
A Thank You Letter to Pickleball, and a Vision for 2026
As I sit down to reflect on this past year, I honestly don’t know where to begin…except with gratitude.
Through pickleball, I’ve met incredible people and formed friendships that I hope will last a lifetime. It’s strengthened my relationship with Maggie. She is quite literally the most amazing person I’ve ever met, and brought me into the lives of her incredible family. As someone who grew up in Colorado, being welcomed into their home and their hearts has meant more to me than I can put into words. They’ve given me a true home away from home, and I’m endlessly thankful for that.
Pickleball has also challenged me.
Starting FUN Pickleball has been harder than I anticipated, and I’m grateful for that too. The challenge has forced me to grow in ways I probably wouldn’t have otherwise. It’s stretched me, humbled me, and reminded me that growth doesn’t come without discomfort.
And that leads me to 2026.
My Goals for 2026
First and foremost, I want to practice more compassion, especially toward myself. Growing up I’ve always had to be the one who pushes myself to be better and I was able to get a lot of my needs met as a kid by being the best at everything I do. Over the years I’ve realized that I’m obviously an imperfect person! I fall short in many ways. I make mistakes. I’m not always going to have fun on the pickleball court, and I’m not always going to have fun in life. But I’m learning that self-compassion is essential if I want to grow into a better partner, friend, coach, and leader.
Another goal for 2026 is to live with more awareness, moment to moment, of where my thoughts are and how I treat the people around me. I want to make sure I’m spreading authentic joy, kindness, and compassion wherever I go. I want to be present. I want to be someone others can lean on. I want to show up for people when they need it.
How I Want to Show Up on the Court
In 2026, I want to deepen my relationships within the pickleball community. I want to take ownership, not just of my own experience, but of the energy I bring to others.
If I have the ability to help someone enjoy this sport…I want to do it.
Looking Ahead
I’m incredibly thankful for the life I get to live, in Southern California, surrounded by an amazing partner, an incredible community, and unforgettable experiences.
As we step into 2026, my hope is simple:
That FUN Pickleball continues to inspire people to come into the sport.
That it becomes a place people turn to when they need joy.
That when someone sees FUN Pickleball, they think:
“That’s a cool company. Those are real people. I feel connected to that.”
And if we can do that, if we can spread even a little more joy, love, and kindness everywhere we go, then we’re doing something right.
Here’s to 2026.
Let’s keep it fun.
— Nick
January 2, 2026