I got to play where Pickleball was invented

 

Revisiting Pickleball's Roots in Washington State YouTuber Chronicles Journey to Where Pickleball Began SEATTLE - In a recent video, a popular pickleball YouTuber Brian Lim took viewers along on an inspirational journey to Washington state, the birthplace of pickleball. His goal: learn more about the sport's origins and reconnect with what makes it so special. 1. 00:56 Trip Details The host described receiving a direct message from pickleball paddle company Astria Pickleball's' founder Dmitry Ivanenko, who shared plans to build new pickleball facilities. This unique approach piqued the host's interest. After researching Dmitry's background as a top Russian junior tennis player whose career ended after a tragic 110-foot cliff fall, the host knew this was a story worth capturing. 2. 02:06 Day 1 On the first day, the Lim arrived in Seattle and received gifts from Astria, including paddles and a duffel bag. He announced a giveaway for fans, stating he wanted to hear their favorite or least favorite parts of the video to improve the content. 3. 02:58 Day 2 The Lim visited the founding courts built with help from pickleball co-founder Barney McCallum before his passing. He described the courts as beautiful and the facility as nice, though more courts are needed to meet demand. He noted the Olmsted brothers, who designed Seattle's Green Lake, also did Central Park using the motto "parks for all people." 4. 05:18 Day 3 Day 3 brought the "Pickleball For All" event downtown with pros like Connor Garnett and Irina Tereschenko. The host interviewed a representative from nonprofit Everything ALS, which works on ALS diagnosis, treatment and community using technology. He highlighted pickleball's inclusiveness and the partnership between Everything ALS, Astria and the Seattle pickleball community. 5. 07:02 Day 4 The Lim traveled to Bainbridge Island on day 4 to meet Kristin Ostrom, who runs the pickleball club there. She emphasized knowing your area and listening to players to give them what they want, like more leagues or open play times. Ostrom also encouraged having players mix up who they play with to improve. 6. 10:21 Day 5 On the final day, the Lim reflected on meeting Astria founder Dmitry, who made him feel welcomed instantly despite their age gap. He said Dmitry balanced kindness and not caring what people think with maturity beyond his years. The host concluded a great trip helps you leave as a changed person.

In closing, the Lim's journey to Washington reinforced why pickleball has made such an impact. From its communal, inclusive origins to modern leaders expanding access, the sport opens doors. By returning to pickleball's roots and people, the host rediscovered its ability to connect us all.