Finding Balance in Body, Mind, and Soul Through Pickleball: Gilbert’s Story

 

When Gilbert first picked up a pickleball paddle a couple of years ago, he was simply looking for a healthy activity to stay active after retiring. What he found was much more: a sport that challenges his body, stimulates his mind, lifts his spirit, and connects him to a welcoming community.

 

“I was looking for something good for my body, and pickleball definitely gives me a lot of cardiovascular exercise,” Gilbert shared. “But it’s also great for my mind. The game moves quickly, and you have to make choices constantly. On top of that, it’s something that’s really good for my soul. I’ve met people who are friendly, competitive, and just want to have fun.

It’s a perfect balance.”

 

Discovering the Game

 

Gilbert’s journey into pickleball began somewhat by chance. After retiring from his career in gambling operations that spanned 35 years, he found himself with more time. One day, he noticed people playing pickleball at a local park. Curious, he joined a couple of friends who already played—and quickly fell in love with the game.

“It gave me exactly what I was looking for: something to engage my body, mind, and soul,” he said.

 

Joining the RGSA Community

 

This past winter marked Gilbert’s first season playing at Ronnie Grandison Sports Academy (RGSA), and he’s already planning to return next season.

 

“I think RGSA has done a fantastic job of building an environment where I can find competitiveness at different levels, but also camaraderie and friendliness,” he explained. “The environment is friendly, the staff is welcoming, and the facilities are always clean. I know when I come here, I’ll have a good experience.”

 

While Gilbert enjoys both indoor and outdoor play, he appreciates the consistency of having a place like RGSA to play year-round—especially through Ohio winters.

 

Sharing the Game

 

Pickleball hasn’t just been a personal outlet for Gilbert—he’s also become an ambassador for the sport.

“Just this morning, I was volunteering at Reach Out Lakota, and one of the volunteers asked where they could learn to play pickleball,” he recalled. “I told them Ronnie’s was the perfect place. The community here is wonderful, and the trainers help you take your game to the next level.”

 

Gilbert also supports RGSA’s community efforts, like donating lost-and-found items to Reach Out Lakota and volunteering with the Boys & Girls Club in West Chester, where kids are introduced to pickleball and basketball clinics they may not otherwise have access to.

 

Fun on the Court

 

When it comes to his style of play, Gilbert enjoys mixing it up.

“I like to put spin on the ball, and people tell me I add a lot of spin. But more than that, I enjoy doing the unpredictable,” he said with a grin. “Most people can predict a slam or a dink—but when you throw in something unexpected, it really throws people off. That’s fun for me.”

 

He hasn’t played in tournaments yet, preferring the recreational side of the game, but he says every time on the court brings memorable moments—whether it’s a surprising shot he didn’t think he could make or simply laughing with friends.

 

Advice for New Players

 

Gilbert is quick to encourage newcomers to give the sport a try.

“Don’t be intimidated,” he said. “This sport is open to all levels. You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars on a paddle. Just start simple, bring a friend, and learn together. That’s what makes it fun.”

 

He also hopes to help break some of the myths surrounding pickleball:

• It’s not just an “old person’s” sport—younger players are thriving, too.

• You don’t need to have played tennis to succeed.

• You don’t need to be in peak physical shape; pickleball is adaptable for everyone.

 

A Game for Life

 

For Gilbert, pickleball is much more than a pastime. It’s a way to stay active, make friends, and give back to the community.

“I’ve found that this game feeds my body, mind, and soul,” he said. “That’s why I keep coming back.”