USA Pickleball backs PHIT America’s new program to introduce Pickleball to thousands of children

PHIT America, a national charity, has announced the launch of a new sports program, PLAY PICKLEBALL, which will be introduced to elementary schools in the US in the spring of 2023. The program is part of PHIT’s existing physical activity offerings, which include the PLAY TENNIS, PLAY GOLF and AMPED Running/Walking programs. The PLAY PICKLEBALL program will feature a complete equipment kit, curriculum provided by USA Pickleball and various training aids including 24 paddles, 30 indoor balls, 30 foam balls, a high-quality net and EZ Scan Fitness Tracking. Additionally, PHIT America will award three schools with an installed multi-court playing surface in 2023.

Jim Baugh, Founder of PHIT America, says that PLAY PICKLEBALL was created in response to requests from physical education teachers who have shown interest in the sport. Baugh believes that introducing children to pickleball, which is the fastest-growing sport in the US, will provide them with the opportunity to learn lifetime sports such as tennis, golf and now pickleball. Hope Tolley, Managing Director of Recreational Programs for USA Pickleball, added that USA Pickleball is proud to support PHIT America’s new initiative.

Elementary schools can apply for the program and interested individuals and companies can support the program by contacting Jim Baugh at [email protected]. PHIT America aims to ship more than 100 kits to schools in 2023, with the possibility of more if additional support is provided. Matt Manasse, known as the “Pickleball Coach of the Stars,” has expressed his support for PHIT America, stating that the charity is improving the health of thousands of children across the country while introducing them to pickleball with a great kit and school program. He encourages the pickleball industry to support the charity.

Baugh adds that supporting PHIT America means children will have the best learning experience while being physically active, which will result in healthier, smarter and happier kids. He encourages companies and organizations to support the program, stating that pickleball is accessible to many youth and that supporting the charity will grow the sport while benefiting children’s health.

https://usapickleball.org/news/usa-pickleball-supports-phit-americas-initiative-to-introduce-pickleball-to-thousands-of-children/