THE RIAH FOUNDATION

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Mission & What We Do

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Different Strokes Pickleball Group is committed to bridging the gap in certified coaching representation for Black communities in Chicago and throughout the Midwest. We use the sport of pickleball as a transformative tool to engage people of all ages, foster personal growth, promote healthy lifestyles, and build a supportive community. Our goal is to create inclusive spaces where quality coaching, mentorship, and community-building thrive.

We offer:

• After-school pickleball enrichment programs

• Private and group lessons

• Adult and youth clinics

• Community tournaments

• Comprehensive coaching certification

 

Our programs are designed to make pickleball accessible to everyone, providing top-notch instruction to underserved communities and creating opportunities for skill development and lifelong wellness.

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Program Overview

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Different Strokes Pickleball Group is committed to bridging gaps in recreational opportunities, particularly in underserved communities. We aim to create a welcoming environment where players of all backgrounds can learn, grow, and connect through the sport of pickleball. By offering a variety of programs, we make it possible for anyone to enjoy the physical, social, and mental benefits that come from playing and engaging in this fast-growing sport.

 

Vision Statement

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To empower individuals and strengthen communities by making pickleball a platform for mentorship, inclusivity, and personal growth. Different Strokes Pickleball Group envisions a future where diverse, certified coaches lead in transforming lives across the Midwest, creating vibrant spaces for learning, wellness, and lasting connections through the sport of pickleball.

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Our Founder: Mario Bates

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Mario Bates founded Different Strokes Pickleball Group to meet the need for Black certified coaches in Greater Chicago and the Midwest. A person in long-term recovery for over 31 years, Bates brings his passion for mentorship and positive change to his work, which began with his not-for-profit group, Riah International. Through Riah International, Bates mentors boys aged 9 to 14, providing them with a foundation in life skills and drug- and alcohol-free living.

After discovering the sport of pickleball, Bates realized its potential to impact lives through mentorship. He implemented a program in Chicago public schools that paired pickleball instruction with positive guidance for students. Inspired by his own journey and support from fellow pickleball enthusiasts in Atlanta, he developed a certification program for aspiring coaches. These initiatives led to the creation of Different Strokes Pickleball Group, where his commitment to mentorship, inclusivity, and community development continues to grow.