Pickleball Behind Bars: From San Quentin to Rikers Island

Описание: In Episode 4 of Between the Rallies, I sit down with Roger Belair, who’s doing some of the most meaningful work in pickleball today — teaching the game inside prisons across the country.
Roger shares what it’s like bringing pickleball to facilities ranging from San Quentin State Prison to Rikers Island, and how the game is being used to teach more than just forehands and dinks.
🏓 Pickleball in Prisons
How Roger got started teaching pickleball in correctional facilities
Why pickleball works so well as a tool for discipline, connection, and life skills
The impact the game has had on inmates, staff, and prison culture
Stories from inside the walls that completely change how you see the sport
👟 Gear Talk
Early thoughts and discussion around the upcoming Selkirk Sport CourtStrike 2.0 shoes
What players should expect from the update and why footwear matters more than people think
Thoughts on the Gherkin Pickleball Draco paddle and where it fits in today’s paddle landscape
🎯 Bigger Picture
Pickleball’s responsibility as it continues to grow
Why programs like this matter for the future of the sport
How pickleball can be a vehicle for purpose, not just performance
If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to like, subscribe, and comment with questions or topics you want covered in future episodes.
🎧 I’ll catch you Between the Rallies.

TimeStamps
Off The Bounce "00:11"
Pickleball In Prisons with Roger "01:34"
In The Bag "11:23"
Around The Net "18:20"
Mail Call "21:54"
Smash Or Pass "26:21"

Gear Talked About
Gherkin Draco. www.gherkinusa.com
Beyond Measure Ronin. www.playbeyondmeasure.com
Selkirk Courtstrike 2.0. www.selkirk.com
Blumaka Insoles www.blumaka.com

Pickleball For The Incarcerated Communities League
https://www.picleague.org/