The Hemşin Story

It all began during a summer holiday in the Hemşin district of Rize. After meeting the children of families who make their living largely by picking tea, Fahri Paslı decided to share pickleball — the sport he had played and taught for years in the United States — with these youngsters.

Training that started with paddles, balls and nets brought from America quickly bore fruit. A new court, opened with the District Governor's support, allowed the young athletes to train in better conditions.

Today Hemşin proudly carries the motto "big achievements from a small town" with its licensed athletes, the medals returning from tournaments and its growing community.