The Real Glow-Up: SPF + Stacking Tips

Smarter movement, better sun habits, and one unforgettable story—this week’s lineup might be just what you need, on and off the court.

Author

Empower Pickleball
May 22, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 8 minutes

Still rainy. Still chilly. Still showing up. ☁️
If you’re in the Northeast like us, you’ve probably considered a kitchen remodel just to turn it into a pickleball court. But even with the gloomy skies, we’re leaning into what matters, especially this month.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we know someone reading this might need the reminder: you’re not alone, you’re not behind, and you don’t have to push through everything in silence. Whatever you’re carrying, we see you.

We’re also keeping things moving on our podcast and just started dropping product reviews on our YouTube channel. Scroll down to find this week’s episode (and a proud son moment you don’t want to miss). Some of our team is heading to APP NYC, fingers crossed the sun decides to join us. 🤞 

TIPS & TRICKS

Stack Smart, Win More

You’ve got the basics down—now it’s time to get intentional. Neil breaks down tactical moves and smart positioning that can shift the court in your favor. In this breakdown, we’re talking:

  • How and when to stack for max impact

  • Smarter transitions through the midcourt

  • Kitchen tactics to control the rally


💡 Why It Matters: Because tight teamwork and clean court coverage win matches.

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Too Hot to Handle (Without SPF)

We’ve already got your hydration strategy down, but summer sun is a beast of its own. Whether you’re logging long tournament days or just hitting open play, protecting your skin, eyes, and energy matters. This guide covers:

  • How much sunscreen you actually need (hint: it’s more than you think)

  • The best gear for blocking rays without overheating

  • Why your eyes needs protection too (yes, even in doubles)

  • Smart recovery habits to help your body bounce back


💡 Why It Matters: Sun protection is performance protection.

COMMUNITY

Smiley Riley Has the Best Job in Pickleball

After a 21-year marriage ended, Riley leaned on her pickleball community and found a second act; one filled with laughter, community, and more than 3,300 students coached across the U.S. What began as a coping mechanism became a calling, leading her from public courts to private retreats, and eventually, to floating pickleball games on the Adriatic. Now known as Smiley Riley, she’s spreading joy, connection, and a fresh take on what this sport can offer, on and off the court.


💡 Why It Matters: Because sometimes the most powerful comeback stories start with a paddle.

  • Churches Catch the Pickleball Bug ⛪️ From Illinois to Massachusetts, churches are turning gyms into pickleball courts, and communities are showing up in droves.

  • 36 Hours. 143 Games. 1 World Record. ⏱️ Sioux Falls’ Geneva Olson and her crew smashed the pickleball endurance record, raising $23K for mental health support in the process.

  • Pickleball Megaclub Coming to Atlanta 🏗️The country’s largest indoor pickleball facility is set to open in a converted 100K sq. ft. warehouse—with 30+ courts, a gym, golf sims, a bar, and more.

  • Kamryn Gets Real About Mental Health 🧠 In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month, Kamryn Blackwood shares why showing up for yourself (and others) matters, on and off the court.

Take CTRL of Your Game

Looking for a paddle with power, spin, and control that matches your energy? Meet the CTRL 2 Forza from Volair. Built with aramid fiber (yep, the stuff used in aerospace and body armor), it’s lightweight, durable, and seriously responsive.

Flexible and forgiving, the CTRL 2 Forza delivers top-tier performance without sacrificing comfort, and it looks sharp too. If you’re ready to invest in your game, this is the one.

I Already Loved Supergoop—Then They Made This

I use Supergoop every day, but this new SPF stick might be my favorite thing they’ve launched yet. It goes on clear, doesn’t melt all over your bag, and actually makes it easy to reapply mid-match—no greasy hands, no excuses. The teardrop shape is weirdly satisfying and perfect for swiping those hard-to-reach spots. This one’s coming with me to every open play from here on out.

This Week on Keeping It Real with Gina & Neil

They’re back from the US Open with stories. In Episode 2, Neil reflects on watching his dad win gold (yep, full proud son moment), runs into some tennis legends, and shares what made this year feel different. Gina talks Women’s Doubles, the heat, and the behind-the-scenes energy at East Naples.

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