Beyond the Court: How the Collin County Young Republicans Mastered Grassroots Engagement

CCYR Pickleball had over 160 attendees! Photo credit: CCYR

Collin County Young Republicans’ SOLD OUT Pickleball event exceeded my expectations.  Sporting events can be overstimulating with people eager to play and others cheering on in a loud, enclosed venue.  That was not the case at Chicken N Pickle in Allen, Texas.  The layout of the complex included indoor and outdoor courts.  The cool weather allowed us to take a group picture before playing and watching pickleball matches outside.  The spacious venue was new, clean, and nowhere near loud, which I loved.

As usual, CCYR promoted Pickleball multiple times and weeks in advance on their digital marketing platforms.  The invitation included important details such as a registration fee.  Days before, Chicken N Pickle sent waivers to sign.  I registered, paid, and signed a waiver, which smoothed the check-in process.

Appetizers were included, which I was expecting chicken fingers.  To my pleasant surprise, Chicken N Pickle provided a full breakfast buffet menu that included brisket bites, bacon, waffles, chicken fingers, yogurt, and watermelon.  A sponsor provided mimosas served by attentive staff.

Pickleball was a huge draw because the key attendees were Collin County State Representatives Matt Shaheen and Jeff Leach.  Everyone had the opportunity to meet, take pics and play pickleball with them. State Representative Candy Noble also attended showing her support for her colleagues. In addition, candidates attended, played pickleball, and mingled with voters.

State Reps Jeff Leach (L) and Matt Shaheen (R) with CCYR Chair Shelby Johnston

Collin County Young Republicans’ Pickleball was full of fun and fellowship with elected officials interacting with their constituents and new candidates connecting with future voters.  Critical in grassroots engagement!  Can’t go without mentioning the event sponsors; great to have A Better Dallas (who kicked off Pickleball), Plano Republican Women, X-Fact-R Consulting, Collin County Republican Men’s Club, Dave Shafer, and Collin County Conservative Republicans join us! What a wonderful way to spend a Saturday!

Chicken N Pickle's spacious outdoor venue allowed plenty of space to socialize!

Pickleball match!

Chris Klement, President of A Better Dallas, kicking off Pickleball!

Group picture with Michael Hewitt for HD 70 (second from right). Photo credit: Michael Hewitt