The YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase will host Paddles with a Purpose on Saturday, May 17, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 9401 Old Georgetown Road in Bethesda to kick off its new partnership with pickleball brand North Bethesda-based JOOLA, featuring pro meet-and-greets, clinics, and round robin play.
Per the news release: “The two-day event will offer both the public and YMCA members the chance to team up with JOOLA participating touring and junior pros including Bobbi Oshiro (currently ranked #4 on the Women’s APP Tour) and Johnny Goldberg (current head coach, Miami Pickleball Club of Major League Pickleball).
The JOOLA partnership is particularly notable because the global brand’s founder got his start playing at the YMCA Bethesda-Chevy Chase.
“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.”
The partnership will bring more pickleball options to the community. 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.”