Pickle Rage in Fort Myers gives Special Olympics athletes free court time

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK) — A new indoor pickleball facility is opening its courts to Special Olympics athletes for free, giving them a place to compete, learn new skills and have fun.

Pickle Rage in Fort Myers is rooted in something much older for owner Edwin Pickett. He volunteered with Special Olympics himself when he was a teenager, and now he's giving back by opening his courts to these athletes at no cost.

Whitney Spielman is not just playing pickleball—she's winning.

"A lot of work, lots and lots of work, lots and lots of practice, and lots and lots of everything," Spielman said.

Spielman says she and her partner are national silver champions. At Pickle Rage, the focus is on having fun and getting better.

Frankie Tosiani is new to the sport, but he's already learning the basics.

"The backhand, the right, the right hand, the forehand. It's easy!" Tosiani said.

Special Olympics coach and volunteer Debbie Hawkins says the athletes want to be part of things.

"They call it Special Olympics for a reason. Every single one of our athletes is very special in their own way, and you know they want to be a part of things," Hawkins said.

That's why Pickle Rage wants these courts to be open to them free of charge.

"When I was in high school, I actually volunteered for the Special Olympics, so I've always had a special place in my heart for them," Pickett said.

For Pickett, it's a full circle moment turning into a chance to give back.

"I remember the kids running and doing all the activities and having a good time, and immediately it went back to that in my mind," Pickett said.

The Special Olympics group also has an area competition coming up Sept. 13 at Veterans Park in Naples.