Pickleball Gold Medalists Emergency Preparedness: AED.US and Philips have teamed up to make pickleball courts safer by placing the Philips HeartStart OnSite AED (automated external defibrillator) at Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour events and facilities across the United States. This effort responds to rising health concerns as pickleball grows in popularity among players of all ages. The goal is to help save lives if a cardiac emergency happens during a match.
Preparing for Emergencies on the Court
Martin Robertson and Chris Robertson, firefighter brothers and gold medal winners at the 2025 World Police & Fire Games, shared why it’s important to have AEDs available courtside. They have seen how quick action can make a big difference in emergencies.
According to Martin Robertson, acting fast is key:
“Call 911. That’s the most important thing you can do.”
After calling emergency services, people should check if the person is breathing or has a pulse. If not, they must begin CPR and use an AED.
“Hopefully they [pickleball facility] have an AED,” Martin Robertson adds. “They are very user-friendly. Just pull the pads out, follow the diagrams, and listen to the voice instructions.”
Chris Robertson says staying calm helps:
“If you’re going to need help with an AED, just shout for a bystander. Remain calm and follow the instructions. Whoever’s doing chest compressions should keep going until first responders arrive.”
Why Every Pickleball Facility Needs an AED
Pickleball involves players of all ages, including some with hidden heart issues. Even people who appear healthy can face sudden heart problems during physical activity.
Chris Robertson explains the risk:
“Pickleball is super popular. There are all different kinds of ages and people playing. A lot of them may disregard health conditions or overestimate their fitness level because the game is so fun.”
Martin Robertson adds:
“Anytime you’re getting a lot of people together, and then add in an active, cardiovascular sport, having an AED on hand is paramount.”
Even if a facility hasn’t used an AED yet, it could become necessary at any time. Martin Robertson shared:
“That doesn’t mean it can’t happen, and it most likely will. Having the AED there, plus CPR, is what’s ultimately going to save lives.”
Chris Robertson agrees:
“An AED can really help the situation. If there’s someone trained, or even just willing to act, it could absolutely be a difference-maker.”
A Strong Message to Pickleball Facilities
Both Martin Robertson and Chris Robertson urge all pickleball centers to be ready for emergencies.
Martin Robertson’s advice is clear:
“Get one. You don’t want to be that facility that didn’t have an AED if something happens on your watch.”
Chris Robertson warns against ignoring the risk:
“Pickleball isn’t just for athletes. It’s for everyone, and that means all kinds of health conditions on the court. The risk is real.”
Learn CPR and Be Ready to Help
People don’t need to be firefighters to save lives. Taking a CPR class and knowing how to use an AED can prepare anyone to respond in a crisis.
Martin Robertson encourages the public:
“Take a CPR class. You never know when you’ll need it. It could save a life on a regular afternoon while you’re out having lunch with your kids.”
Chris Robertson reminds everyone to stay alert:
“Be a first responder, on and off the court, at all times. Someone’s life could be in your hands.”
News in Brief: Pickleball Gold Medalists Emergency Preparedness
AED.US and Philips are placing AEDs at PPA Tour events to prevent deaths from cardiac emergencies during pickleball matches. Firefighter brothers Martin and Chris Robertson stress that fast CPR and AED use can save lives. They urge all pickleball facilities to be prepared before a crisis happens.
ALSO READ: PPA Tour Australia: George Wall and Joseph Wild Win Pro Men’s Doubles in Brisbane