Team APC's Helen To's Pickleball Journey Through U.S. Military Bases in Europe
Two years ago, Team APC’s Helen To picked up a paddle and tried pickleball—just for fun. Fast-forward to today, and that "silly sport" has taken her across Europe, teaching and connecting with U.S. military communities stationed abroad.
This incredible journey was part of a tour organized by ProSportsMVP through the Armed Forces Entertainment, a program dedicated to providing high-quality entertainment and morale-boosting experiences to U.S. service members worldwide.
“Never would’ve thought when I picked up a silly sport called pickleball 2 years ago that it would lead me to travel the world and provide morale-boosting services to our US military.”
In March 2025, Helen embarked on a 23-day tour (March 1–23), visiting seven countries—including Germany and Italy—and conducting clinics at 12 U.S. military bases. It was a whirlwind adventure with 17 flights, packed pickleball courts, and countless unforgettable moments.
One of the standout moments came during a clinic when ten strangers ended the session with better pickleball skills, exchanged phone numbers, and planned to start a pickleball club right there at the base.
“Pickleball is truly a community sport.”
Each base had a unique vibe. At one location, Helen walked through a historic underground hospital—an incredibly impactful moment for her as someone who works in a hospital herself. The facility included systems of locks and emergency measures that allowed it to be sealed off if needed.
“One of the coolest parts of the trip was walking through and learning about an underground hospital at one of the bases...”
The pickleball clinics were as diverse as the locations. Participants ranged from toddlers as young as 4 to enthusiastic players in their 70s. Helen, alongside three other professional pickleball players, adapted her teaching style for all skill levels, creating an experience as fun as it was instructional.
“It was a great experience learning how to teach pickleball players of all skill levels and ages... Also, it was a great experience seeing how the other three pickleball pros coached.”
Over the 23-day tour, Helen flew 17 times, visited six countries, and taught clinics on 12 U.S. military bases—bringing connection, joy, and a growing love for pickleball everywhere she went.
Whether she was rallying with active-duty service members, coaching military spouses, or handing paddles to kids who'd never played before, Helen proved that pickleball is more than just a sport—it's a bridge for community and camaraderie.
Make sure to follow Helen’s pickleball adventures on Instagram!
