2025 Pickleball Canada (“PCO”) Ambassadors Program Launched

April 16, 2025, Vancouver, B.C.—After research results informed PCO that many Canadians were lacking information as a key barrier to participating in our engaging sport of Pickleball, PCO created a program that aims to enhance communication efforts and better connect with its community. Further, the program targets individuals who are pickleball leaders and passionate about advancing the sport. Thus, the 2025 Pickleball Canada Ambassadors Program was launched on April 10th 2025.

The Research
In detail, January 2025 PCO commissioned a Canadian research firm to gain insights into pickleball trends nationwide. The survey reached over 2,000 Canadian households and revealed that more than 1.54 million Canadians are currently participating in the sport.

PCO also sought to understand why some Canadians may not be involved in the sport and to identify the barriers contributing to this lack of participation. The survey found that 21% of respondents cited a lack of information about the sport as the primary obstacle. To address this communication gap, PCO launched the Ambassador Program.

Ambassadors Search and BC Assignments
PCO sent out a communication call for applications on February 3, 2025 with a set deadline of February 21, 2025. Next, PCO received over 160 applications for spots in the program. After a selection process was undertaken, 17 individuals from across the country were selected based on their community involvement and dedication to our sport. 
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Pickleball BC Association (“PBC”) is excited to announce the following individuals as the 2025 Pickleball Canada Ambassadors in BC: 

In addition, Lindsay’s journey into pickleball began unexpectedly, fueled by her lifelong love for badminton. During her time working as a server in Paris, one of her regular customers encouraged her to try pickleball. Despite initial hesitation, Lindsay decided to give it a shot—and was immediately hooked. She fell in love with the game’s energetic pace, inclusive nature, and the welcoming social atmosphere it fosters. Pickleball quickly became more than just a hobby; it became her passion and an avenue for forging new connections within her community. Today, Lindsay regularly plays at Greenaway Park in Surrey, which buzzes with players of all ages and skill levels, creating a sense of camaraderie that she cherishes deeply.

​As a dedicated educator, Lindsay has gone above and beyond to share her love for pickleball with her students. Since moving to Surrey, she has introduced several students to the sport and is actively working to bring pickleball to her school. Her vision is to empower young athletes to discover the joy and value of the game, just as she did. Recognizing the growth of pickleball across the province, Lindsay is also inspired by the increasing number of facilities incorporating courts in areas such as Langley and Burnaby, a testament to the sport’s skyrocketing popularity.

Moreover, Asaan first picked up a paddle in late 2021 after being introduced to the sport by his parents—and like many others, he was instantly hooked. Since then, pickleball has become a major part of his life, both on and off the court. Based in Sooke, BC, he’s proud to be part of a vibrant and welcoming pickleball community where players of all ages and skill levels come together to compete, connect, and have fun.

As the Tournament Director for the upcoming Sooke Paddle Battle on May 3rd and 4th, Asaan is thrilled to help launch the community’s first-ever pickleball tournament. The event is a celebration of Sooke’s growing passion for the sport and a chance to bring players together in a fun, friendly, and competitive environment.

Pickleball is rapidly growing on Vancouver Island, with more players joining the sport every day. As the demand for the game increases, communities are responding by adding new courts, making it easier for players of all ages and skill levels to get involved. This surge in interest reflects the sport’s accessibility and social appeal, as well as its ability to bring people together across generations.

Barry Petrachenko, Pickleball Canada Executive Director
“This initiative represents a game-changing opportunity for us to engage more meaningfully with our stakeholders. I believe it will not only enhance our ability to collaborate but also empower every individual within our organization to connect, share ideas, and contribute to our shared vision in exciting new ways. I couldn’t be more excited to see where this journey takes us!”, said Pickleball Canada Executive Director Barry Petrachenko.
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David Snell, President, Pickleball BC Association, adds: “There’s an Ancient Proverb that states … ‘If you are planning for one year, grow rice. If you are planning for twenty years, grow trees. If you are planning for centuries, grow people.’

That adage aligns with the Ambassador Program’s initiative to reach individuals, communities and to inform, educate them to participate in our inclusive, appealing sport. This will also engage our provincial members to cast a wider net in their respective region to educate others for growth. Let us welcome and support our BC Ambassadors Lindsay and Asaan as they plant the seeds for future generations.”

Additional 2025 PCO Ambassador Program information is here and also here.

For more information, contact:

David Snell, President
Pickleball BC Association
[email protected]

BC Mainland: Lindsay Brown
Pickleball Canada Ambassador - B.C.
[email protected] 

The Island: Asaan Maherali
​Pickleball Canada Ambassador - B.C.
[email protected]