PickleCon Inclusive Pickleball Clinics: PickleCon, the popular pickleball event in Kansas City this weekend, is working to include everyone. The Beautiful Lives Project, an organization that helps people with disabilities join in activities, is holding special clinics to introduce pickleball to those with visual impairments and other challenges.
Helping New Players Get Started
The Beautiful Lives Project is offering clinics today and tomorrow at PickleCon to teach people with disabilities how to play pickleball. Tony Gionfriddo, Executive Director of the Beautiful Lives Project, said, “You give them the opportunity and they’ll continue doing it and doing it. That’s our main goal.” Gionfriddo played alongside Areina Ortiz, who had never played before. He said, “She had never played before, and you see her now… she’s doing great. She’s having a great time doing it. Nothing but smiles.” Ortiz shared that trying something new is about having fun and getting out there to enjoy yourself.
Events Planned Throughout the Weekend
The Beautiful Lives Project will continue to be active at PickleCon throughout the weekend. They will hold another pickleball clinic on Friday and host a 50/50 raffle drawing on Saturday to raise awareness and support their mission.
This effort helps ensure that pickleball is a sport everyone can enjoy, regardless of ability.
News in Brief: PickleCon Inclusive Pickleball Clinics
The Beautiful Lives Project is hosting clinics at PickleCon in Kansas City to help people with disabilities learn pickleball. Executive Director Tony Gionfriddo highlights the joy and confidence participants gain. Clinics continue Friday, with a raffle planned for Saturday to support the cause.
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