Getting Targeted? Good. Here’s Your Advantage.

Community stories, game-tested tips, and gear we can’t stop talking about—this week’s drop has it all.

Author

Empower Pickleball
October 23, 2025

Well, it’s getting colder in my neck of the woods, which means it’s either bundle-up season or time to head indoors. Luckily, a brand-new spot just opened near me—LevelUp Pickleball Club, south of Pittsburgh. If the name sounds familiar, it should. It’s run by the same team behind the #1 pickleball camp—LevelUp Pickleball Camps, and wow, they did not hold back.

We’re talking 16 indoor courts, a 7-layer US Open-style surface, locker rooms, a full bar and restaurant, and even an outdoor area. Their open house last week was packed, and it’s hard not to get excited about having another high-quality place to play—especially when good courts are tough to find. I think that makes four indoor facilities around here now… though the closest one’s still a 30-minute drive away.

And since we’re talking new place, new gear, and the people making it all happen—let’s get into this week’s stories.

TIPS & TRICKS

Targeted? Good. That’s Where the Power Starts

In mixed doubles, it’s almost guaranteed the woman gets targeted. Opponents drive balls at you, dink at you, and try to throw you off balance. But great players use that pressure to their advantage—staying calm, resetting hard drives, and turning defense into offense.

A composed defender can dictate the point without swinging harder. Soft hands, smart footwork, and steady communication keep you in control when the heat’s on. The more you practice anticipating shots and hold your positioning, the more confident you become under fire.


💡 Why It Matters: When you can absorb pressure and respond with precision, you’re not the target—you’re the player who controls the match.

PICKLEBALL GUIDE

Your Pickleball People Are Out There

Finding your place in pickleball can take time—especially if you’re searching for a women’s league that fits your level and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for organized play or casual meetups, the right community is closer than you think. And if it doesn’t exist yet? You can create it.

Where to Start:

  • Local Hubs: Check parks, YMCAs, and indoor venues for women’s play.

  • Online Tools: Use Pickleheads, PicklePlay, or Meetup to spot open games.

  • Social Reach: Search Facebook or Nextdoor for local groups and leagues.

  • DIY Option: Pick a time, post it, and invite players—consistency builds community.


💡 Why It Matters: A league isn’t just where you play; it’s who you play with.

PICKLEBALL GEAR

Why Pickleball Warehouse Might Be Your New Favorite Gear Shop

If scrolling paddle options feels like online dating—too many choices, not enough clarity—Pickleball Warehouse is the matchmaker you’ve been looking for. It’s a one-stop shop for paddles, shows, apparel, and accessories, run by players who actually know the game.

Free shipping, 90-day returns, a 30-day paddle guarantee, and a constantly updated Bargain Bin make it the Costco of pickleball gear—minus the crowds. If you’re looking for the latest Joola drop or a paddle that fits your play style, it’s made for people who live on the court.


💡 Why It Matters: Great gear shouldn’t feel complicated. Pickleball Warehouse gets you what you need—fast, friendly, and from people who actually play.

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT

One Player’s Passion Just Transformed a Town’s Pickleball Scene

When Kim Prough first picked up a paddle, she wasn’t trying to run anything. She just wanted to play. Now, she’s leading South Hadley’s charge for better courts, new clinics, and a more inclusive local pickleball scene. Her advocacy helped secure a USA Pickleball “Play It Forward” grant, proving that one person’s passion can ripple through an entire town.


💡 Why It Matters: The game grows when players turn love of play into action—and Kim’s story is proof that local leadership can change a community.

  • PickleRage Earns Global Recognition 🏆 PickleRage just won a 2025 Global Recognition Award for leadership and innovation, spotlighting its high-tech courts, noise-reducing design, and community-first approach.

  • Johnny Pickles Plays for a Cause 🦃 Delaware’s own Johnny Pickles is taking on a 24-hour pickleball marathon at Dill Dinkers to raise money for the Food Bank of Delaware’s Holiday Turkey Drive.

  • ‘Dink for Pink’ Returns to ASU 🎀 Angelo State University’s third annual Dink for Pink is back, bringing players together for a day of pickleball, tennis, and support for breast cancer awareness.

A Pickleball Shoe Built for Pickleball

Running shoes? Tennis shoes? Forget it. The Winners Edge P-38 Lightning was designed only for pickleball—tested by pros, vetted by a podiatrist, and already making its way onto podiums.

Players who’ve switched say the grip feels unreal, the stability has saved them from ankle rolls, and the cushioning keeps knees and joints happier. At $150, it’s a premium shoe, but one made to keep you confident and comfortable every time you step on the court.

Use code EMPOWER at checkout for 15% off.

This Week on Keeping It Real with Gina & Neil

It shouldn’t have to be said, but here we are. In this episode, Gina and Neil talk all things on-court etiquette—from open gates and body bags to the lost art of the paddle tap. It’s a light reality check for anyone who’s forgotten that pickleball is supposed to be fun and respectful.

📺 Watch it on YouTube
🎙️ Listen on Apple Podcasts or Spotify

The Country Club of Pickleball Apparel (and We’re Not Mad About It)

You know the phrase look good, feel good? Yeah—no matter the sport, I live by it. When I’m golfing, it’s Bad Birdie or Travis Matthew. On the pickleball court? I want that same luxury feel, and J. Pritchard has me in a chokehold.

It’s sleek, sporty, and yes, a little boarding-school-core—but the quality makes up for the price tag. Designed specifically for pickleball, their collections bridge performance and post-match polish. Dresses, shirts, skirts—everything looks like it was made for center court and the cocktail after.