On Saturday, May 17, 2025, JOOLA proudly joined forces with YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase to celebrate Paddles with a Purpose, the official launch of our new partnership with the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington — and what a celebration it was!

Nearly 100 enthusiastic attendees, including players, JOOLA team members, YMCA staff, and community supporters, gathered for a fun-filled day dedicated to the sport we love and the values we share: community, access, and excellence.

Dedication of Richard Lee Court

The highlight of the day was the ribbon-cutting ceremony and the dedication of the all-new Richard Lee Court. Named in honor of JOOLA CEO Richard Lee — who got his start playing pickleball right at this very YMCA — the court stands as a tribute to the power of community and the journey from local roots to global impact.

"Before launching JOOLA Pickleball, my introduction to this amazing sport started with a few pickleball lessons at my YMCA in Maryland," said Richard Lee, CEO & Owner of JOOLA. "Now, as JOOLA has become a global leader in pickleball, I have the incredible opportunity to give back to the very community that helped me learn how to play this wonderful game." 

Richard’s story is emblematic of JOOLA’s mission: to grow the sport while staying grounded in the communities that inspire us. His journey from recreational player to the helm of one of the world’s leading pickleball brands is now permanently etched into YMCA history.

Regarding the partnership and expanded playing opportunities, Pamela Curran, President & CEO of the YMCA of Metropolitan Washington offers “At the Y, partnerships are more than just collaborations—they’re bridges that bring communities together through shared passion and purpose. Our new partnership with JOOLA represents a dynamic opportunity to expand access to healthy living and active play through the fast-growing sport of pickleball. Together, we’re not just adding a program—we’re creating a movement that invites individuals of all ages and backgrounds to connect, compete, and thrive. Welcome to a new era of play, wellness, and community.” 

Pros, Play, and Pickleball Passion

The energy was electric as supporters and spectators, enjoyed a dynamic lineup of activities:

• Play with the Pros
  Attendees rallied and competed alongside JOOLA pros Bobbi Oshiro, Regina Franco-Goldberg, Johnny Goldberg, Josh Jenkins, Mark Redding, Wil Shaffer and Jack Loughridge.

• Instructional Clinics
  Beginners and seasoned players alike took part in skill-building sessions with top YMCA pickleball coaches and JOOLA team members.

• Paddle Demos & Gear Testing
  Attendees had the chance to try out the latest JOOLA paddles and get expert advice from JOOLA staff.

• Round-Robin Play
  Community members joined in friendly matches throughout the day, blending fun and competition in true pickleball spirit.
  

Building Community, One Court at a Time

With JOOLA's support, this partnership will expand pickleball offerings at YMCA locations across Bethesda-Chevy Chase, Silver Spring, and Arlington, making the sport more accessible and enjoyable for everyone — from beginners to future champions.

This is more than a partnership. It’s a shared vision for community connection, active living, and lifelong fun through pickleball. JOOLA will be providing equipment, host four demo days a year, one summer exhibition with JOOLA pros and one Fall Camp. (Dates: TBD)

So if you're a pickleball fan in the area, join the YMCA today to take advantage of the pickleball offerings.

To everyone who joined us at Paddles with a Purpose, thank you for making the day unforgettable. The Richard Lee Court is now open — a place where players of all ages and skill levels can come together, compete, and grow.

Here’s to more rallies, more partnerships, and more purpose-driven pickleball.