How does a casual invitation to try pickleball turn into a life of international travel, officiating, and helping grow the sport around the world?

In this episode, Ron Ponder shares how he first discovered pickleball in 2017 after a biking friend invited him to play, and how that simple introduction quickly led to a new calling. Ron talks about becoming a referee, serving as a USA Pickleball ambassador, working on the USA Pickleball Rules Committee, and now traveling globally as the Global Pickleball Federation’s Director of Officiating. 

He also shares unforgettable stories from places like Madagascar and Ghana, where pickleball is creating connection, joy, and opportunity in remarkable ways. Along the way, Ron reflects on the deeper life lessons the sport teaches about honesty, teamwork, community, and why pickleball may be one of the only games in the world that can truly bring every generation together. 

This is a fascinating and uplifting conversation about pickleball refereeing, global pickleball growth, international travel, sportsmanship, community, and the life lessons that come from saying yes to unexpected adventures. 

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📘 Our book Life Lessons from Pickleball™ is now available on Amazon

Order the book here: https://a.co/d/0bHPFYve

A collection of short, true stories from players around the world about community, resilience, and joy through the game of pickleball.

A portion of proceeds supports Operation PaddleLift, through the Global Pickleball Federation, distributing paddles, balls and nets to underserved communities around the world.

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Music gifted to us by Ian Pedersen: @ianpedersen 

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