In honor of Selkirk Sport's 10-year anniversary, we’re spotlighting some of the most meaningful charitable moments of the last decade driven by our Growth Program and Advocate network.
Over the past decade, the Selkirk community has helped grow the game of pickleball through its mission to increase access for all.
Through equipment donations, lessons, and outreach, Selkirk has provided more than 25,000 paddles to those in need, with the help of 1,300 Advocates in 49 states. From first responders and nonprofits to schools and underserved communities, these efforts have created lasting change.
Let’s look back at 10 standout moments from the last decade.
1. Bringing pickleball programming to prison facilities
Selkirk Advocate Roger BelAir took the initiative to introduce pickleball to inmates, offering a positive outlet for physical activity and mental health. This program, which he has now installed in more than 18 prisons, has brought meaningful change by fostering teamwork and self-discipline among participants.
2. Pickleball spreads joy in Africa
Through the Growth Program, Selkirk sent equipment to Africa, where students learned to play pickleball for the first time. The initiative spread the sport to underserved areas, with local schools embracing the game as part of their physical education curriculum.
3. Advocates supporting food-insecure communities
One standout Advocate, Jonathan Stone, combined his passion for pickleball with a commitment to fighting hunger. Throughout the pandemic, Stone’s efforts led to the donation of 40 million pounds of food throughout the pandemic.
4. Encouraging growth among Black and brown communities
The Pickleballin’ Lifestyle Club is building an inclusive space, encouraging participation from Black and brown communities throughout Atlanta and Miami. More than 200 people participate in the club, which meets several times a week for pickleball and other social activities.
5. Using a wheelchair unlocks one Advocate’s competitive spirit
Michael Lipp, an Advocate and passionate competitor, discovered his competitive edge through wheelchair pickleball. Lipp strives to teach others that pickleball is truly a sport for everyone, regardless of physical ability.
6. Helle Sparre’s quest to grow pickleball around the world
Helle Sparre, a renowned pickleball player and former professional tennis player, has embarked on a global mission to expand the sport of pickleball. From teaching clinics in remote communities to mentoring new players internationally, Sparre hopes to make pickleball a sport loved around the world.
7. Selkirk and Aloha Pickleball bring joy to Maui’s Bravehearts
After devastating wildfires in Maui, Selkirk teamed up with Aloha Pickleball to provide relief through the game of pickleball. Together, the organizations donated pickleball equipment to all 10 of the island’s fire stations, allowing the firefighters to unwind and regroup in between calls for service.
8. Scott Rider’s inspiring journey through pickleball and Parkinson’s
Scott Rider, a Selkirk Advocate, has turned to pickleball as part of his fight against Parkinson’s disease. His persistence on the court, combined with his advocacy work, inspires others living with neurological challenges to stay active and optimistic through the sport.
9. The Pickleball Pilot’s adventure across 48 states
Dean Matt, also known as the “Pickleball Pilot” embarked on a whirlwind journey, playing pickleball in all 48 contiguous U.S. states in record time. Sponsored by Selkirk, Matt flew his own plane on a course throughout the country, playing a game at each stop, highlighting how pickleball connects people nationwide.
10. Junior Advocate triumphs over brain surgery and thrives on the pickleball court
A young Selkirk Advocate has turned personal hardship into triumph after overcoming childhood brain surgery. Now thriving on the pickleball court, Carson Jones channels the same resilience to inspire others, showing that determination and love for the game can overcome any obstacle.
