The St. James Pickleball Association (SJPA) started teaching pickleball to students at the Southport Elementary School two years ago. The kids were engaged and enthusiastic from the beginning, and now, they get very excited when they see the pickleball nets set up in the gym because they know what the day’s event is going to be.
Because of this success, the program is being expanded to include the South Brunswick Middle School in Southport. To help start the middle school program, the SJPA donated 20 “gently” used paddles and 20 new pickleballs. SJPA member Holly Ahrens personally donated 15 “gently” used pickleballs.
The elementary school’s paddles needed new grips, having gotten some good use over the last two years. Kim Mihan, St. James’ Pickleball Pro, donated grips, and Rick Norton, SJPA member, re-gripped the paddles.
Courtney Nix, Southport Elementary P.E. teacher, was thrilled to receive these donations. She loves working with the kids on pickleball and has seen the sport being enjoyed by kids of any athletic ability.
SJPA members who help teach enjoy working with the kids and love to see them “get it” and have fun! The SJPA is looking forward to the next time we join the kids for some pickleball fun!
