Michael de Groot – the regional director for Pickleball England in the West Midlands – has picked up a big award.
He was recently announced as a winner at the Places for People Community Matters Awards, which recognise and celebrate inspiring folk who are helping to create and support thriving communities for everyone.
Michael was nominated by Stuart Booton, the general manager at Wyre Forest Leisure Centre in Kidderminster, in recognition for his many achievements in establishing the sport and increasing participation across the region, including supporting the University of the Third Age to introduce regular pickleball sessions, and expanding accessibility via the local leisure centre.
And his win has been hailed by others in the pickleball community, who have described him as “a true champion for the people and for pickleball” who has created “a great and inclusive community”.
