The Addiction is Real: How STRIDE Women Leaders Just Proved Me Right (Again)
I’m just going to come out and say it: I told you so.
If you were at the STRIDE Women’s Networking Event this past Friday, you heard me issue a very specific warning before anyone even touched the court. I looked those powerhouse women leaders in the eye and shared my ultimate truth: “If you pick up a paddle, you will become addicted.”
I don’t make the rules; I just report them. And let’s just say, by the time we wrapped up, my “truth” wasn’t just a theory - it was a full-blown reality.
High Energy, High Stakes, and High Volleys
There is something absolutely electric about a group of driven women coming together to tackle a new skill. The energy at the STRIDE event was off the charts. We’re talking positive mindsets, wide-open hearts, and a level of enthusiasm that could power a small city.
We didn’t just talk shop; we got to work. I had the absolute pleasure of walking these leaders through the “Pickleball 101” essentials:
The Rules: (Yes, the kitchen is for dinking, not snacks).
The Volley: Quick hands, quicker wits.
The Dink: The ultimate test of patience.
The Serve: Putting the “power” in “powerhouse”
Watching them get their first official game in the books was a highlight of my week. The smiles were constant, the laughter was loud, and the competitive spirits? Chef’s kiss.
The Vision: More Than Just a Game
As I stood there watching teams ask for group photos with the players they had just competed against, I had a bit of a “pinch-me” moment. When I launched Paddle Up Solutions back in October 2025, this was the exact outcome I envisioned.
I wanted to create a space where people could:
Step outside their comfort zones.
Build genuine, lasting relationships.
Leverage the game of pickleball for professional networking.
These women weren’t just hitting a ball; they were connecting on a level that goes far deeper than a standard “coffee and business cards” meeting. They were building trust, strategizing together, and seeing firsthand how powerful this sport is for both personal fulfillment and professional growth.
The Verdict: They came to “network” but they left with a brand-new obsession and a desperate need to find the nearest court. Consider the addiction officially launched.
“What’s Next?” (And Where Do I Get That Paddle?)
By the end of the session, the questions started flying faster than a Prolite power serve:
“When can we play again?”
“What’s the next step?”
“Where can I buy one of these paddles?”
Speaking of paddles, I have to give a massive shoutout to our official partner, Prolite. This was our first event utilizing our new Prolite fleet, and let’s just say the women were obsessed. There’s nothing like the feel of a high-quality paddle to make you feel like a pro (even if you just learned what a “non-volley zone” was ten minutes prior).
As for how to get one for yourself…..Paddle Up has a discount code for Prolite paddles & gear- just go to www.prolitesports.com/pu1124 or use code “PU1124” during checkout for 25% off your order!
Looking Ahead: The Future is Networking (on the Court)
To all the women asking “what’s next” - I hear you. The sparks were flying regarding women’s pickleball networking events, and I am thrilled to confirm that this is officially on the radar for Paddle Up Solutions.
We are currently refining our “Networking Events” offerings to bring more of this magic to our local communities. Stay tuned, because we’ll be coming to a court near you later this year.
Consider yourselves warned: the addiction has only just begun.
See you on the court,
Lisa Hurda
Founder & CEO, Paddle Up Solutions