Registration ongoing for 'World's largest pickleball lesson'

Shape Up Us has partnered with Munchkin Programs to bring the world’s largest pickleball lesson to the Northeast Valley for free, and registration is now open.

Mark Miller started Munchkin Programs in Chicago 18 years ago, once hosting the world’s largest tennis lesson at DePaul University. Now he wants to do the same thing for pickleball, teaching the sport to kids all around Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills and the surrounding area. While pickleball has exploded in popularity with adults, Miller said he doesn’t see much effort to reach kids ages 3-12. That’s where his big event comes in, planned to take place in Scottsdale later this fall.

The lesson will take place on Saturday, Nov. 2, at McDowell Mountain Ranch, 10607 E. Paradise Lane, Scottsdale. Registration is required, but the lesson is free for all participants. For more information, contact Jyl Steinback at jyl@shapeupus.org. For additional details or to register, visit shapeupus.org.

Shape Up Us is also holding a Family Fun Community Event simultaneously at McDowell Mountain Ranch. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., community members can enjoy other activities, like inflatables, rock climbing walls, hula hoop contests, face painting, Ninja Warrior activities and more.

Shape Up Us is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization focused on building a healthier future for children, families and communities. The organization has partnered with USA Pickleball and the McDowell Mountain Ranch Pickleball Association for the Family Fun Community Event.

Admission is free, and kids, adults and seniors are all welcome at Shape Up Us’ community event. Miller’s tennis lesson is open to children ages 3-12. Registration for the pickleball lesson runs through Saturday, Oct. 19.