Rallying to Recovery

For years, I was trapped in a cycle of addiction, my life spiraling into a haze of drugs that clouded my judgment and dimmed my dreams. Every morning began with regret, and every night ended with disappointment. Friends drifted away, and my family watched helplessly as I lost myself in a world that seemed darker with each passing day.

I eventually took a deep breath and decided to seek help. I enrolled in a rehabilitation program filled with individuals who shared similar battles. The first few days were tough, filled with cravings and withdrawal symptoms, but slowly, I began to regain my strength.

During group therapy, I heard stories that resonated deeply with me and found a sense of fellowship in the struggle for recovery. Just as I was starting to feel very little hope, one of the counselors introduced the concept of pickleball.

Intrigued, I researched it, finding that it was a fast-paced racket sport that combined elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. It seemed fun and accessible, perfect for someone newly sober looking for a quick outlet.

To my surprise, the game was exhilarating! I found myself laughing and enjoying the thrill of competition, surrounded by supportive teammates who encouraged one another. As the weeks went by, pickleball became my anchor.

Every afternoon, I traded the chaos of addiction for the camaraderie of my new friends on the court. I started to look forward to the exercises and matches, where the sounds of laughter and rallying shouts replaced the silence of my old life. The sport provided a healthy distraction, helping me focus on goals beyond my recovery.

The physical benefits were incredible, too. I could feel the endorphins pumping through my veins, and the heavy fitness made me feel empowered. I was trading late-night binges for late-night practice sessions, and the weight I had carried—both physically and mentally—began to lift.

Over time, pickleball taught me more than just the rules of the game; it taught me about resilience, patience, and the joy of setting and achieving goals.

When I faced tough days, I would head to the court instead of collapsing into old habits. Pickleball was no longer just a sport; it had become a lifeline, a passion that filled the void left by addiction.

Months passed, and the transformation was undeniable. As I stepped away from the grips of addiction, I found a healthier version of myself.

My goal is to teach pickleball to kids and share my story of recovery. It will feel incredible to give back, and I cherish the opportunity to empower others facing their struggles.

Now, as I stand on the court, paddle in hand, I can confidently say that I’m thankful for the journey. The path of addiction was dark, but it led me to a place of healing and hope—a place where I discovered the power of love, friendship, and the thrill of the game.

Pickleball hadn’t just saved me; it had transformed me, turning a life once filled with despair into one with joy and purpose.

And now, every time I serve and rally, I do it with gratitude, celebrating the second chance life has given me—a chance to live, laugh, and love again, one game at a time.

-GPI PLAY IT FORWARD

AMBASSADOR: JAMES MOOSE