Black Pickleball and Company Charlotte Initiative: A Charlotte nonprofit called Black Pickleball and Company is teaching pickleball to the Black community in a welcoming, pressure-free setting. Founded by Kayla Brooks, the group offers relaxed lessons to help new players learn the game without fear or judgment. Their goal is to make pickleball more inclusive and build community through the sport.
Growing Pickleball Among New Players
Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., but many Black people feel left out. Kayla Brooks started Black Pickleball and Company after realizing few Black players were involved in the sport.
“We want to take away the intimidation, that barrier to entry of, ‘I don’t see anyone that looks like me, and so now I’m scared to suck, and I’m scared that I won’t be accepted,’”(Kayla Brooks).
At events like the “Rally in Charlotte,” Brooks teaches simple rules like “Stay off the kitchen. If it bounces in the kitchen first, you can hit it.” The sessions are designed as “Pick Up and Play” where new players can learn at their own pace. “It is a judgement-free zone!” Brooks emphasized.
Learning and Community Building
New players appreciate the friendly atmosphere. Sallie Johnson said,
“Today I was like, let me actually make an attempt and play for the first time.”
Volunteer Fritz Jean-Baptist guides participants, saying,
“Teaching them the proper way of playing pickleball. Just having fun doing it.”
He also models sportsmanship, telling players to “tap paddles” after a game.
Deron Alexander, who has played ping pong and tennis, enjoys trying pickleball.
“A lot of people just come to learn how to play, it’s exciting,” Alexander told Queen City News.
Since the nonprofit began, they have introduced over 800 people to pickleball. They plan to expand their programs to include different age groups like kids and seniors.
Overcoming Barriers and Building Connections
Some new players face skepticism from friends. Andres Chaparro said,
“You know, they scratch their head a little bit, and it’s like, ‘Wow, really, you doing that?’ But honestly, it’s so much fun when you get started.” (Kayla Brooks),
“It’s intimidating to go into spaces where you primarily don’t see people that look like you, which is more intimidating than the sport itself.”
The nonprofit helps players not only learn pickleball but also make lasting friendships. Sallie Johnson said,
“It’s really wonderful to see that there is a place for us in pickleball.”
Kayla Brooks added,
“I’m even more proud to see the connections that get made that are lasting and transcend the court.”
News in Brief: Black Pickleball and Company Charlotte Initiative
Black Pickleball and Company teaches pickleball to the Black community in Charlotte, providing a supportive space to learn the sport. Founded by Kayla Brooks, the nonprofit has introduced over 800 new players and plans to expand programs for all ages. The group helps break barriers and build lasting friendships.
ALSO READ: How Black Pickleball & Co. Is Using Pickleball to Empower Charlotte’s Underserved Communities