WHAZZ APP ? NEED TO FIND A PICKLEBALL COURT ? THERE ARE APPS FOR THAT .
By Ernie Ortiz
With the growth of pickleball moving at the speed of light , it ’ s no wonder technology is moving along with it . At the time of this article , there are currently 94 pickleball apps on the main platforms .
As the sport grows , so does the demand for courts . Here are a couple of apps that will help you find places to play .
USA Pickleball ’ s Places2Play app is one that seems to keep up with growing demand of users . This app probably has the most up-to-date court locator in your area . The app is simple to use and gives important information such as how many courts and the specific type , how many players available to play , the days they play , as well as the contact information for the play coordinator in that area . Other apps often use a link to Places2Play . Many apps struggle to keep up with user demand , but Places2Play is the most current and ready for your pickleball game .
Other apps to try are PicklePlay and Pickleball +. •
PICKLEBALL RALLIES FOR HOMELESS KIDS
By Kerri Furey
Even the most successful nonprofits can find themselves in a bit of a pickle when it comes to fundraising : How can we re-energize an existing base of supporters , and attract new people to engage with the mission ? ForKids is a regional organization in Virginia that helps children and families break the cycle of homelessness and find permanent pathways out of poverty , and its answer was the fastest-growing sport in America . “ We knew this was the game that would help us up our game ,” said Kim Fink , past board president . After adding a roundrobin style pickleball tournament to the organization ’ s annual “ Field Day ” fundraiser three years ago , sign-ups for the friendly game with a silly name quickly outpaced the other events . “ Pickleball is a community game ,” explained Fink . “ It is that sense of energy and joy and laughter — and people are having the best time acting like kids to help our kids .” •
Supporters of ForKids used their paddles with purpose at the recent “ Field Day ” fundraiser at the Cedar Point Club in Suffolk , Virginia .
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2022 | MAGAZINE 11