Twila Adams: From Army Veteran to Adaptive Pickleball Champion
When it comes to breaking barriers, Twila Adams doesn’t just push the envelope—she smashes it with a paddle.
Twila Adams on the pickleball court, mid-shot
She’s a decorated Army veteran, adaptive athlete, public speaker, and community activist redefining what's possible. From surviving a life-changing accident to becoming a beacon of hope through sports, Twila’s journey is nothing short of incredible—and it all comes together on the pickleball court.
From Combat Boots to Adaptive Sports Legend
Before Twila Adams was a pickleball star, she served as a U.S. Army Sergeant serving in Desert Storm. Her life took an unexpected turn in 1994 when a devastating car accident left her with 2 broken vertebrae (C4-C5) leaving her paralyzed, only able to move her mouth and eyes. Doctors told her she’d never walk again.
But Twila wasn’t having that.
With relentless determination, unwavering resilience, and a whole lot of grit, she worked to regain movement in her arms and upper body.
“The accident didn’t happen to me—it happened for me,” she says.
That mindset has fueled every step of her comeback
Finding Her Comeback in Adaptive Sports
Twila’s true comeback began at the National Veterans Wheelchair Games in 2002. That’s where she discovered a whole new world of adaptive sports—and a new version of herself.
Since then, she’s competed in 10 different events including powerlifting, trap shooting, boccia, bowling, and more. She’s earned medals, yes—but what really drives her is the camaraderie, the challenge, and the pure joy of movement.
She was the first woman to win the Port Award for Sportsmanship in trap shooting and earned the coveted Spirit of the Games Award in 2019. Her medal collection includes air pistol, discus, shot put, javelin, and even bowling gold.
How Pickleball Became Her Happy Place
In 2019, Twila discovered pickleball at a VA adaptive sports clinic in Georgia—and it was love at first serve. The social vibe, the energy, the playfulness—she was hooked.
Today, she plays up to five times a week and leads clinics at the YMCA and rec centers. Veterans, beginners of all ages—even five-year-olds—have benefited from her coaching and enthusiasm.
Whether you’re walking or wheeling onto the court, Twila wants you to know:
“Forget about the chair—I’m just playing the ball.”
It’s Called Pickleball, Y’all
Twila’s infectious energy spills into social media through her platform “It’s Called Pickleball, Y’all.” She’s active on:
Instagram: posting game clips, adaptive tips, and behind-the-scenes moments.
YouTube: shares motivational videos, match highlights, and clinic insights
Her channels are a hub for learning, laughing, and finding hope in every swing.
More Than an Athlete: A Voice for Change
Twila doesn’t stop at sports. As an advocate with Paralyzed Veterans of America and former board member, she shares her story at community events, retreats, and summits. She blends military grit, Reiki healing, and heartfelt encouragement in every talk.
Her message is simple and powerful:
“If I can inspire novices and share hope, then my injury is not in vain.”
Why Twila’s Story Matters
She shows what’s possible in adaptive athletics
She’s creating inclusive spaces for sport and community
She uplifts veterans and people with disabilities through voice and visibility
She inspires everyone to find joy, strength, and purpose—no matter the odds
Final Thoughts: A Paddle, A Purpose, and a Whole Lot of Heart
Twila Adams isn’t just changing the game—she’s changing lives.
Her journey from military service to spinal cord injury, and now to center court in adaptive pickleball, reminds us all that with community, courage, and contagious positivity, the impossible becomes possible.
Because in her words—and her world:
“This game is for everyone—and we’re just getting started.”
