The DeHearts Family: A Journey of Family, Adventure, and Pickleball on National Pickleball Day

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As National Pickleball Day approaches on August 8th, the remarkable journey of the DeHearts family takes center stage, showcasing the transformative power of pickleball in fostering unity, adventure, and love within a family. A Celebration of Pickleball's Rise National Pickleball Day is a nationwide celebration of the vibrant sport of pickleball, a game that has captivated enthusiasts in all 50 states. Melding the best of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, pickleball's accessibility and camaraderie have made it a beloved pastime for players of all ages and skill levels. A Remarkable Family Story The DeHearts family, consisting of Ryler DeHeart, Megan Fudge, and their two children Lily and JR, has embarked on an extraordinary journey that bridges sports, adventure, and togetherness. The couple first met as tennis players for the University of Illinois and later reconnected, marrying in a Las Vegas chapel. Life took them through numerous job changes and moves as Ryler coached college tennis, but it was their dedication to family that ultimately led them to the world of pickleball. A Pandemic Turned to Passion When the pandemic struck, the DeHearts were seeking family-friendly exercise options. Pickleball caught their attention, and they began playing on a makeshift court in their driveway. The simple joy of the game led them to explore it further upon their move to St. Petersburg, Florida. "We went out to some courts and met other couples that had kids as well," Megan explained, highlighting the social aspect of the sport that resonated with their family values. A Professional Pursuit While the DeHearts were still navigating career decisions, pickleball continued to weave its way into their lives. They ventured into the professional pickleball tour, with Ryler and Megan both becoming part of the competitive scene. Their children, Lily and JR, joined them on this adventure, creating a unique blend of professional sports and family bonding. An Unconventional Home and Schooling To fully embrace their pickleball journey, the DeHearts made a bold move – they embraced life on the road in an RV. This mobile home allowed them to stay together as a family and experience the tour firsthand. The DeHearts have also chosen to homeschool their children, striking a balance between structured learning and the freedom to play. Lily and JR engage in virtual schooling, enjoying both traditional learning and participating in the world of pickleball. A Lesson in Recreation and Joy The DeHearts' approach to sports is rooted in fun and recreation. Their focus is on cultivating their children's athleticism and fostering a love for sports. Pickleball serves as a medium through which the family comes together, competes, and learns – all while cherishing each moment shared. This National Pickleball Day, the DeHearts family stands as a testament to the values at the core of the sport: unity, camaraderie, and the pursuit of adventure. Their story echoes the essence of the sport, celebrating the connections it forges and the remarkable journeys it enables. As communities nationwide celebrate National Pickleball Day, the DeHearts family serves as a heartwarming reminder that sports can be more than just a game – they can be a bridge that brings families closer, creating memories that last a lifetime. Follow their journey on Facebook and Instagram.