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"...Shannon is a thoughtful and patient teacher while also being friendly and welcoming. Can't recommend enough!" -- Chester I. Yelp! Review

** NEW PLAYERS WELCOME!

** OVER 800 "FIVE-STAR" MEETUP REVIEWS

** ALL SUPPLIES PROVIDED

** CERTIFIED PICKLEBALL INSTRUCTOR

WHAT MAKES JOY CRAZY® PICKLEBALL SO SPECIAL?

Joy Crazy® Pickleball is all about creating a supportive, welcoming community of newer and casual pickleball players. My name is Shannon Diffenderffer and I have a master's degree in adult education, and I am a Certified IPTPA Level 1 PickIeball Instructor. Each week I love to teach new players the joys of pickleball!

A cross between tennis, ping pong, and badminton, pickleball is enjoyed by players from a wide range of ages and physical abilities. I myself have a couple of chronic conditions, yet still enjoy the game.

Warning: You might become a little "Joy Crazy" about pickleball once you try it!"

WHAT IS TAUGHT IN A "JOY CRAZY™" PICKLEBALL CLASS?

You can take several types of group sessions through my company, Joy Crazy™, LLC, and all sign-ups take place via this "Joy Crazy® Pickleball" Meetup Group.

Current Offerings:

  1. Introduction to Pickleball - A 90-minute class, which gives a brief but thorough overview of the sport to brand-new players. It is a great "onboarding" class because you will learn not just about how to play the game, but a bit about the "world" of pickleball and how to navigate in it. Please see Yelp or Google Reviews to learn what students have to say.
  2. 2.0-2.75 (Essentials) and 3.0 (Core) "Daisy Doubles" - These round-robin play sessions offer individual players a chance to play multiple pickleball games with different players in a welcoming, supportive setting. The “Intro” class (above) is a required prerequisite for the Daisy Doubles classes.
  3. Midweek Mixers - Sometimes the gym is available for a midweek class and we use this time to do some skill building with drills and games.
  4. *Quiet* Daisy Doubles - Especially designed for those who are concerned about protecting their hearing, *Quiet* Daisy Doubles are similar to regular Daisy Doubles (see above), but rather than a plastic pickleball we play with a Gamma "Librarian" foam pickleball. This significantly decreases the noise in the gym and for those who are Hard of Hearing or wear hearing aids, makes it much easier to hear other players announce the score.
  5. Team Building - Are you looking for an enjoyable way to strengthen your team's bond? Look no further! The 90-minute team building pickleball sessions blend fun and fitness while fostering camaraderie among colleagues. Our sessions can be tailored to suit your needs. The Friendly House venue is suitable for 8-12 players per session, though larger venues may be available. For an informational flyer click here, or contact Shannon Diffenderffer - Text/Call: 971/319/2831 or Email: shannon@joycrazy.com

To view upcoming classes, see "Events" and be sure to click "See all..." to view the complete list.

FAQ:

DO YOU HAVE A WEBSITE (BESIDES MEETUP)?

Yes, I have two websites worth checking out:

  • JoyCrazy.Com - This website offers a list of pickleball resource links (e.g. paddle buying guide), links to Portland area courts, and links that offer a deeper dive into the Joy Crazy, LLC mission.
  • JoyCrazy.Shop - I am often asked for pickleball product recommendations or what makes me so joyful. I put together a list of "Joy Crazy Approved" products from pickleball and home goods to books and tech items. Please take a look and support a small business (I will earn a small affiliate commission) and you just might find something you never knew you needed!

Additionally, you will want to be sure to sign up for the Joy Crazy Newsletter. As a certified pickleball instructor, I like to share pickleball tips, highlights from my adventures visiting area courts, class and event updates, and your pet pals. Each issue is meant to brighten your day, connect the Joy Crazy community, and uplift your spirit!

WHY SHOULD I LEARN PICKLEBALL WITH YOU?

I have been a K-Adult educator for over 20 years. I discovered pickleball in 2018 and was instantly hooked. Years ago, I was a YMCA Adventure Trip Leader, teaching everything from rock climbing to canoeing. After the Covid-19 pandemic, I decided to pivot my career back to my "recreational roots." I am now a Certified IPTPA Level 1 Pickleball Instructor. I began this Meetup group in July 2022 and immediately began receiving 5-Star reviews. In part, because I create a welcoming environment for new players and teach using a variety of tools that help students remember what they have learned.

I named my company "Joy Crazy™, LLC" because I believe we need to be our own "joy advocates" and pickleball is an activity full of laughter and smiles. My focus is on introducing - or "onboarding* - new players to the world of pickleball, giving players the "inside scoop" often missed in other introductory classes, along with a host of resources via my frequently updated website at JoyCrazy.com.

My pickleball sessions are designed to lift your pickleball game, as well as your mood -- no matter the obstacles you face -- in a welcoming, judgment-free space. I encourage you to become your own "joy advocate" and take a class. I LOVE watching players of all ages rediscover the "child in them."

I look forward to meeting you and hope you will become a little “Joy Crazy” for pickleball like me! ☀️

WHAT IF I ALREADY PLAY PICKLEBALL?

You are always welcome to take the Intro class if you feel like a "refresher" is needed—plus it comes with a free Daisy Doubles. However, if you already play pickleball, know the rules and basic position etiquette, then it's time to jump right into a Daisy Doubles session with us! (See details above.)

MEDICAL NOTE:

Pickleball can be a fast-paced sport. Prior experience in racket sports or athletic activities is helpful, but not required. If you are recovering from an injury, struggle with balance, or have a chronic condition that may impact your play please check with your doctor first. I want to make this as barrier-free as possible, send me a direct message (DM) with any accommodation needs.

ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY:

By signing up as a member of the Joy Crazy™ Pickleball (JCP) MeetUp group and/or attending any event, you and your guests or minors (if applicable) accept that pickleball is a physical activity and fully assume all risks associated with such participation, including accident, illness, or injury including travel to and from the event. You agree to be responsible for your own safety and equipment; and realize that obstacles on the property, non-group members, and inclement weather, may be present.  You and your successors agree to hold all Organizers and other JCP members harmless in the event of equipment loss or damage, injury, illness, or death.

$49.00
6 seats left
INTRO TO PICKLEBALL, 12/13, NW PDX - Includes one FREE Daisy Doubles!

INTRO TO PICKLEBALL, 12/13, NW PDX - Includes one FREE Daisy Doubles!

Friendly House, 1737 NW 26th Ave, Portland, OR, US

JOY CRAZY® INTRODUCTION TO PICKLEBALL
** ALL SUPPLIES PROVIDED **
** CERTIFIED INSTRUCTOR **

"...I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend Shannon as an instructor. She is organized, keeps things moving, gives clear instruction about safety, etiquette, scorekeeping and rules, and provides everything you need to play. I'll be taking more classes with Shannon. Happy playing!" --Elin Kordahl, Yelp! Review

WHAT IS JOY CRAZY® INTRODUCTION TO PICKLEBALL?
A fun way to learn to play pickleball, on a safe wooden gym floor!

All supplies provided!

More than "how to play pickleball," this five-star rated, 90-minute class "on-boards" you to the world of pickleball. It includes:

  • The rules of pickleball and how to score
  • Proper position etiquette and strategy
  • Foundational movement skills
  • Safety recommendations to have fun and avoid injury
  • PLUS... Each attendee gets one FREE round-robin "Daisy Doubles" pickleball game session with the purchase of this Intro class. (See "Fee" details below.)

WHO SHOULD TAKE THIS CLASS?

  • Individuals - No partner needed, make new friends!
  • Couples/Friends/Siblings - Enjoy learning together
  • Anyone 13 or older with little or no pickleball experience
  • Never played a sport? No problem, we build skills step-by-step!
  • Previous students. Many students repeat this class and bring their spouse, friend, or child (13 and up welcome with an adult)

• • Do you have a group of eight players (8)? Please contact Joy Crazy®, LLC via text: 971/319/2831 or email: shannon@joycrazy.com, to schedule your own class.

WHAT DOES THE CLASS FEE COVER?

  • Instruction by Shannon Diffenderffer, M.Ed, a Certified IPTPA Pickleball Instructor
  • All supplies: paddles, balls, and nets
  • Indoor gym rental - learn on a safer/wood floor
  • Small class size - Max 8 students
  • A complimentary (FREE) Joy Crazy® Daisy Doubles coached round-robin pickleball session to be used within 60 days of attending the "Intro" class

A full refund is available if you cancel within 48 hours of the start of class. Meetup's refund processing system is *not* automatic. A request for refund must be sent to class organizer, Shannon Diffenderffer, via a Meetup Direct Message (DM) or send an email to: shannon@joycrazy.com

HOW DO I PAY AND RESERVE MY SPOT?

  1. Click "Attend/RSVP." You may reserve one additional guest spot...simply add "+1 guest". (RSVPing for 3 or more? Please text Joy Crazy®, LLC at 971/319/2831 or email shannon@joycrazy.com, for assistance.)
  2. If you are not taken to a payment/checkout screen, the class is full. See "waitlist" below.
  3. You may see an additional transaction "fee" at checkout if you are not a "Meetup+" (Premium) member.

Questions? Text Joy Crazy®, LLC business cell: 971/319/2831.

IS THERE AN AUTOMATED WAITLIST?
This is a bit clunky, but it works:

  1. In the comment section of *this* event, ask to be added to the waitlist
  2. Check back, especially on the day of class
  3. If a spot opens up, you will be notified via Meetup direct message unless you want to be notified by text (send a quick message to the Joy Crazy business cell [971/319/2831] so I have your number).

WHERE IS THE CLASS TAUGHT?
Friendly House community center in NW Portland, 1737 NW 26th Ave, Portland OR 97210 (Bus lines: 15, 26, 77). Parking info below.

WHAT CAN I DO WHILE I WAIT?

  1. Read the Joy Crazy Life Newsletter to get pickleball tips, learn where to play and keep up with community news—and be sure to subscribe to the newsletter!
  2. Follow the @JoyCrazy_ Instagram page, where Shannon routinely posts class photos, and joy-related items
  3. Learn more about Shannon and why Joy Crazy®, LLC was selected a "Small Business Success Story" by the SBDC
  4. See Shannon's curated list of items that help her stay "Joy Crazy" including pickleball gear, books, home supplies and more at JoyCrazy.shop

WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?

  1. Athletic attire, layers are best
  2. Hard-soled, flat-court shoes. Soft-soled running shoes may stick to the floor, free to bring more than one pair to try
  3. Eye protection is recommended, but not required
  4. Ball cap or visor (the gym lights are bright)

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

  1. Water or electrolyte drink
  2. Pickleball paddle if you have one, otherwise paddles are supplied.
  3. Cellphone to take "notes"

WHERE SHOULD I PARK?
Arrive 15 minutes early as you may need to circle the neighborhood to find free street parking, and it allows you time to fill your water bottle, use restroom, etc. There are two Accessible Parking spots near the front of the building (on NW Thurman St and on NW 26th Ave).

WHAT IS THE LATE ARRIVAL POLICY?
This 90-minute class will start on time. Out of respect for your classmates, if you are more than 10 minutes late you will *not* be admitted.

WHAT IS THE MEDICAL REMINDER?
Pickleball is a cross between tennis, badminton, and ping pong. If you are recovering from an injury, struggle with balance, or have a chronic condition that may impact your play please check with your doctor before attending. I am happy to help with any accommodations and welcome service animals!

WHAT IS THE "ASSUMPTION OF RISK AND WAIVER OF LIABILITY?"
By signing up as a member of the Joy Crazy® Pickleball (JCP) MeetUp group and/or attending this event, you and your guests or minors (if applicable) accept that pickleball is a physical activity and fully assume all risks associated with such participation, including, and not limited to, accident, illness, or injury including travel to and from the event. You agree to be responsible for your own safety and equipment; and realize that obstacles on the property, non-group members, and inclement weather, may be present. You and your successors agree to hold all Organizers and other JCP members harmless in the event of equipment loss or damage, injury, illness, or death.

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