Soldier On YEG Pickleball - 2026 - Edmonton, AB

The application period for Soldier On members wishing to participate in the Soldier On YEG Pickleball event is now open. The application deadline is 22 Jan 26.

AIM AND SCOPE OF EVENT:  
Soldier On, in collaboration with the YEG Pickleball, will host an introduction to the sport of Pickleball on 11 Feb 26 in Edmonton, AB.    This event will allow for 19 ill/injured serving or retired members of the Canadian Armed Forces to participate in introductory and/or intermediate Pickleball lessons with expert instruction. Members will also participate in game play and a fun round robin.  

This activity will bring together both serving and retired ill/injured CAF members, allowing participants to connect through peer support and encourage a healthy, active and creative lifestyle.   This event is open to all levels but will be instructed at a beginner and intermediate level.  Equipment will be provided if necessary.   

Clean indoor shoes and athletic clothing is required.  

Adaptive compatible.  

The number of Soldier On participants is limited to 19.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: 
Any serving member or veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) from the Edmonton geographical area who acquired a permanent physical or mental health illness or injury while enrolled as a member of the CAF; whether attributable or not to service.

Selected Serving members will require the approval of their Chain of Command to participate. 

DRAFT SCHEDULE OF EVENTS.  

11 Feb 25 
09:45hrs:  Arrive at YEG Pickleball
09:55hrs: Welcome brief/Introductions
10:20hrs: Stretching
10:30hrs: Break into lessons (Beginner/Intermediate) 
12:00hrs: Lunch at YEG Pickleball
13:00hrs to 15:00 hrs: Round Robin play.  (doubles) 

TRANSPORTATION & MEALS:
Participants are advised that transportation will not be provided by Soldier On for this event. Participants will be required to arrange their own travel to and from the event location. The following meal will be provided during the event: LUNCH

Mental & Physical Requirements:
Applicants must be able to tolerate 5 hours of light/moderate paced activities for 1 day.  Due to the busy activity schedule, applicants must have a limited requirement for rest throughout the day.    

Applicants will be joined with other ill/injured members and civilians, and therefore should be able to function in a social environment. 

Below is a summary of common physical and mental health requirements for safely participating in the activities of the Pickleball event. These guidelines are general, and participants should assess their personal readiness and consult with their healthcare provider if needed. 

Pickleball is an adaptive compatible paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong using a paddle and plastic ball with holes. It is a game that is appropriate for players of all ages and skill levels. Rules for pickleball are simple, making it a great introductory sport. It can also be quite the challenging, fast-paced, and competitive game when people become more experienced at playing.   If you are looking for some great exercise for your mind and body, playing pickleball allows you to work on your balance, agility, reflexes, and hand-eye coordination without putting excessive strains on your body. Pickleball is a wonderful alternative for players who used to play tennis, but have physical limitations such as hip, shoulder, knee, or other joint problems.