Your Game Called. It Wants a Vacation.

Drills to do anywhere, a dreamy Caribbean court, and the paddle we’re not putting down.

Author

Empower Pickleball
April 10, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 9 minutes

Between the snow, wind, and general chaos of spring (ugh, allergies!), I haven’t touch an outdoor court in days. Instead, I’ve been holed up deep in travel research mode, because if I can’t play outside, I’m at least going to daydream about doing it somewhere warm, with palm trees and perfect dinks.

And… I know most of you are like me, just hoping for a miracle when the weather doesn’t cooperate. Feel that on a deep level. Still, I’ve managed to celebrate National Pickleball Month in my own way:

  • Bought a new paddle I definitely didn’t need

  • Snuck in a few garage drills to “test it out”

  • Spent an embarrassing amount of time watching RV tour videos and planning future tournaments I may or may not actually attend

If you’re in the same boat (or snow globe), we’ve got you. This issue is full of ways to stay connected to the game, even if you’re stuck inside.

TIPS & TRICKS

No Court? No Problem

Rained out? Traveling? Gym packed? You can still keep your skills sharp. These 8 easy, off-court drills help you build muscle memory, footwork, and paddle control—all from the comfort of your living room, driveway, or wherever you’ve got a bit of space. No net, no problem.


💡 Why It Matters: Because you don’t need a court to get better. These drills are proof that consistency beats convenience. Add one (or three) to your routine and show up stronger next time you hit the court.

TRAVEL

One Match Away from Moving Here

While most of us are still wrapped in fleece and dodging April snow flurries, Antigua is serving 80° sunshine, ocean views, and courts that make you wonder why you don’t live there. From converted tennis courts to villa setups with portable nets, it’s got just enough pickleball to justify the trip (and the sunscreen haul).


💡 Why It Matters: Because sunshine, fresh seafood, and ocean-view courts > your usual gym rotation. If you’re dreaming of your next getaway, consider this your sign.

COMMUNITY

Pro Pickleball, Two Kids & One 40-Foot RV

Megan Fudge and Ryler DeHeart aren’t just pros on the court—they’re full-time RV travelers raising two kids, wrangling two dogs, and chasing medals across the country. Between sunrise training sessions, homeschool Zooms, and tournament weekends, they've built a life that’s anything but conventional. And somehow, they make it all look… doable.


💡 Why It Matters: Because their story is a reminder that there's no “right” way to chase your goals. Whether you’re a parent, a player, or somewhere in between, you’ll find something relatable in this pickleball-powered road trip.

GEAR

Paddle Tested: Volair CTRL 2 Forza

Looking for a paddle that plays with you, not against you? The CTRL 2 Forza puts control and feel front and center. Made with aramid fiber (yep, the good stuff), it’s responsive, stable, and forgiving at every level.


💡 Why It Matters: It’s easy to use, hard to outgrow. If you want a paddle that builds confidence and keeps up as your game evolves, this one’s got the goods.

  • Ree Drummond Plays Her First Pickleball Game—with Baby Sofia Watching 👶 The Pioneer Woman hit the court for the first time alongside her daughter, son-in-law, and… a stroller-bound 3-month-old. With dogs dodging paddles and grandma jokes flying, Ree’s Instagram video is a chaotic, wholesome gem.

  • Carrie Coon Says White Lotus Cut a Whole Pickleball Monologue 🎬 Turns out Season 3 could’ve served up more than just drama. According to Carrie Coon, a full-on pickleball monologue by Leslie Bibb got axed during editing. Prestige TV? Maybe. Prestige pickleball? Not yet.

  • Agassi Open Play Day Aims to Set Pickleball Participation Record 🌍 On April 12, Life Time clubs across North America will host the first-ever Agassi Open Play Day, inviting thousands to hit the courts at the same time. With Andre Agassi himself leading play in Nevada, it’s shaping up to be one of the largest coordinated pickleball events yet.

The Drink That Has Me in a Chokehold

I’m fully obsessed with Unwell… Like, can’t-get-through-a-day-without-it levels of hooked. It’s become my go-to for basically everything: a morning kickstart, a pre-game boost, mid-pickleball hydration. My faves? Strawberry and Mango Citrus. Still trying to get my hands on the Kiwi Pineapple one, but… IYKYK 👀

It’s a little salty at first, but it grows on you… and it’s packed with electrolytes, B vitamins, and a gentle caffeine buzz that just works. You can grab cases on Amazon, which is exactly where I’m headed the second I run low.

Final thoughts: this drink is Unwell, and so am I (without it).

This one’s for the travel-lovers, road-tripped, and rec players who somehow stumbled upon a court in the middle of nowhere:

What’s the most unexpected or unforgettable place you’ve ever played pickleball?

It could be a well-known resort or a random court behind a gas station in the desert — we want to hear it. Bonus points for sending a photo. 📸 Reply to this email or DM us on Instagram to spill the tea!