Pickleball is taking Massachusetts by storm, and at PickleballU in Sturbridge, it’s making an even greater impact. This popular sport has become more than just a recreational activity for a group of students from Tantasqua High School—it’s a tool for learning, growth, and connection.
The Tantasqua Success Team, made up of 18- to 22-year-old students with special needs, visits PickleballU weekly. For students like Donald Parks, it’s a chance to learn something new while having fun. “I also love hitting the balls over the net with this paddle,” Donald shared with enthusiasm.
But the program is about more than just the game. Special education teacher Megan Rice explains that it’s helping students develop important life skills. “It’s not just about playing pickleball. The students learn to sign up, complete waivers, and check in, which builds communication and responsibility,” she said. The experience also teaches teamwork and focus as they navigate the rules of the game together.
PickleballU owners generously provide the space for free, promoting a sport that’s accessible to everyone. They describe pickleball as “easy to learn, easy to pick up, and very social.” For these students, the weekly sessions offer not only exercise and fun but also a sense of pride and accomplishment.
The group has big plans to organize competitive games next summer, but for now, they’re simply enjoying playing with friends and building confidence. “I just like playing with my friends,” one student shared, while another proudly added, “I have really good arm strength.”
For PickleballU and the students, it’s clear that these sessions are about much more than the game—they’re about community, growth, and having a great time.
