San Diego’s Anywhere Pickleball has teamed up with the Ukrainian Pickleball Federation (UPF) to launch the Freedom Fighter Paddle, a USA Pickleball-approved paddle that not only meets competitive play standards but also supports Ukrainian pickleball players. The paddle’s design is a tribute to Ukraine, featuring the nation’s blue and yellow flag colors, along with the Leleka (white stork) and the Tryzub, Ukraine’s trident emblem. It also includes a translated line from the Ukrainian poet Taras Shevchenko: “Fight and you shall overcome,” showcasing a deep cultural resonance. The artwork was crafted by Ukrainian artists Dasha Volkova and Andrii Voloshyn, who are currently residing in the Netherlands.
This collaboration marks Anywhere Pickleball as the UPF’s inaugural American strategic partner since June 2025. Their partnership has facilitated support for various Ukrainian pickleball events, most notably the First Ukrainian Veterans Pickleball Championship, which took place in Kyiv from March 31 to April 5, 2026. The championship was a significant event, gathering 104 combat veterans from 20 regions across Ukraine. During the tournament, the Freedom Fighter Paddle was prominently featured and was also awarded to the tournament’s Fantastic Team recipients, two combat amputees from the Sumy region who earned a bronze medal together.
The Freedom Fighter Paddle initiative employs a “Gift 1, Get 1” model, where for every paddle purchased, a corresponding paddle is donated to a Ukrainian pickleball player through the UPF. This program extends to corporate clients who purchase paddles in bulk for purposes like employee gifts, client appreciation, or corporate social responsibility efforts. Through the same charitable arrangement, matching paddles are delivered to Ukrainian players, fostering the growth of pickleball in the country.
UPF President Volodymyr Svirskii expressed that this initiative is pivotal in advancing pickleball within Ukraine, while also promoting participation and achievement among players. Complementing this sentiment, UPF co-founder and Director of Strategic Partnerships Anna Glotova emphasized that sports offer vital opportunities for connection and healing, especially for those living with life-altering injuries. The Freedom Fighter Paddle is available for purchase online, with further details accessible through the website and corporate inquiries directed via email.
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