Small Changes That Can Seriously Boost The Game

Smarter reads, better recovery, and where inclusion still has work to do.

Author

Empower Pickleball
June 12, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 8 minutes

As you’re reading this, I’m offically off the court and fully leaning into beach mode. No paddles, no nets, just sunscreen, snacks, and pretending my tote bag isn’t absurdly overpacked.

Still, even with the sand between my toes, I keep thinking about what makes this sport different. Pickleball for all isn’t just something we say because it sounds good. The people, the programs, and stories in this week’s lineup show what happens when we actually mean it.

TIPS & TRICKS

How to Read Your Opponent (& Win More Points)

Ever feel like you’re just a half-step behind? The difference usually isn’t speed, but awareness. The best players aren’t guessing; they’re constantly reading subtle cues and predicting what’s coming next. Neil breaks down exactly what to watch for so you can slow the game down and take control.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

  • How paddle angle predicts soft vs. fast shots

  • Why their feet tell you where the ball’s going

  • Common habits based on sports backgrounds

  • The “paddle magnet” trick to sharpen your reactions


💡 Why It Matters: If you know what’s coming, you don’t have to react. You’ll already be in position to win the point.

INSIGHTS

Who’s Really Getting Access to the Court?

The smaller courts and flexible rules make pickleball one of the most adaptable sports out there, but real inclusion still takes work. From accessible court design to the cost of equipment and travel, adaptive players face barriers many never think about. Taylor Nichols, Jordan Pintar, and others share what’s working, what still needs to change, and how small adjustments can open the door for more families, athletes, and communities.


💡 Why It Matters: The game only works for everyone if we keep making space for everyone.

COMMUNITY

Growing the Game with Visibility and Belonging

For Sarah Ansboury, it started with finding her place. Megan Charity is creating spaces like Rally Pickleball and Queer Pickles where LGBTQ+ players feel welcome from the start. Lee Whitwell leads programs like Game ChangeHER that give women opportunities to play, connect, and build friendships at every stage of life. From grassroots leagues to pro tours, queer women are shaping the future of pickleball and pushing inclusion forward.


💡 Why It Matters: Community happens because people are intentional about creating it.

  • Pickleball Fights Hunger 🥒 A Knoxville tournament raised funds to provide over 360,000 meals through Second Harvest Food Bank of East Tennessee.

  • Stars Hit the Court 🎾 Max hosted a celebrity pickleball Paddle Royale at Venice Beach with stars from Hacks and The Pitt, plus surprise cameos by Andy Roddick and Terrell Owens.

  • Pickleball Goes Behind the Scenes 🎥 A new documentary following a pro tour is in the works, giving fans a closer look at the players, stories, and life on tour. Release details still TBD.

  • Avoid These Pickleball Footwear Mistakes 👟 Running shoes? Worn-out soles? Weak arch support? We break down the biggest mistakes players make with their shoes and how insoles like VKTRY can help keep you pain-free on the court.

Step Up Your Game (& Stay Comfortable Doing It)

There’s nothing worse than feeling weighed down or worn out mid-match. The FreshShot from Acacia Pickleball was built for players who stay all-in from first serve to last rally: wider fit, plush CloudGel cushioning, and extra durability in all the right places. Fresh colors, breathable design, and grip that keeps you moving.

Find your next favorite pair right here.

This Week on Keeping It Real with Gina & Neil

Gina breaks down her undefeated run at the NPL stop in LA, from format changes to team dynamics. Neil shares his time coaching with Suncoast Pickleball in the North Carolina mountains: drills, dorms, and plenty of bonding with fellow coaches.

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

The Spray That Lives in My Pickleball Bag

An esthetician first told me about hypochlorous acid years ago after she left the gym without time to wash her face. Now Magic Molecule has a permanent spot in my pickleball bag. The hypochlorous acid (basically what your body already makes to help skin heal) calms breakouts, irritation, and that post-pickleball redness we all pretend isn’t happening. Between sunscreen, sweat, and dust after long outdoor sessions, a few spritzes make a huge difference. It’s gentle, no sting, and way more effective than most of the “miracle” sprays I’ve tried.