Pickleball Superstars: How One Program Is Making the Sport More Inclusive for Players with IDD
When most people hear the term adaptive sports, they tend to picture athletes in wheelchairs or with visible physical disabilities. But the adaptive sports world is far more diverse. It also includes individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), a group often overlooked when it comes to inclusive recreation.
A group of pickleball players taking part in a Pickleball Superstars session.
The mission is clear: to build inclusive environments that empower individuals of all abilities to enjoy the physical, emotional, and social benefits of athletic participation. And in Cedarburg, Wisconsin, two powerhouse women are doing just that—with pickleball.
Serving Up Inclusion in Wisconsin
Meet Jordan Pintar and Rachel Rizzo, co-founders of Pickleball Superstars, an adaptive pickleball program built specifically for individuals with IDD. Since launching in 2024, their mission has been simple but powerful: bring movement, connection, and confidence to every player—while keeping things fun.
“We created this program to build a community where everyone belongs,” says Jordan. “We’ve seen our participants grow in skill and self-esteem, and the joy in each session is contagious.”
Jordan, inspired by her own community growing up, noticed a gap where she lives now: a large population of adults with disabilities, but limited options for meaningful physical activity and social connection. That’s where pickleball stepped in—offering more than just a game, but a true sense of belonging.
The Power of Pickleball for Players with IDD
Pickleball Superstars is more than just a place to learn forehands and backhands. It’s a safe, supportive space where players are celebrated for who they are.
The program offers weekly for both kids and adults, along with private lessons available for those who benefit from a quieter learning environment. Sessions begin with warm-ups and simple drills that cover the basics: serving, returning, dinking, and volleys. Jordan and Rachel tailor their teaching methods to meet individual needs, sometimes incorporating adaptive equipment like wrist supports, Velcro mitts, or stationary targets to support motor skill development and build hand-eye coordination.
Of course, accessibility has its challenges.
“Even for neurotypical players, the rules of pickleball can be tricky,” Jordan explains. “That’s why we simplify drills and focus on repetition over competition. For some, the court itself can be overwhelming—especially in multi-use gyms with confusing floor lines and unfamiliar settings.”
But that doesn’t stop the Superstars. With the support of the local community, they’re looking to grow—hosting pickleball parties, offering more adaptive play opportunities, and continuing to spread the game’s message of joy, community, and inclusivity.
A National Movement for Adaptive Pickleball
A pickleball playing loving one of the sessions through Pickleball Superstars.
The rise of programs like Pickleball Superstars isn’t an isolated phenomenon. Across the country, adaptive pickleball is gaining momentum. Organizations like Special Olympics are joining the movement, recognizing pickleball as a sport that’s not only fun but incredibly inclusive.
Jess Lewis of Massachusetts Special Olympics writes: “Pickleball stands out for its accessibility to athletes of all ages, abilities, and experience levels… It aligns perfectly with Special Olympics' mission of fostering unity and inclusion.”
As more adaptive pickleball programs emerge, they’re helping redefine what the sport looks like – and who gets to play.
Building a Culture of Belonging
“More than anything, we need a more welcoming and inclusive culture in the sport,” says Jordan. “Too often, open play environments aren’t designed to support players who need extra guidance. My hope is that we’ll continue to see more adaptive programs and facilities embracing what is, at its heart, the true spirit of pickleball: joy, connection, and community for all.”
At Pickleball Superstars, it’s not about wins and losses. It’s about confidence, friendships, and fun.
As their motto goes:
“Smiles, Swings, and Superstar Things!”
Want to support inclusive pickleball or learn more about Pickleball Superstars? Visit PickleballSuperstars.org and join the movement!
