Pickleball, Friendship and a Whole Lot of Fun at Friends Homes
Since the opening of the Wellness Center in 2022, pickleball has quickly become one of the most popular and energizing activities at Friends Homes life plan community in Greensboro N.C. What started as a new addition has grown into a thriving community of players who show up each week ready to move, laugh and connect.
With regularly scheduled group play and opportunities for residents to reserve the court for open play, it’s easy for everyone to get involved. All skill levels are welcome, and there is truly a place for everyone to join in, whether you’re picking up a paddle for the first time or looking for a more competitive match. The pickleball community at Friends Homes has something for you.
Beyond the fun, pickleball offers a wide range of wellness benefits. The game supports cardio health, balance, coordination and upper body movement, all while keeping players engaged and energized. Whether playing competitively or just for fun, residents are staying active in a way that feels approachable and enjoyable.
Just as important as the fitness benefits is the strong sense of community that pickleball creates. The court has become a natural gathering place where friendships form and neighbors connect. Residents who are more experienced are always eager to help newcomers learn the game safely and confidently. Bruce Johnson, a resident of three years and a dedicated skilled pickleball player, is one of those welcoming faces.
“I felt very welcomed by the Friends Homes pickleball community. Everyone was so friendly and invited me to come back. I’ve been playing ever since,” Bruce shares.
Bruce discovered pickleball after moving to Friends Homes, looking for a new way to stay active after years of playing tennis and golf. Like many others, he found not just a sport, but a community.
For residents Faith and Dan Fisher, pickleball has been part of their lives for more than 15 years. Long before moving to Friends Homes, they were deeply involved in the Greensboro pickleball scene and even helped introduce the sport to the Spears YMCA, where it continues today. When they were considering Friends Homes, they shared their passion with leadership and encouraged the addition of a pickleball court in the new Wellness Center. When the doors opened in 2023, their vision had become a reality.
Today, pickleball at Friends Homes continues to grow in popularity, even playing a role in the annual Kintura Olympics and a spirited team member versus resident tournament, where residents proudly claimed the win.
For those new to the game, there is plenty of support. “There are many residents here, myself included, who are always happy to help new players learn the game,” Bruce says. “We want everyone to feel comfortable, play safely and truly enjoy the experience.”
With a welcoming community, built-in support from fellow residents and a beautiful space to play, pickleball at Friends Homes is more than just a game. It is an opportunity to stay active, try something new and feel right at home.
By Jessica Ford
Kintura Content Specialist