True Stories of Pickleball, Friendship & Belonging
Eighteen true stories about friendship, resilience, and the unexpected ways our lives change when we have the courage to show up.
Ebook July 1, 2026 · Hardcover August 1, 2026
Even if you've never picked up a paddle.
This is a book about friendship, belonging, resilience, and personal growth. Pickleball is simply the backdrop — the place where strangers became neighbors, where confidence was found later in life, and where new chapters quietly began. You don't have to love the game to love these stories. You just have to love people.
Stories of unexpected connections that turned into the friendships people needed most.
For anyone who has ever wondered, “Where are my people?” — these stories will feel like home.
Real people rebuilding after loss, finding confidence, and discovering what one small “yes” can do.
Eighteen heartfelt, true stories that reveal the resilience, courage, and connection found in everyday lives.
- ✓ A widow rebuilding after unimaginable loss
- ✓ A woman finding confidence later in life
- ✓ Friendships that began with a simple invitation
- ✓ People discovering they weren't too old to start over
- ✓ The unexpected ways the community changes us
Most journals begin with a blank page.
Quietly Brave begins with a story.
Inspired by the lessons and themes from Came for the Game, Stayed for the People, this companion journal helps readers go deeper through guided reflection and meaningful prompts inspired by real stories of friendship, resilience, belonging, and growth.
Many books leave us feeling inspired.
But inspiration alone doesn't create transformation.
Each reflection begins with a story and gently guides you inward, helping you connect the lessons to your own life.
What You'll Find Inside
This isn't just a journal.
It's an invitation to reconnect with yourself and begin writing your next chapter with intention.
Free Book Club Discussion Guide
Thoughtful questions, conversation starters, and reflection prompts designed to spark meaningful conversation about friendship, belonging, and the courage to show up. Enter your email to download it free.
I'm an author, speaker, pickleball coach, and community builder based in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida. My work is rooted in one simple belief — that showing up, even when it's scary, can change your life.
For years I've watched friendships form, confidence return, and lives quietly transform in the most unexpected places. Those stories inspired this book. They're the reason I write, speak, and gather people together — to help you find your confidence, your people, and your joy.
What readers, friends, and fellow community members are saying.
“I definitely feel as though I have found my 'people.' Thank you for bringing us all together.”
“Colleen made it a safe space for us to learn, create community, and challenge ourselves. If you're hesitant to jump in — just do it.”
“More than a class — an experience and a community. Everyone is so supportive and encouraging.”
More early reader endorsements coming soon.
Choose the format that fits your reading life. Both editions are available for pre-order now.
Perfect for travel, beach days, and reading on the go. Take 18 inspiring stories with you anywhere.
A beautiful keepsake edition — a thoughtful gift for friends, book clubs, and the women in your life.
Book Launch Celebration
August 2026 · Santa Rosa Beach, FL
Join Colleen and the community for an evening of storytelling, friendship, and celebration as Came for the Game, Stayed for the People officially launches into the world. Details and RSVP info coming soon.
Get Launch Updates
Colleen speaks at book clubs, podcasts, conferences, and community events on the themes of friendship, belonging, resilience, and the courage to show up.
- ✓ Book club visits (in person & virtual)
- ✓ Podcast interviews
- ✓ Conferences & keynote events
- ✓ Women's groups & community gatherings
Live the Book in Real Life
October 29 – November 1, 2026 · Gulf Shores, AL
Step away from the demands of everyday life for four days of pickleball, wellness, meaningful connection, and renewal. The retreat brings the heart of the book to life — friendship, belonging, and the joy of saying yes. Come exactly as you are.
See the RetreatJoin the email community for first looks at the book, behind-the-scenes stories, journal prompts, and gentle inspiration to help you show up — for yourself and for the people who matter most.
