Introducing: Adaptive Pickleball

We have been brainstorming how to build an inclusive environment to assist as many people as possible in the community to enjoy and partake in the game of pickleball.

Today, we are thrilled to announce we have taken that a step further and released our newest offering: the Adaptive Pickleball Academy. This will be an ongoing set of programs for children 5-18 and adults 18+, specifically designed to meet the unique needs of each individual. These programs welcome all players, including those with neurodivergent needs, disabilities, or in need of social support. You can find the full details here.

We are starting off with a 5-week session of summer programs at our Fair Lawn facility, running July 15 - August 15, with programs for age groups: 5-9, 10-13, 13-18, and 18+.

These programs will be taught at the beginner and intermediate level (all together), and led by Paula Southren, a 3.5+ player who has a Masters Degree in Special Education and has been working with kids and adults with a variety of disabilities throughout her life, as well as being a parent to a special needs young adult. Other coaches including Julie, Kevin, and Adam will be helping with these programs, who also have experience in this field.

Part of the inspiration for these programs came from Aaron’s mother, Lisa Kolton, who has spent her life as a social worker specializing with the elderly as well as individuals with disabilities. Our inspiration also came from simply thinking about how we can expose as many people as possible to this incredible sport.

Here are some specific aspects of what makes our programs ADAPTIVE and INCLUSIVE:

• Programs are specifically tailored to children and adults with disabilities led by coaches with years of special education experience.

• We provide small coach-player ratios with individualized attention (max of 1 to 3).

• We incorporate a sensory friendly area for those who need.

• We welcome all alternative communication devices.

Full details and signups for our Adaptive Pickleball Academy can be found here.

We are looking forward to furthering our mission of spreading pickleball to as many players as possible, providing a home for players of ALL abilities and disabilities, and doing our part to try and grow this incredible sport.