USA Pickleball Elects Stephanie Russell as Board Chair
January 8, 2026
USA Pickleball recently announced the election of Stephanie Russell as Chair of the USA Pickleball Board of Directors. Her term began on Jan. 1
A recreational pickleball player with deep experience in governance and law, and four years’ experience on the Board, Russell brings a strong understanding of both organizational leadership and the community that fuels pickleball’s rapid growth.
“Stephanie has been an invaluable member of our Board for the past four years and is exceptionally qualified to lead USA Pickleball into its next chapter,” said outgoing Board Chair Robert Quicksilver. “She brings sound judgment, strategic perspective, and a deep appreciation for the pickleball community. I have complete confidence in her ability to build on our momentum and take USA Pickleball to new heights.”
Russell holds a juris doctor from the University of Missouri and a Master of Business Administration from Washington University. She has 30 years of legal experience and has spent the past 19 years working with Boards of Directors across both for-profit and nonprofit organizations, including serving as Assistant Secretary and compliance liaison to the Board of an S&P 500 company. She currently serves as a Senior Counsel at The Boeing Company.
“Pickleball has a rare ability to connect people across ages and backgrounds, and that sense of community is what makes this sport so special,” said Russell. “USA Pickleball is at an important point in its growth, and strong governance will be critical to sustaining that momentum. I’m honored to step into this role and support the organization’s mission ‘to promote the development and growth of pickleball in the United States’ and serve the interests of the pickleball community nationwide.”
Departing Board Members
USA Pickleball also recognizes Board Chair Robert Quicksilver and Board Member Philip Bullen, who conclude their Board terms at the end of 2025. Their leadership guided the organization through a period of unprecedented growth, marked by strengthened governance, expanded membership, and the elevation of the sport’s national visibility.
“Robert and Philip have played key roles in shaping USA Pickleball during a transformative era for the sport,” said incoming Chair Stephanie Russell. “We are deeply grateful for their leadership, commitment, and lasting impact.”