In a new partnership targeting older adults, Sanofi and USA Pickleball have launched the “Serve Up Protection” campaign to raise awareness of COVID-19 prevention and vaccine options, including NUVAXOVID, a protein-based, non-mRNA vaccine approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Key Takeaways
- Sanofi and USA Pickleball have partnered on the “Serve Up Protection” campaign.
- The initiative focuses on educating older adults about COVID-19 prevention.
- The campaign highlights NUVAXOVID, a protein-based, non-mRNA vaccine.
- Pickleball communities will be used to reach older players through events, media and trusted voices.
Why Pickleball is the Perfect Partner
Pickleball has become increasingly popular among older adults, offering opportunities for exercise, social interaction and community connection.
That makes the sport a natural platform for sharing health information. However, concerns about vaccination remain among some older adults. The campaign points to nearly 70% of adults aged 65 and above as being hesitant, with concerns including potential side effects and confusion around changing health guidance.
“Concerns about potential vaccine side effects can be a barrier to vaccination for older adults, who don’t want disruption in their daily lives and hobbies,” said Sriram Jambunathan, Head of Marketing & Commercial Strategy, US Vaccines at Sanofi.
“By teaming up with USA Pickleball on Serve Up Protection, we’re educating older adults that NUVAXOVID can help provide powerful protection against COVID-19 with manageable side effects.”
How the “Serve Up Protection” Campaign Works
The campaign will use pickleball’s close-knit communities to share information through a range of channels. This includes multimedia platforms, trusted pickleball voices and fan experiences at major events.
One of the key activations will take place at the USA Pickleball National Championships in San Diego this November, bringing the campaign directly to one of the sport’s major gatherings.
Christian Portaro, Vice President of Partnerships at USA Pickleball, highlighted the importance of helping players make informed decisions about their health.
“By helping players better understand risk and prevention options, we’re supporting their ability to stay active, connected, and on the court,” Portaro said.
Pickleball’s Growing Role in Community Well-being
Pickleball’s accessibility has helped make it particularly popular across different age groups and skill levels. Its relatively low cost and low barrier to entry have also helped foster strong local and national communities.
The “Serve Up Protection” campaign builds on those existing connections by bringing health education into the spaces where older players already spend time.
For Sanofi and USA Pickleball, the partnership shows how the sport’s growing community can be used to share important information about COVID-19 prevention and vaccination options, while helping older adults stay active and connected.
