Pickleball as Therapy: How One Veteran Is Supporting Others Through the Game

There’s never a shortage of heartwarming stories in the world of pickleball, and we’re always eager to share them with you.

Today’s story comes from California, where a Navy veteran has found more than just a love for the game—he’s found peace, purpose, and a way to help fellow veterans do the same.

Veteran finds peace in pickleball

Like many veterans, Joe Wilson, a Navy combat veteran from Temecula, struggled with the transition to civilian life after leaving the military. Finding his footing wasn’t easy, but a surprising discovery helped him find peace: pickleball.

Now, at 44, Wilson is on a mission to help fellow veterans through the sport he loves by organizing a National Veterans Pickleball League (NVPL) tournament this fall. To support his effort, Wilson launched a GoFundMe campaign with a goal of raising $5,000 to provide equipment and cover court fees for veterans who want to participate but lack the resources.

Wilson, who began playing pickleball two years ago in Washington, says the sport has been transformative. "After transitioning from the military, I found civilian life difficult. I sought out different activities, and that's when I came across pickleball,” he shared. “It helps me feel good about life.”

Using pickleball for camaraderie and community

Having been an athlete since childhood, Wilson naturally gravitated toward pickleball. After serving in the Navy, he found a renewed sense of camaraderie through the game, and he hopes the NVPL will bring the same experience to other veterans struggling with their transition to civilian life.

Wilson’s nonprofit, established last year, is designed to ensure that veterans and their families can participate without financial barriers. "My hope for the NVPL is that no veteran would be discouraged from playing because they don’t have the necessary equipment,” he explained. His charity helps provide gear like paddles, portable nets, and safety glasses.

So far, Wilson has raised about $500 but is optimistic that more support will come in. He’s currently scouting locations for the tournament in Temecula and surrounding areas and envisions creating a permanent space for veterans to play.

Wilson also aims to expand opportunities for disabled veterans in the long term. “I’m thinking huge,” he said, hopeful about the future.

With plans for a November tournament near Veterans Day, Wilson is eager to help other veterans discover the joy and support pickleball can offer.

If you'd like to support Joe's GoFundMe, you can do so here.