Can’t Stop Thinking About Court Time

If you’re also staring out the window wondering if spring forgot your zip code… same. The courts might still be chilly, but we’re choosing to believe in Friday’s forecast here and emotionally packing for an 80-degree weekend.

I’ve been thinking about how public courts can turn total strangers into regulars. A few drop shots, a quick chat, and suddenly you’ve got group texts, meetups, and people who save you a spot in the rotation. It’s that kind of low-key magic that keeps us showing up, and the reason we’re so grateful for this growing little community.

So, thank you, by the way. Empower Pickleball turned six months old recently, and the fact that you’re here, reading this, means everything.

TIPS & TRICKS

Control the Chaos, Win the Point

It’s easy to get caught swinging when everything speeds up… until you realize the smartest move isn’t to fight back, but to reset. A good reset slows the pace, shifts the pressure, and brings the point back to you. Less flailing, more finesse. Here's how to stay patient, read the paddle, and take back the tempo when everything feels like it’s moving at 100 mph.

💡 Why It Matters: Knowing when (and how) to reset is what turns scrappy rallies into smart wins.

TRAVEL

Sun. Sand. Pickleball. Repeat.

A dreamy Sandals resort, drills with Neil Friedenberg, zero responsibilities, and just enough open play to keep your skills sharp and your stress low. This Turks & Caicos getaway is for anyone who’s ever said, “I just need a break… and maybe a little pickleball while I’m at it.”

💡 Why It Matters: Because a good vacation should come with sunshine, snacks, and a perfect drop shot.

COMMUNITY

Where the Best Games Happen by Accident

From DIY lines and trunk nets to multi-court hubs packed before sunrise, public parks have quietly become some of the most meaningful places to play. They’re free, familiar, and often full of regulars who feel like instant friends. Whether you're traveling for work or just finding your local scene, there’s a good chance the best game in town is happening right next to a jungle gym.

💡 Why It Matters: Because the most memorable games don’t always happen at the fancy facilities.

• 1,000+ Players Hit the Courts in Honolulu 🌺 The Hawaii Pacific Health ESPN Honolulu Open brought major energy (and 38 courts) to the convention center for the state’s biggest tournament yet. With international players and locals teaming up, the island vibes were matched only by the level of play.

• Pickleball > Golf for Business Deals? 💼 Bloomberg says more companies are ditching the golf course and heading to the courts—pickleball is cheaper, quicker, and apparently just as good for sealing the deal.

• NFL Tight End Talks Big Pickleball Game 🏈 Packers’ Tucker Kraft says he’ll drop shot a 90-year-old if he has to—he’s only been playing for a few months, but the confidence? Unmatched.

Apparently I Did Need Another Stanley

And obviously, that meant accessorizing. I found the cutest pickleball straw topper set on Amazon… and it comes with four different toppers and two keychains. They fit my 40 oz perfectly, keeps the dust out, and now no one’s accidentally sipping my electrolyte mix.

Bonus: the keychains are totally unnecessary and absolutely adorable, so naturally, I’m obsessed.

Let’s talk off-court habits.

We know you play, but how much do you think about pickleball when you’re not on the court?

• May 7-11: APP Vlasic Classic – Cincinnati

• May 12-18: PPA Atlanta Pickleball Championships

• May 20-25: APP New York City Open

• June 4-7: National Junior Pickleball Utah Regional

• June 16-22: PPA Orange County Cup

• July 16-19: National Junior Pickleball Idaho Regional

• August 1-4: PickleCon