What Makes John “Pickleball Cowboy” with Greek Pickleball a Good Neighbor...

From law enforcement officer to pickleball evangelist, "Cowboy" has transformed his unexpected passion for the sport into Greek Pickleball, a thriving nonprofit training academy. During this energetic conversation, Cowboy dispels common misconceptions about pickleball, revealing that despite its recent surge in popularity, the sport actually dates back to 1965 when a Washington state family created it using a paddle and wiffle ball.

What makes Cowboy's story particularly compelling is his rapid journey from complete novice to respected coach. Just three years ago, he stepped onto a pickleball court for the first time and faced immediate rejection—"Nobody wanted to play with a 6'2", 240-pound beginner," he laughs. Rather than giving up, this former college football player applied the same analytical mindset he used when studying game film, meticulously learning techniques through YouTube videos until those same players who once avoided him now actively sought him as a partner.

Greek Pickleball's mission extends far beyond typical sports instruction. Cowboy created the organization specifically to bring pickleball to communities lacking access, with special emphasis on youth programs. "The younger people are who's speeding the game up," he explains, though his coaching spans generations—his youngest student is 8 years old, while his oldest is 89. Throughout the conversation, Cowboy shares a profound personal story about overcoming a catastrophic football injury in 1987 that doctors believed would end his athletic career entirely, illustrating the resilience that now defines his approach to business and coaching.

Ready to experience the fastest-growing sport in America? Connect with Greek Pickleball through their website, social media, or by texting Cowboy directly at 305-300-1677. Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to improve your skills, his inclusive philosophy ensures everyone feels welcome on the court.

For more information visit http://www.greekpickleball.org/ or call (305) 300-1677. Stay up to date on our socials at https://www.instagram.com/greekpickleball/ and https://www.facebook.com/greek.pickleball/.