Designed to Spark Pickleball Joy: How Creativity, Community, and Courage Launched 4Joy Paddles
- Jun 30
- 3 min read
By Stacey Cleary | Founder of 4Joy Sports
In the summer of 2020, when the world slowed down and so much of life was on pause, I discovered something joyful: pickleball.
With gyms closed and routines upended, the outdoor courts became a sanctuary. It wasn’t just about the game—it was the energy, the laughter, the way people of all ages and backgrounds came together to play, connect, and feel joy during uncertain times. I didn’t know it then, but that small spark would become the beginning of something much bigger.
A year later, I faced an unexpected health scare that pulled me off the court for nearly a year. It was a difficult time, but it taught me something profound: we’re stronger than we think. Sometimes, life forces us to pause, reflect, and return with even greater purpose. That’s what happened to me.
When I finally made it back to the court, I came with a new sense of clarity—and creativity. I didn’t just want to play. I wanted to contribute. I wanted to make a difference.
A Paddle Brand That Dares to Be Different
What I noticed most when I came back wasn’t just how much I had missed the game—it was how much room there was for new joyful creative expression. Everywhere I looked, paddles were plain, predictable, and lacking personality. I kept thinking: Pickleball is vibrant, social, and fun—why don’t the paddles reflect that?
That question stayed with me, and eventually became a mission. As an artist, I’ve always loved design and artistic creativity, and I started imagining high quality performance level paddles that looked as joyful as the sport made me feel—colorful, creative, and thoughtfully designed.
With the encouragement of my pickleball friends (who immediately lit up when I shared the idea), I took a leap of faith and launched 4Joy Sports. Our paddles are made for performance and personality. Each one is infused with bold graphics, custom features, and heartfelt intention.
Leading With Vision, Not Just Velocity
Building 4Joy hasn’t just been a business journey—it’s been a leadership lesson in trusting your instincts and following your passion, even when the path isn’t perfect.
As a founder, I lead with vision: to create a brand that celebrates self-expression, empowers community, and invites people to play boldly.
From our signature elongated handles to the soft, specialty grip, every element of our paddles is crafted with care.
But what I’m most proud of is the dynamic energy we’re creating around it. Our customers feel like part of a movement. They’re playing with more confidence, giving paddles as gifts, starting family games, and telling us that 4Joy represents more than just sports—it represents community.
The Power of Community, Creativity—and Quick Thinking
If there’s one thing that’s guided me through every challenge and triumph, it’s community. The pickleball world is incredibly supportive—full of people who lift each other up, welcome newcomers, and cheer for each other.
But one of the reasons I really love pickleball is because it’s not just physical—it’s mental. The game requires constant creative problem-solving. You have to analyze your opponents’ moves in real time, make split-second decisions, and adapt your strategy on the fly. It’s a perfect blend of instinct, intellect, and improvisation—which, to me, is the essence of creativity. That dynamic flow is what keeps me coming back to the court and what inspires so much of what we build at 4Joy. And one of the many benefits of 4Joy paddles is that they’re easy to pick out when your turn is up “on the rack,” thanks to their vibrant colors and bold patterns.
4Joy is rooted in that same spirit. We don’t just sell paddles; we celebrate the stories of the people holding them. We believe joy multiplies when it’s shared—on the court, in conversation, and through colorful design that sparks smiles.
For me, this is purpose-driven leadership: not just running a business, but creating something that inspires play, connection, and creativity.
RISE & THRIVE: What It Means to Me
To rise is to take a chance. To believe in an idea and be bold enough to bring it to life.
To thrive is to do it with heart—and invite others to do the same.
4Joy was born from a moment of stillness, shaped by resilience, and driven by a desire to brighten the world—one paddle at a time. For any woman wondering if she’s ready to lead, to start something new, or to stand out by being herself—my message is simple: the world needs your joy. Go for it.
Connect With Stacey
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