PICL (Pickleball for Incarcerated Communities League), was founded out of the belief that organized sports can be a powerful tool for restorative justice. Founded by a passionate group of individuals, including formerly incarcerated individuals, pickleball enthusiasts, and social activists, PICL emerged from a collective vision to bring hope, skill development, and a sense of community to those behind bars. Understanding the challenges faced by incarcerated individuals, we recognized the potential of pickleball, a rapidly growing sport celebrated for its accessibility and adaptability. Our mission became clear: introduce pickleball programs into correctional facilities, offering a holistic approach to rehabilitation that encompasses physical activity, skill acquisition, mental well-being, and social reintegration.

PICL offers a range of resources, training, and support to correctional institutions participating in our program across the country. Central to our initiative are carefully curated pickleball kits, meticulously designed to ensure every prison has the necessary equipment for engaging gameplay. These kits encompass high-quality paddles, balls, nets, and court markings, tailored to the space and courts available at each facility. Beyond equipment, PICL provides an extensive library of educational materials. From comprehensive rulebooks to interactive instructional videos and skill-building guides, our resources cater to various learning styles, enabling participants to grasp the nuances of pickleball at their own pace.

Finally, PICL coaches offer regular clinics at facilities in their area, with the goal of training incarcerated individuals, as well as correctional staff to learn the game. The model of sustainability is to get a core group of participants to a level that they can teach other community members and staff such that pickleball can be played and enjoyed even without outside involvement.