play the sport. With professionals on hand, new and experienced players can enjoy and improve their game.
News in Brief: Paddles With a Purpose Pickleball Event
The Bethesda-Chevy Chase YMCA will host Paddles with a Purpose on May 17 to launch a new partnership with pickleball brand JOOLA. The event includes clinics, round robin play, and appearances by pro players Bobbi Oshiro and Johnny Goldberg. A ribbon-cutting will dedicate the new Richard Lee Court.
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