The Black community in Charlotte, NC is getting more exposure to pickleball courtesy of a local nonprofit called Black Pickleball & Co. (BPC).

The organization provides spaces where peoeple can come together, learn America's fastest-growing sport, and build meaningful connections in the process.

Queen City News reporter John Le spoke with BPC founder Kayla Brooks for a story published on Thursday.

"Funny enough, a friend was doing a project in an MBA class about pickleball and he was like, 'We should play.' And I was guilty, I said it, I said, 'Black people don’t play pickleball,'" she recalled.

Brooks subsequently picked up a paddle and hit the court. And the rest is history.

She quickly fell in love with the game.

"We want to take away the intimidation, that barrier to entry of, 'I don’t see anyone that looks like me, and so now I’m scared to suck, and I’m scared that I won’t be accepted,'" explained Brooks.

With that mind, she provides newcomers with an opportunity to learn key fundamentals at "Pick Up and Play" sessions.

An abbreviated version of the rules is taught to get players started.

"It is a judgement-free zone!" emphasized Brooks.

Le reports that an estimated 1 out of 12 pickleballers identify as Black. 

BPC hopes to improve that number by expanding its programs for different age groups, including kids and seniors.

The group has already introduced more than 800 people to the game.

"It’s intimidating to go into spaces where you primarily don’t see people that look like you, which is more intimidating than the sport itself," noted Brooks.

BPC, however, is flipping the script in that regard with every gathering.

"I’m even more proud to see the connections that get made that are lasting and transcend the court," mentioned Brooks.

BPC hosts events at venues throughout Charlotte, including Rally Pickleball, Tipsy Pickle, and LABCITY Pickleball Club. 

More than just pickle

Back in April, Brooks spoke about BPC's mission with WCNC reporter Myles Harris.

Pickleball really is the gateway for an even larger objective.