Faith on the Court: What Pickleball Teaches Me About God, Grace, and Community

Pickleball isn’t just America’s fastest-growing sport—it’s also a surprisingly sacred space where ping-pong meets tennis meets group therapy. Somehow, between the whiffs, the wins, and the wild shots, I’ve found belly laughs, new friendships, and unexpected moments of God’s grace… all before 10 a.m.

Whether you're a third-shot-drop perfectionist or still calling the paddle a "racket," this quirky sport has a rhythm that mirrors something deeper. Here's how it's helping me grow in faith—one chaotic, joy-filled game at a time.

Kindness Over Competition: Reflecting Christ on the Court

One minute you're dinking like a pro, the next you're hitting the ball over the fence like Shohei Ohtani. Welcome to pickleball—the great humbler of egos and a surprisingly effective classroom for Christlike character.

When you miss a shot, do you laugh or stew?
When your opponent lands a perfect drive, do you offer a "Nice shot!" or beat yourself up?
When your partner flubs an easy one, do you glare… or give a paddle bump and say, “Next one’s ours”?

Every rally offers a chance to reflect Christlike kindness:

• To your teammate.

• To your opponent.

• To the person who insists the ball was out (when it clearly wasn’t).

• And yes, even to yourself.

These are the moments where kindness can echo louder than any scoreboard. Because let’s be honest—most of us aren’t going pro. But we can go pro in compassion.

“Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.” — Ephesians 4:32 (NIV)

Finding Christian Community in the Most Unexpected Place

One of the best things about pickleball is that everyone plays. I’ve seen 10-year-olds, 80-year-olds, and a guy who wears Crocs with socks (shout out to the amazing KJ!)—all sharing the same court.

Pickleball is the great equalizer. You can show up feeling like a big shot… and still get humbled by a 72-year-old with a knee brace and a safari hat (You rock, Chris!).

And that’s what makes it beautiful.

Because just like in God’s Kingdom, it’s not about who’s the best, flashiest, or most experienced. It’s about showing up, being willing, and using whatever God’s given you—whether that’s skill, humor, encouragement, or just a joyful spirit.

God Moves Where We Least Expect

Some of my most meaningful spiritual moments haven’t happened in a church pew, but during a game break on the pickleball court.

• A water break that turns into a heart-to-heart.
• A sideline chat that becomes a prayer.
• A post-game laugh that reminds someone they’re not alone.

Your Court, Your Ministry

Pickleball may not look like a place to shine His light, but it absolutely is!

Every “You got this!”

Every paddle tap.

Every honest conversation after a match…

It all matters.

So play with joy.
Serve with grace.
Let your game reflect your faith.

And hey—let your shirt do a little witnessing, too.
👉 [Explore our newest faith-based designs]

Because at the end of the day, it’s not about how many games you win. It’s about how many hearts you turn toward God—with your words, your witness, and your willingness to show up and shine His light!