Black Pickleball & Co culture in Charlotte: Pickleball is catching on fast in Charlotte, and one local nonprofit is helping an underrepresented group grab a paddle and join in. Black Pickleball & Co. (BPC), led by founder Kayla Brooks, is giving Black residents a chance to play, connect, and grow through the game. From social sessions to business opportunities, BPC is shaping what it means to belong in pickleball, on and off the court. But its mission goes far deeper than just sport.
Key Highlights
Black Pickleball & Co. is introducing pickleball to the Black community in Charlotte, NC
Founder Kayla Brooks aims to remove intimidation and increase representation on the court
Over 800 people have already participated in BPC programs
Sessions focus on fun, inclusion, and teaching the basics in a judgment-free space
BPC also promotes financial literacy and networking through pickleball
Creating a New Space for the Game
BPC started with a doubt and a paddle. Kayla Brooks, recalling her first impression, admitted her own bias before trying the sport herself.
“Funny enough, a friend was doing a project in an MBA class about pickleball and he was like, ‘We should play.’ And I was guilty, I said it, I said, ‘Black people don’t play pickleball.’” – Kayla Brooks
But the moment she stepped on the court, everything changed. What began as curiosity soon transformed into purpose. Brooks fell in love with the game and decided to create an inclusive path forward for others who might not feel welcomed elsewhere. At the core of BPC is the drive to break down both racial and social barriers around 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
Pickleball With a Purpose
The group’s main offering, “Pick Up and Play,” is more than an introduction—it’s an invitation. BPC makes the sport accessible by simplifying the rules, prioritizing fun, and promoting a non-judgmental atmosphere. The format encourages players to focus less on skill level and more on engagement.
“It is a judgement-free zone!” – Kayla Brooks
By offering guidance and encouragement from the start, BPC ensures that no one feels alone on the court. Brooks believes inclusion starts with visibility and grows with opportunity.
According to estimates cited in the report, just 1 in 12 pickleball players today identifies as Black. BPC is determined to change that, one match at a time.
“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.” – Kayla Brooks
With that challenge in mind, the nonprofit has reached hundreds of players, young and old. From youth programming to sessions for seniors, every BPC event promotes skill-building alongside connection.
Networking Beyond the Net
BPC isn’t just changing who plays—it’s changing how the game is used. In Brooks’ vision, the pickleball court is a place for more than recreation. It’s a space for economic empowerment.
“Black Pickleball & Co. is a community-based organization that teaches pickleball financial literacy to underrepresented communities. We wanted to make sure that people who are Black, African American, underrepresented, that they have the opportunity to be able to engage in such business deals, networking opportunities through playing the sport of pickleball.” – Kayla Brooks
Much like golf in decades past, pickleball is fast becoming a key to business relationships. BPC sees this shift and ensures its players are ready to benefit from it.
From social mixers at Rally Pickleball to community nights at Tipsy Pickle and LABCITY, BPC provides more than practice. It creates a pathway. Players walk in for a lesson and often leave with new connections and confidence.
“I’m even more proud to see the connections that get made that are lasting and transcend the court.” – Kayla Brooks
“My heart is full that they have been a part of our mission to enable them to learn the game.” – Kayla Brooks
News in Brief: Black Pickleball & Co Culture in Charlotte
Black Pickleball & Co. is a Charlotte-based nonprofit introducing pickleball to the Black community through inclusive events, financial education, and social connection. Founded by Kayla Brooks, BPC has welcomed over 800 participants through its judgment-free sessions across local venues. With a focus on accessibility, representation, and empowerment, BPC continues to expand opportunities both on and off the court. Pickleball is proving to be more than a game—it’s a bridge to lasting impact.