News Summary
In Las Vegas, military veterans are discovering a sense of community and healing through pickleball. Organized by the Southern Pickleball Coalition, sessions at Dula Gym provide a welcoming space for veterans to engage socially and physically. Led by volunteers, including former service members, the program emphasizes inclusivity and support among participants. Many veterans report significant improvements in their well-being, including weight loss and renewed self-esteem, making these pickleball sessions a vital part of their rehabilitation journey.
Las Vegas – Military veterans in Las Vegas are finding healing and community through an engaging activity—pickleball. The program, organized by the Southern Pickleball Coalition, is hosted at Dula Gym every Tuesday morning. Participants are primarily veterans who are seeking social interaction and physical activity as part of their rehabilitation journey.
Led by volunteers, including Marine Corps veteran Augie Costanzo, the sessions aim to foster connection and movement among the participants. Costanzo highlights the importance of pickleball in keeping veterans engaged and uplifting their spirits. Many participants have expressed how the sport helps them combat feelings of isolation and encourages them to stay active.
Among the participants is Glenn Westman, a former Coast Guard veteran, who refers to pickleball as a second calling. In just four months of playing, Westman experienced a significant weight loss of 46 pounds and began teaching not only children but also fellow veterans. His involvement in the program has deepened his passion for the game and provided him with a rewarding outlet.
The program prioritizes inclusivity, welcoming everyone, including individuals with disabilities. Jason Kelley, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, participates in the sessions and appreciates how pickleball helps recreate the camaraderie that is often felt in the military. For Kelley, the sport is not just a game, but a way to address the unique challenges he faces due to his condition.
Everett Lowry, a recreational therapist with the Paralyzed Veterans of America Nevada Chapter, is committed to supporting the veterans involved in the program. He finds fulfillment in his role as he witnesses the positive impact of the pickleball sessions on the veterans’ lives. Many participants report feeling a renewed sense of belonging and happiness through their engagement with the program.
The Dula Gym pickleball sessions are conducted multiple times a week, fostering community collaboration and volunteer coaching. This structure not only creates a cooperative environment but also allows veterans to support one another while building their skills in the sport. Westman reflects on his role with gratitude, emphasizing the significance of enhancing participants’ self-esteem and personal growth through their involvement in pickleball.
For many veterans, the pickleball program serves as a crucial lifeline, providing opportunities for socialization and physical fitness that are vital for their overall well-being. The combination of movement, community, and shared experiences through the sport is proving to be a transformative element for those seeking healing after their military service.
As the sessions continue to grow in attendance and participation, the Southern Pickleball Coalition remains dedicated to supporting veterans in their pursuit of both physical and emotional well-being through this lively sport. The program not only promotes fitness but also fosters friendships and support systems that are essential for veterans reintegrating into civilian life.
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Additional Resources
- KTNV: Las Vegas Veterans Find Healing Through Pickleball Program
- Boulder City Review: Pickleball Courts Break Ground at Veterans Park
- Nevada Business: Luke Day 2025 – A Night of Pickleball
- Forbes: Anna Leigh Waters Secures 29th Career Triple Crown
- Military.com: Veterans Day Events
- Wikipedia: Pickleball
- Google Search: Pickleball Veterans
- Google Scholar: Pickleball Rehabilitation
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pickleball
- Google News: Pickleball Community
Author: STAFF HERE LAS VEGAS WRITER
LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER The LAS VEGAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERELasVegas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Las Vegas, Clark County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Electric Daisy Carnival, World Series of Poker, and Consumer Electronics Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce and Three Square Food Bank, plus leading businesses in hospitality and entertainment that power the local economy such as MGM Resorts International, Caesars Entertainment, and Las Vegas Sands. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Nevada's dynamic landscape.
