Veterans Program

Veterans on the Court!

The goal of the program is to spread Pickleball throughout Ukraine by engaging veterans, their families, and their friends in the game. This will not only support physical rehabilitation and improve the quality of life for veterans, but also enhance mental health, social interaction, integration, and the building of strong relationships within society — helping veterans return to active life.

The project includes the creation of playing courts, provision of necessary equipment and training materials, involvement of coaches, organization of tournaments, and collaboration with rehabilitation centers. These efforts aim to make Pickleball accessible to all veterans, regardless of gender, age, or physical and mental condition.

Benefits of Pickleball for Veterans

Pickleball helps improve coordination, balance, and mobility.
Regular training promotes the development of endurance and strength.
The dynamic yet low-impact nature of the movements makes it accessible even for veterans with injuries.

Team play strengthens friendships and promotes social integration.

Improves mood and helps combat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) through focus on the game and interaction with teammates.

Getting out of isolation and connecting with like-minded individuals supports emotional recovery.

Suitable for veterans with amputations as well as those who use wheelchairs.

Intensity can be adjusted—allowing for both competitive and recreational play.

The game requires strategic thinking, quick decision-making, and concentration.

Regular play helps reduce the risk of age-related cognitive disorders.

The game does not require expensive gear or special courts—it can be played indoors or outdoors.

Easy-to-learn rules allow veterans to quickly adapt to the game.

Participation in tournaments and competitions gives veterans the opportunity to set new goals and feel a sense of purpose.

Veterans can become mentors to others, spreading the culture of pickleball among their fellow servicemen and women.

Easy rules make it possible for veterans to get involved quickly and confidently.

Locations

Adaptive Pickleball (Free Training):

Pickleball for Everyone

Ryan Anthony is a pioneer in adaptive pickleball, demonstrating that passion and perseverance can overcome barriers. Born in Bogotá, Colombia, he was adopted and raised in the United States, where he turned personal challenges into a mission to make sports more inclusive. After discovering Pickleball in 2019, he quickly became a certified coach and international player. In 2024, he made history by representing Colombia at the World Cup in Peru, where he won gold in the singles category and silver in the doubles category of Wheelchair Pickleball.

Beyond competing, Anthony is dedicated to the global development of adaptive Pickleball. As the first adaptive Pickleball coach, he advocates for accessibility in the sport, ensuring equal opportunities for players regardless of physical ability.

Through his platform @pickleballonwheels, Anthony continues to inspire — proving that Pickleball is truly a sport for everyone. His journey is a testament to the power of sports in fostering inclusivity, resilience, and a sense of community.