Local Players Relishing Pickleball
thepilot.com, December 28, 2012
Mager sees Pickleball establishing a firm footprint in the area for years to come.
“Eventually, we would like to see all of the tennis courts at No. 6 converted to Pickleball courts,” he said. “Given the nature of the tennis facilities at the main club, and the lack of use at the tennis facility at No. 6, one day I see at least eight to 10 courts of Pickleball at Pinehurst.
“I’d like to see expansion of some of the unused tennis facilities in the public venues. We would love to expand Pickleball to these areas.”
If interest in the sport continues to grow at its steady pace, the surrounding communities may be “in a pickle” trying to find new locations to play.
CLICK HERE for full story
Friday, December 28, 2012
Pickleball picks up in popularity
yoursun.net, December 28, 2012, Punta Gorda, FL
Residents around Southwest Florida are crowding courts to play pickleball, which is sort of like tennis on a badminton-sized court.
Area government park departments have started designating courts and hours for the fast-paced, tennis-like game that already has become an event at the Senior Games.
“It’s really lots of fun,” Gillis said. “I hope more parks pick it up.”
Lazy River Village in North Port may do just that.
Residents there will be voting Jan. 17, 2013, at their annual meeting to consider converting one tennis court into three pickleball courts, and building a new tennis court, said Justine Mackie, community association manager at Lazy River. CLICK HERE for full story.
yoursun.net, December 28, 2012, Punta Gorda, FL
Friday, December 21, 2012
HOLI-DAZE PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT
Submitted by Al Rosatti,
Ambassador, The Villages, Fl
The Holi-Daze Pickleball Tournament is now an annual event with the pickleball players at the Bacall Recreation Center in The Villages, FL. Dressed in their festive attire the group poses for the camera!
Congratulations to the winning team of Nancy Rush and Bob Wilkinson....Well played matches by all.
Ambassador, The Villages, Fl
The Holi-Daze Pickleball Tournament is now an annual event with the pickleball players at the Bacall Recreation Center in The Villages, FL. Dressed in their festive attire the group poses for the camera!
Congratulations to the winning team of Nancy Rush and Bob Wilkinson....Well played matches by all.
Pinehurst players find 'instantaneous love' on the Pickleball court
FayObserver.com, Dec. 21, 2012, Fayetteville, NC
When they held the first games in April at Pinehurst Resort, two or three people showed up, Van Zanten said. A group of Pickleball players from Cary demonstrated the sport in June. Later in the summer, about 15 to 20 people were playing. Now about 35 are playing regularly, Van Zanten said. "In wintertime we thought it would slow down, but it hasn't," he said. Van Zanten said he expects as many as 50 people will be playing by May. The group already meets six times a week for games. "We were blown away by how fast this has taken hold," he said. "Everybody has a lot of fun."
When they held the first games in April at Pinehurst Resort, two or three people showed up, Van Zanten said. A group of Pickleball players from Cary demonstrated the sport in June. Later in the summer, about 15 to 20 people were playing. Now about 35 are playing regularly, Van Zanten said. "In wintertime we thought it would slow down, but it hasn't," he said. Van Zanten said he expects as many as 50 people will be playing by May. The group already meets six times a week for games. "We were blown away by how fast this has taken hold," he said. "Everybody has a lot of fun."
Friday, December 14, 2012
Tanglewood Winter Classic Skills Tournament - Deadline Approaching
Hi Pickleball Players,
Just a quick reminder that the Tanglewood Winter Classic Skills Tournament entry deadline is fast approaching. Forms are due this week.
If you don't have a registration form, there is a link here on the Atlantic South website or you may go to our website www.pickleballspecialties.com and download it from there.
Due to the schedule of the shirt shop, we need your registration ASAP in order to get the shirts ordered.
Tanglewood has a section of their park called the Outback, which is for RV camping. The rate is $38 per night if you tell them you are with the tournament. The number to call to make reservations is 863-402-1500 and ask for Heather or Debbie.
There is also a Holiday Inn Express across the street from Tanglewood. We are looking forward to the tournament and look forward to seeing you there.
We hope everyone has a safe and Happy Holiday season!
Cindy and Nancy
.jpg)
Just a quick reminder that the Tanglewood Winter Classic Skills Tournament entry deadline is fast approaching. Forms are due this week.
If you don't have a registration form, there is a link here on the Atlantic South website or you may go to our website www.pickleballspecialties.com and download it from there.
Due to the schedule of the shirt shop, we need your registration ASAP in order to get the shirts ordered.
Tanglewood has a section of their park called the Outback, which is for RV camping. The rate is $38 per night if you tell them you are with the tournament. The number to call to make reservations is 863-402-1500 and ask for Heather or Debbie.
There is also a Holiday Inn Express across the street from Tanglewood. We are looking forward to the tournament and look forward to seeing you there.
We hope everyone has a safe and Happy Holiday season!
Cindy and Nancy
.jpg)
2nd Annual Riverbend Classic Tournament
The 2nd Annual Riverbend Classic took place on December 8 and 9, 2013 at the Riverbend Motorcoach Resort in Labelle, Fl. This year the tournament was a Tier 4 USAPA Sanctioned Skill Level event. Tournament directors were Nancy Meyer and Cindy Eddleman, SW Florida Ambassadors from North Ft. Myers.
Cindy Eddleman reports the following:
The Riverbend Motorcoach Classic increased participation from 84 last year to 126 this year!
The only "glitch" was rain on Saturday afternoon which meant playing more matches on Sunday. Besides the participants, we had many spectators and everyone made new friends and had fun.
The Riverbend volunteers turned out in force and worked very hard to make the tournament a huge success. This year, the tournament was sanctioned, and we had referees at each match. Many thanks to all the folks who volunteered to referee matches and a big thank you to the Tanglewood referees who used this tournament as a warm-up for their sanctioned tournament in January.
In spite of the rain on Saturday, we think that everyone had fun, made friends and definitely played some great Pickleball!!!
Click Here for the photo gallery. Click Here for all the tournament results.
Cindy Eddleman reports the following:
The Riverbend Motorcoach Classic increased participation from 84 last year to 126 this year!
The only "glitch" was rain on Saturday afternoon which meant playing more matches on Sunday. Besides the participants, we had many spectators and everyone made new friends and had fun.
The Riverbend volunteers turned out in force and worked very hard to make the tournament a huge success. This year, the tournament was sanctioned, and we had referees at each match. Many thanks to all the folks who volunteered to referee matches and a big thank you to the Tanglewood referees who used this tournament as a warm-up for their sanctioned tournament in January.
In spite of the rain on Saturday, we think that everyone had fun, made friends and definitely played some great Pickleball!!!
Click Here for the photo gallery. Click Here for all the tournament results.
Sunday, December 9, 2012
Pickleball is coming to Temple Terrace starting January 14, 2013!
Posted on December 8, 2012, templeterrace.patch.com
The Temple Terrace Parks and Recreation Department is proud to roll out Pickleball starting January 14. What is Pickleball you ask? Pickleball is a cross between ping pong, tennis and badminton. Players use oversized ping pong paddles and a whiffle ball.
Pickleball is exciting and one of the fastest growing recreational sports in Florida. The games will be played indoors in the gymnasium on a badminton-size court. The games will take place between 9am and 12pm on Monday and Wednesday in an open play fashion. We will have a group on hand to lead an orientation in the art of Pickleball play for all newcomers on January 14.
The games will take place at our Family Recreation Complex at 6610 Whiteway Dr. Temple Terrace, FL 33617. The fee is free to all members. Non-members can pay a $10 guest pass, or pay $25 for the month. Come see why Pickleball is becoming so popular.
For more information, contact Scott Andrews at 813-506-6600, or sandrews@templeterrace.com.
Posted on December 8, 2012, templeterrace.patch.com
The Temple Terrace Parks and Recreation Department is proud to roll out Pickleball starting January 14. What is Pickleball you ask? Pickleball is a cross between ping pong, tennis and badminton. Players use oversized ping pong paddles and a whiffle ball.
Pickleball is exciting and one of the fastest growing recreational sports in Florida. The games will be played indoors in the gymnasium on a badminton-size court. The games will take place between 9am and 12pm on Monday and Wednesday in an open play fashion. We will have a group on hand to lead an orientation in the art of Pickleball play for all newcomers on January 14.
The games will take place at our Family Recreation Complex at 6610 Whiteway Dr. Temple Terrace, FL 33617. The fee is free to all members. Non-members can pay a $10 guest pass, or pay $25 for the month. Come see why Pickleball is becoming so popular.
For more information, contact Scott Andrews at 813-506-6600, or sandrews@templeterrace.com.
Saturday, December 8, 2012
Ribbon Cutting - New Courts in Salem, SC
The following appeared in The Journal, Upstate Today and was sent to us by Ambassador Dick Stone of Keowee Key,SC
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Pickleball Demo at our Local Farmer's Market
Submitted by Bob Dean,
Ambassador, Ponte Vedra, Fl
Bob shares some information and some pictures on the recent pickleball demonstration that a few of the players did at a recent Nocatee Farmers Market.
The following is from the Nocatee Blog in an article titled Fit N Fun Nocatee Farmers Market Recap. Nocatee is a new coastal community in Northeast Florida that blends a variety of neighborhoods with schools, parks, libraries, recreation, offices, shopping, restaurants and so much more. Located in world renowned Ponte Vedra, Florida, Nocatee is just a few minutes away from pristine beaches, golf courses, business parks and major airports in downtown Jacksonville and St. Augustine.
On Saturday, November 17th, residents and guests gathered on the Farmers Market Field to celebrate the Fit N’ Fun themed Nocatee Farmers Market with live-entertainment, a rock climbing wall, group exercise class demos, pickleball play, inflatable slides and 70+ local vendors. Lending to the ‘Fit N’ Fun’ theme, this Farmers Market featured a rock climbing wall and makeshift pickleball court.
Set up in the Farmers Market Field corner, closest to the Greenway Trail System trailhead, this rock climbing wall had three different walls for climbers to choose. A pickleball court where everyone could learn more about “America’s Fastest Growing Sport” and practice their skills was set up by the USA Pickleball Association, USAPA. On the temporary court, in between the Farmers Market Field and Nocatee’s featured amenity - Splash Water Park, everyone enjoyed the ‘tennis like’ game and putting their forehand to good use.
Bob reports on the day as well: We battled 25 mph winds and cold weather introducing this sport to several Nocatee residents. We hope to hold more events in the future. There were several interested players despite the lower attendance caused by the inclement weather. I am attaching some photos of the fun activity.
Ambassador, Ponte Vedra, Fl
Bob shares some information and some pictures on the recent pickleball demonstration that a few of the players did at a recent Nocatee Farmers Market.
The following is from the Nocatee Blog in an article titled Fit N Fun Nocatee Farmers Market Recap. Nocatee is a new coastal community in Northeast Florida that blends a variety of neighborhoods with schools, parks, libraries, recreation, offices, shopping, restaurants and so much more. Located in world renowned Ponte Vedra, Florida, Nocatee is just a few minutes away from pristine beaches, golf courses, business parks and major airports in downtown Jacksonville and St. Augustine.
On Saturday, November 17th, residents and guests gathered on the Farmers Market Field to celebrate the Fit N’ Fun themed Nocatee Farmers Market with live-entertainment, a rock climbing wall, group exercise class demos, pickleball play, inflatable slides and 70+ local vendors. Lending to the ‘Fit N’ Fun’ theme, this Farmers Market featured a rock climbing wall and makeshift pickleball court.
Set up in the Farmers Market Field corner, closest to the Greenway Trail System trailhead, this rock climbing wall had three different walls for climbers to choose. A pickleball court where everyone could learn more about “America’s Fastest Growing Sport” and practice their skills was set up by the USA Pickleball Association, USAPA. On the temporary court, in between the Farmers Market Field and Nocatee’s featured amenity - Splash Water Park, everyone enjoyed the ‘tennis like’ game and putting their forehand to good use.
Bob reports on the day as well: We battled 25 mph winds and cold weather introducing this sport to several Nocatee residents. We hope to hold more events in the future. There were several interested players despite the lower attendance caused by the inclement weather. I am attaching some photos of the fun activity.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
Meet our New Ambassadors from Cornelius, NC
.jpg)
Bob Nibarger and I are the recently appointed PB ambassadors for North Mecklenburg County in NC. About 18 months ago we moved with our wives to Bailey’s Glen. This new 55+ active adult community is in Cornelius, NC, about 20 minutes north of Charlotte. I was introduced to pickleball in Michigan after playing handball for about 40 years. Bob was the coach of a championship girls softball team and start playing pickleball shortly after moving to NC. We have worked together to foster the growth of pickleball both in our community and in the local area. We conduct group clinics and offer individual instruction. Bob worked with city officials to start a program offering pickleball for seniors in a school gym. Our first session had over 24 participants anxious to learn about our great sport! The growth we have seen in this area has been rewarding, and we are only at the beginning stage. We plan to offer many of the same promotional activities as we work to introduce pickleball into different venues and add additional courts.
Monday, December 3, 2012
YOU ARE INVITED
PICKLEBALL TOURNAMENT
Doubles
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Mixed Doubles
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Solivita, Poinciana, Florida
For Men and Women 50 Years and Over
Event Manager – Mike Holtzclaw
Call or email NOW to request an entry booklet that
will be mailed the first week of January 2013.
863-533-0055
polkseniorgames@verizon.net
Registration deadline is February 6, 2013
Friday, November 30, 2012
Atlantic South Regional Tournament Update
Hi Pickleball Players!
Just a reminder, registrations for the first Atlantic South Regional Pickleball Tournament closes Saturday,January 12th, 2013 for mail in entries and Monday, January 14th, 2013 for on-line registration.
For your convenience, we have included links below for the Tournament Flyer which will have all the detailed information available for now and the Registration Forms.
We are happy to announce that the Quality Inn and Suites Golf Resort will be the Host Hotel for this years Regional Tournament. The hotel has Standard Rooms / Two Queen Beds, Junior Suites King Bed/ with Sleeper Sofa/Kitchen and Deluxe Suites/Full Bedroom with Kitchen and Living Room/ Sleeper Sofa/ Two Bathrooms. They have a full Continental Breakfast/ Restaurant, Heated Swimming Pool, Outside Tiki Bar, Golf Course that you can play at a discounted price, and Two Tennis Courts which will be lined off for Pickleball Warm-up and Play.
The Dinner/Social will also be held there which will begin at 6:30pm. Come early, Happy Hour runs from 3:00-7:00pm. We will have a full cash bar set up with Bartender during the dinner. All are encouraged to come and enjoy, make sure to mark your form, only $6 per person if you are not a USAPA member.
Any hotel you choose from those listed on the link or listed on the info page have agreed to extend days before and after the tournament at the discounted prices. So come and spend a week in Naples, Florida during prime time at discounted prices. Enjoy the beach, activities, shopping, restaurants, and places to go and see! The average winter temperature in February is high 70's with lows in the 60's.
Hope you come and join us!
The Atlantic South Regional Tournament Team
CLICK HERE for FLYER
CLICK HERE for Registration Form
Just a reminder, registrations for the first Atlantic South Regional Pickleball Tournament closes Saturday,January 12th, 2013 for mail in entries and Monday, January 14th, 2013 for on-line registration.
For your convenience, we have included links below for the Tournament Flyer which will have all the detailed information available for now and the Registration Forms.
The Dinner/Social will also be held there which will begin at 6:30pm. Come early, Happy Hour runs from 3:00-7:00pm. We will have a full cash bar set up with Bartender during the dinner. All are encouraged to come and enjoy, make sure to mark your form, only $6 per person if you are not a USAPA member.
Any hotel you choose from those listed on the link or listed on the info page have agreed to extend days before and after the tournament at the discounted prices. So come and spend a week in Naples, Florida during prime time at discounted prices. Enjoy the beach, activities, shopping, restaurants, and places to go and see! The average winter temperature in February is high 70's with lows in the 60's.
Hope you come and join us!
The Atlantic South Regional Tournament Team
CLICK HERE for FLYER
CLICK HERE for Registration Form
Pickleball in PEAR Park - Leesburg
Information and Photos submitted by:
Ken and Lynn Corbett - Leesburg, FL
There is now a public park in Leesburg, FL, that offers pickleball.
PEAR Park is located about 4 miles north on Highway 27 from the Florida Turnpike Highway 27 North exit. The entrance to the park directly across from the highway from the entrance to the Legacy community. The park opened up 4 new pickleball courts in September and they are in the process of building 2 more. The asphalt is ready; they just need to put the fence up, paint and put the nets up. "We are playing at least three times a week." Players from the surrounding communities of Highland Lakes, Royal Highlands, Hawthorne, Water Oaks and Plantation frequently play there. A few players from Highland Lakes and Royal Highlands play regularly on Mondays and Wednesdays.
Last week Ken and Lynn Corbett of Highland Lakes sent out an e-mail for Black Friday play and got 16 players...... and another for the following Saturday and had 14 players.
PEAR park has been added to the places to play page on the USAPA website, along with contact information for Ken and Lynn Corbett.
PEAR Park is located about 4 miles north on Highway 27 from the Florida Turnpike Highway 27 North exit. The entrance to the park directly across from the highway from the entrance to the Legacy community. The park opened up 4 new pickleball courts in September and they are in the process of building 2 more. The asphalt is ready; they just need to put the fence up, paint and put the nets up. "We are playing at least three times a week." Players from the surrounding communities of Highland Lakes, Royal Highlands, Hawthorne, Water Oaks and Plantation frequently play there. A few players from Highland Lakes and Royal Highlands play regularly on Mondays and Wednesdays.
PEAR park has been added to the places to play page on the USAPA website, along with contact information for Ken and Lynn Corbett.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
Start Up - Pickleball
On Sunday November 18th, TampaBay area residents were introduced to pickleball for the first time at the Cheval Athletic Club in Lutz, FL. Ambassador Larry Neely, a resident and avid tennis player at Cheval, hopes to add pickleball to the Club's athletic schedule, open to the public and to players of all ages.
Larry himself is new to the game - so wants to extend special thanks to fellow ambassadors, John Hilliard of New Port Richey, Lee Boerckel of Hudson, and veteran player Bob Cicetti of the Long Center in Clearwater for being there to help him out.
Twenty two people learned about pickleball, first with an orientation that talked about the game and introduced them to the paddles and balls. Then they had an opportunity to take to the courts for instruction and play. The club is working on scheduling times for open play - so we should see this listed on our places to play page pretty soon. Larry also has a large supply of paddles and balls available for sale to interested players.
Next is to take his portable nets on the road to surrounding communities in New Tampa, (Tampa Palms), Heritage Springs (Trinity) and to Tampa's MP Tennis and try to introduce a TampaBay Pickleball league.
Larry himself is new to the game - so wants to extend special thanks to fellow ambassadors, John Hilliard of New Port Richey, Lee Boerckel of Hudson, and veteran player Bob Cicetti of the Long Center in Clearwater for being there to help him out.
Twenty two people learned about pickleball, first with an orientation that talked about the game and introduced them to the paddles and balls. Then they had an opportunity to take to the courts for instruction and play. The club is working on scheduling times for open play - so we should see this listed on our places to play page pretty soon. Larry also has a large supply of paddles and balls available for sale to interested players.
Next is to take his portable nets on the road to surrounding communities in New Tampa, (Tampa Palms), Heritage Springs (Trinity) and to Tampa's MP Tennis and try to introduce a TampaBay Pickleball league.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Great Pumpkin Pickleball (Benefit) Tournament
Submitted by Ann Earley
The Great Pumpkin Tournament was held on November 17 and 18 on the courts of the North Georgia Pickleball Club in Canton, GA.
The Saturday Opening Ceremony was provided by the Teasley Middle School Jr. ROTC Air Raiders. A short presentation by The Rifle team was followed by the presentation of the flag and a reenactment of the Imo Jimo Memorial. A $250 check was presented to their Commander Santiago Santana. Pastor Ken Terrell sang the National Anthem and play began!
Anne Early (along with Atlantic South mascots, Bocce and Clyde) present the awards to the winners in front of their new North Georgia Pickleball Club Banner donated by Floyd Moody Graphics.
Floyd Moody topped the Charlie Brown division and Pat Denman came out first in the Lucy division.
Over $1500. was raised for the Cherokee county Humane Society.
Pictured is Ottis Moore with his rescue long-haired Dashund puppy accepting the checks from Tom Earley. Ottis has been past President and Board member plus he orchestrates the weekly adoption at PetSmart.
Despite a cool beginning, the day was clear and spectacular!
Play continued on Sunday. Another cool day on the courts, but another very good pickleball day.
Top place in the Snoopy Division was Don Lucas, and joining him in first place from the Linus Division was John Pyle.
Also on the court last week was artist Katie Brown who honored Ann Early. Pictured above she is presented with a painting of a heritage turkey (just like the ones she and Tom raised a couple of years ago) as a "thank you" for their work on the tournament.
Well deserved Tom and Ann!
All the pictures from the tournament have been added to the GA Photo Gallery.
CLICK HERE to view
The Saturday Opening Ceremony was provided by the Teasley Middle School Jr. ROTC Air Raiders. A short presentation by The Rifle team was followed by the presentation of the flag and a reenactment of the Imo Jimo Memorial. A $250 check was presented to their Commander Santiago Santana. Pastor Ken Terrell sang the National Anthem and play began!
Anne Early (along with Atlantic South mascots, Bocce and Clyde) present the awards to the winners in front of their new North Georgia Pickleball Club Banner donated by Floyd Moody Graphics.
Floyd Moody topped the Charlie Brown division and Pat Denman came out first in the Lucy division.
Over $1500. was raised for the Cherokee county Humane Society.
Pictured is Ottis Moore with his rescue long-haired Dashund puppy accepting the checks from Tom Earley. Ottis has been past President and Board member plus he orchestrates the weekly adoption at PetSmart.
Despite a cool beginning, the day was clear and spectacular!
Play continued on Sunday. Another cool day on the courts, but another very good pickleball day.
Top place in the Snoopy Division was Don Lucas, and joining him in first place from the Linus Division was John Pyle.
Also on the court last week was artist Katie Brown who honored Ann Early. Pictured above she is presented with a painting of a heritage turkey (just like the ones she and Tom raised a couple of years ago) as a "thank you" for their work on the tournament.
Well deserved Tom and Ann!
All the pictures from the tournament have been added to the GA Photo Gallery.
CLICK HERE to view
Monday, November 26, 2012
Out with the Old - In with the New
North Georgia Pickleball Club gets new Club Banner!Submitted by Ann Earley
Thanks to Floyd Moody (Moody Graphic Designs) in Ball Ground, we "retired" our 5+ year old club sign in time for our "Great Pumpkin Pickleball Tournament" on November 17th and 18th.
Seen with our new sign (bottom photo) is Tom Earley (left) and Floyd Moody on the ladder. The club logo was designed by Moody Graphic Designs. The old sign (top photo)will be used one last time at the entrance to the tournament. By the sign is (left) Tom Earley and (right) Bill Hess. More than 60 players are expected for the two day tournament. Over $1,200.00 was collected for entry fees and will be presented to the Cherokee County Humane Society.
Wednesday, November 21, 2012
National Senior Games - Cleveland, Ohio
- Registration is now open for the 2013 Cleveland Games. The pickleball competition dates are Sunday, July 28-Thursday, August 1, with an open practice day on Saturday, July 27.
- Early Registration must be completed online or post marked by midnight Thursday, January 31, 2013, eastern time. You will save $25 by registering online.
- Regular registraion must be completed online or post marked by midnight Wednesday, May 1, 2013, eastern time.
- There are still a number of states that have not sent their qualifiers to the NSGA. However, states are being added on almost a daily basis. If your state is not listed (on NSGA website), contact your state organization to confirm your qualifying status.
- Here is a link to the NSGA website: http://www.nsga.com/
Friday, November 16, 2012
Pickleball at Keowee Key
This video is "Hot off the press............it is the pickleball history video sent in to us from ambassador Dick Stone.. It is the history of pickleball growth in his home community, including beginner pickleball, the construction of the new courts, the ribbon cutting and the installation of the USAPA Banner.
ENJOY !
ENJOY !
Monday, November 12, 2012
Pickleball Club Raises Over $15,000 for Hope For The Warriors!
Submitted by Jane Harvey
Ambassador, Indian Land, SC
Sun City Carolina Lakes
Tournament Fundraising chairperson, Donna Maguire, set the bar high this year when she set a goal to raise $10,000 for Hope For the Warriors. Maguire organized a 5k fun run, pickleball marathon, and silent auction, and sold souvenir t-shirts and string backpacks. Each event moved the Club closer to its goal. In addition, sponsors generously gave money and gifts in kind, including delicious snacks for the Veterans' Invitational Tournament.
Months of planning and hard work paid off. When all the money was counted, members of the SCCL Pickleball Club had raised over $15,000. Accepting the check at the tournament banquet, was Duke graduate and former NBA star, Jack Marin of the Baltimore Bullets. Marin, who is a member of the Board of HFW, expressed his appreciation and admitted he had never heard of pickleball before. He promised to give it a try.
When it was suggested the Club participate in the Lancaster, SC Veterans' Day Parade, we realized it would be a great opportunity to promote pickleball as well as support our veterans and foster goodwill in the community. We quickly rounded up an enthusiastic group of marchers and two decorated vehicles. Local ambassador, Jane Harvey, with help from USAPA member, Martha Burgess, created mini pickleball key rings to pass out to the crowd. Attached was a business card with the tournament logo, information about Hope For the Warriors, and instructions for finding out more about pickleball at the USAPA web site. The key rings were very popular, and with many folks asking “What is Pickleball??” and promising to check it out.
(Pictures Club members; pose behind the Hope For the Warriors Banner; Veteran Beauties wave their paddles to the admiring crowds from the back of Martha Burgess' hot red convertible; The tournament banner carried by USAPA members Fred Harvey and Roy Williams.)
Ambassador, Indian Land, SC
Sun City Carolina Lakes
Months of planning and hard work paid off. When all the money was counted, members of the SCCL Pickleball Club had raised over $15,000. Accepting the check at the tournament banquet, was Duke graduate and former NBA star, Jack Marin of the Baltimore Bullets. Marin, who is a member of the Board of HFW, expressed his appreciation and admitted he had never heard of pickleball before. He promised to give it a try.
When it was suggested the Club participate in the Lancaster, SC Veterans' Day Parade, we realized it would be a great opportunity to promote pickleball as well as support our veterans and foster goodwill in the community. We quickly rounded up an enthusiastic group of marchers and two decorated vehicles. Local ambassador, Jane Harvey, with help from USAPA member, Martha Burgess, created mini pickleball key rings to pass out to the crowd. Attached was a business card with the tournament logo, information about Hope For the Warriors, and instructions for finding out more about pickleball at the USAPA web site. The key rings were very popular, and with many folks asking “What is Pickleball??” and promising to check it out.(Pictures Club members; pose behind the Hope For the Warriors Banner; Veteran Beauties wave their paddles to the admiring crowds from the back of Martha Burgess' hot red convertible; The tournament banner carried by USAPA members Fred Harvey and Roy Williams.)
Saturday, November 10, 2012
Blue Ridge Mountains Pickleball.........
Nancy Falkenstein
Ambassador; Franklin, NC
Recently we decided we needed a name for the group.
Several of our players have ventured out to area tournaments and noticed many of the players had shirts identifying their group and location. It was fun to see the different areas represented and so we pressed on.
After receiving many really good suggestions for a name, Blue Ridge Mountains Pickleball was selected. It seemed to capture best our location as many of our players are from outside of Franklin, and we have many summer folks who live elsewhere.
Then a logo was designed and our local Gooder Grafix put it on silk screen and the result is about 1/2 of the group ordered shirts and most, more than one! We can also get ball caps and visors with the logo without a minimum order. The shirts were delivered to the winter group and proudly worn during our Monday play November 5th as the pictures reflect!
Ambassador; Franklin, NC
Recently we decided we needed a name for the group.
Several of our players have ventured out to area tournaments and noticed many of the players had shirts identifying their group and location. It was fun to see the different areas represented and so we pressed on.After receiving many really good suggestions for a name, Blue Ridge Mountains Pickleball was selected. It seemed to capture best our location as many of our players are from outside of Franklin, and we have many summer folks who live elsewhere.
Pickleball is hybrid game of tennis, Ping Pong and badminton
Fayobserver.com, 11/10/2012
In small pockets across the Carolinas, pickleball has developed a devoted following. Next year, it will be introduced as a sport in the North Carolina Senior Games.
And in Hope Mills, the sport billed as the "fastest-growing sport for people over 50" has found a following.
Why? For openers, it's fun ... occasionally confusing with its oddball paddles and a ball that refuses to go quite where you aim ... but fun. It's also a great way for older athletes to maintain, or recapture, their competitive spirit.
Want to join?
Pick-up pickleball games are Tuesday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and Thursday from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Hope Mills Recreation Center, 5776 Rockfish Road. Anyone 50 or older is welcome. Paddles and balls are available for newcomers. A free pickleball clinic will be held Nov. 27 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. For information, call 425-6707.
Fayobserver.com, 11/10/2012
And in Hope Mills, the sport billed as the "fastest-growing sport for people over 50" has found a following.
Why? For openers, it's fun ... occasionally confusing with its oddball paddles and a ball that refuses to go quite where you aim ... but fun. It's also a great way for older athletes to maintain, or recapture, their competitive spirit.
Want to join?
Pick-up pickleball games are Tuesday from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. and Thursday from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Hope Mills Recreation Center, 5776 Rockfish Road. Anyone 50 or older is welcome. Paddles and balls are available for newcomers. A free pickleball clinic will be held Nov. 27 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. For information, call 425-6707.
Friday, November 9, 2012
Del Webb vs Del Webb.........
Submitted by Jodi Pree
Ambassador, Marco Island, FL
( Jodi spends her summers in GA and her winters in FL........this was the final pickleball event before she came south!
As for the wonderful peeps at the Village of Deaton Creek:
Third time proved to be a charm...after 2 rain outs(one in the spring & one in the summer) fall proved to be the perfect time for the Del Webb communities of Village of Deaton Creek & Sun City Peachtree to have a face off. On Tuesday, October 23rd at 10:30 am, the top teams teams of both communities competed at VDC. The weather was glorious with plenty of sunshine and a comfortable 74 degrees.
The VDC teams are:
Alan Geller / Saul Levenson
Jim Kreh / George Tzompanakis
Chuck Pierce / Carole Greer
Herb Silverman / Bob Fox
Ed Kay is first alternate
The Peachtree teams are:
Peter Phelps / Larry Lewellen
Billy Craddock / Craig Peddicord
Brad Wideman / Chuck Miller
Jack Diehl / Elena Corrales
The teams played a full 16 game round robin with each team playing every other team, followed by pizza lunch in the downstairs clubroom at the VDC clubhouse.
It was great that these two Del Webb communities finally got their match in!
Ambassador, Marco Island, FL
( Jodi spends her summers in GA and her winters in FL........this was the final pickleball event before she came south!
As for the wonderful peeps at the Village of Deaton Creek:
Third time proved to be a charm...after 2 rain outs(one in the spring & one in the summer) fall proved to be the perfect time for the Del Webb communities of Village of Deaton Creek & Sun City Peachtree to have a face off. On Tuesday, October 23rd at 10:30 am, the top teams teams of both communities competed at VDC. The weather was glorious with plenty of sunshine and a comfortable 74 degrees.
Alan Geller / Saul Levenson
Jim Kreh / George Tzompanakis
Chuck Pierce / Carole Greer
Herb Silverman / Bob Fox
Ed Kay is first alternate
The Peachtree teams are:
Peter Phelps / Larry Lewellen
Billy Craddock / Craig Peddicord
Brad Wideman / Chuck Miller
Jack Diehl / Elena Corrales
The teams played a full 16 game round robin with each team playing every other team, followed by pizza lunch in the downstairs clubroom at the VDC clubhouse.
It was great that these two Del Webb communities finally got their match in!
Pickleball at Pelican Bay - Daytona Beach
Submitted by
Cathy Stansbury, Daytona Beach Ambassador
Daytona Beach pickleball players met at Pelican Bay on November 2, a beautiful Friday evening, for a fun time of pickleball, appetizers and conversation.
The group was joined by a father who is an avid pickleball player and his 13 year old daughter and her friend. Those young players added another dimension to our game, easily getting each and every ball outside their reach.
Play began at 5:00, breaking for some yummy appetizers and drinks at 6:00 and more play after the lights on the courts were turned on. We played until we dropped. We all agreed that we have an addiction.
Everyone is looking forward to the next pickleball social.
Cathy Stansbury, Daytona Beach Ambassador
Shores Fall Tournament
.jpg)
According to ambassador, Anita Rimler, there were 45 players participating in the tournament, primarily from Daytona, Ormond and Port Orange.
.jpg)
There was a small contingency of players from nearby Melbourne and Jacksonville, FL
She reports lots of fun for all with hot dogs as a treat after the awards.
Ormond Beach Senior Games
Pickleball was played at the Nova Community Center in Ormond Beach, FL and the following comments were sent to us from Lori Koplin, the Coordinator for the Community Center.
The Pickleball Senior Games were a blast. The players had a lot of fun. I counted 20 players in the tournament. The Nova Community Center is open to anyone Monday through Friday from 9:00-12:30pm. We usually have 10-15 players come in to play and at least 2 new players a week. We are just beginning to plan another tournament at the beginning of next year because the Senior Games was so successful. We also want to draw some outside players inside when it is cold. (Pictures of Daytona Beach and Jacksonville medal winners provided by Cathy Stansbury)
Friday, November 2, 2012
Upcoming Beginner Pickleball Clinics/Demos
The City of Aiken Parks, Recreation and Tourism Department is offering a pickleball session on Monday November 5, 2012.
Pickleball, named after one of the co-founder’s cocker spaniel Pickles, is a game played with a perforated plastic ball and wood or composite paddles on a court similar to badminton. The class will teach the rules of the game as well as offer som additional pointers.
Paddles and balls will be provided.
The session will be held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Monday November 5, 2012
The cost will be around $10 plus a daily court visit fee which is $1 per visit for members and $2 for non-members. It will be held at the H. Odell Weeks Center located at 1700 Whiskey Road, Aiken, SC
For more information, call PRT at 642-7631 or Loretta and Mike Beckner at (703) 732-3075.
For more on the game itself, visit www.usapa.org or www.south.usapa.org.
Pickleball, named after one of the co-founder’s cocker spaniel Pickles, is a game played with a perforated plastic ball and wood or composite paddles on a court similar to badminton. The class will teach the rules of the game as well as offer som additional pointers.
Paddles and balls will be provided.
The session will be held from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. on Monday November 5, 2012
The cost will be around $10 plus a daily court visit fee which is $1 per visit for members and $2 for non-members. It will be held at the H. Odell Weeks Center located at 1700 Whiskey Road, Aiken, SC
For more information, call PRT at 642-7631 or Loretta and Mike Beckner at (703) 732-3075.
For more on the game itself, visit www.usapa.org or www.south.usapa.org.
PICKLEBALL
WHAT IS PICKLEBALL YOU ASK?
Pickleball is a combination of
tennis, badminton, and ping pong and it’s one of the fastest growing sports in
America. It may be a silly name, but it’s a serious sport. It’s fast paced and
easy to learn, great exercise and lots of fun. Good for all ages …. Come see what
the excitement is about!
OPEN DAY
Cheval Athletic Club 4142
Cheval Blvd
Lutz FL
33558
Sunday November 18th
2012
2.00pm – 4.30pm
Free instruction: come learn from
current players of the game. We have all the equipment you need. Just bring
yourself.
FOR MORE INFORAMTION CONTACT:
Larry Neely 813 279 5122
Beaufort Jasper Pickleball at Sun City Hilton Head
Submitted by Bob Grueser
Sun City Hilton Head, SC
The Beaufort Jasper Active Adult Challenge (BJAAC) is part of the South Carolina Senior Games, and this year was a USAPA Sanctioned Tier 4 tournament that took place on October 29, 30 and 3, 2012
The BJAAC games had 109 teams participating and attracted participants from Ft. Myers, Fla., Charleston, Savannah, Hilton Head Island and other local communities. Medals were awarded in beginner, intermediate and advanced skill level as well as age groups. As a result 20 different classifications were presented awards.
These senior games are conducted annually on approximately the same dates. We welcome and encourage players from all over to join us in this very competitive and fun filled tournament.
The games are played on courts built exclusively for pickleball, are lighted for night play and provide excellent playing opportunities for the 700 plus members in the Sun City Hilton Head community.
Sun City Hilton Head, SC
The Beaufort Jasper Active Adult Challenge (BJAAC) is part of the South Carolina Senior Games, and this year was a USAPA Sanctioned Tier 4 tournament that took place on October 29, 30 and 3, 2012
The BJAAC games had 109 teams participating and attracted participants from Ft. Myers, Fla., Charleston, Savannah, Hilton Head Island and other local communities. Medals were awarded in beginner, intermediate and advanced skill level as well as age groups. As a result 20 different classifications were presented awards.
These senior games are conducted annually on approximately the same dates. We welcome and encourage players from all over to join us in this very competitive and fun filled tournament.
The games are played on courts built exclusively for pickleball, are lighted for night play and provide excellent playing opportunities for the 700 plus members in the Sun City Hilton Head community.
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Fall Piedmont Plus Senior Games
Submitted by
Laura Patterson
Ambassador, Winston-Salem, NC
It seems just yesterday when we were getting ready for our Spring Piedmont Plus Senior Games. The coordinator for our Piedmont Plus Senior Games thought it would be a good idea to have a mini Fall Senior Games. He brought the idea to the Senior Games Steering Committee and we all agreed that it would be a good idea. We chose the week of October 15th and included the following events: Shuffleboard, Bocce, Corn Hole Toss, Archery, Billards, Table Tennis, Badminton and of course Pickleball!
According to Chuck Vestal, Piedmont Plus Senior Games Coordinator, “The week may have started out a little soggy with the rain on Monday forcing Shuffleboard and Archery back, but we finished strong. We had 80 individual entries for the Games. The best attended event was Pickleball! The Winston-Salem Journal was on site to take photos which were posted on the next day in an article about the popularity of retiring to the Triad. Twenty-eight people came out for a good time with a mixed doubles competition. The Fall Senior Games served it’s purpose in that it brought out both new and familiar faces to fellowship and have fun participating in different games. It also got some energy behind a few of the events such as table tennis, badminton and archery”.
Since this was just for fun and bragging rights, there were no medals presented to the winners. However, we did have a few drawings and some of the participants received tickets to Wake Forest basketball or football games and bowling passes to Creekside Bowling Alley.
Laura Patterson
Ambassador, Winston-Salem, NC
It seems just yesterday when we were getting ready for our Spring Piedmont Plus Senior Games. The coordinator for our Piedmont Plus Senior Games thought it would be a good idea to have a mini Fall Senior Games. He brought the idea to the Senior Games Steering Committee and we all agreed that it would be a good idea. We chose the week of October 15th and included the following events: Shuffleboard, Bocce, Corn Hole Toss, Archery, Billards, Table Tennis, Badminton and of course Pickleball!
According to Chuck Vestal, Piedmont Plus Senior Games Coordinator, “The week may have started out a little soggy with the rain on Monday forcing Shuffleboard and Archery back, but we finished strong. We had 80 individual entries for the Games. The best attended event was Pickleball! The Winston-Salem Journal was on site to take photos which were posted on the next day in an article about the popularity of retiring to the Triad. Twenty-eight people came out for a good time with a mixed doubles competition. The Fall Senior Games served it’s purpose in that it brought out both new and familiar faces to fellowship and have fun participating in different games. It also got some energy behind a few of the events such as table tennis, badminton and archery”.
Since this was just for fun and bragging rights, there were no medals presented to the winners. However, we did have a few drawings and some of the participants received tickets to Wake Forest basketball or football games and bowling passes to Creekside Bowling Alley.
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Pickleball Demo in McCormick, SC
On October 11th, four Aiken pickleball players, Maggie Ward, Dick Keeler, Mike and I, went to McCormick, Sc to the Savannah Lakes Village community to give a pickleball demo.
Pam Royal, who is the Director of Recreation, called to see if we might be interested in doing this. There were 42 people who had signed up and it was an enthusiastic crowd! I gave a short talk on the history of pickleball, how the game is played, some of the rules, etc., and we followed this with questions/answers. Maggie, Dick, Mike and I then played a game to show the residents what pickleball in action looks like! Afterwards, we put paddles in the hands of those who wanted to try hitting balls, and there was good interest.
Eventually, we would like to visit each other's programs for some friendly competition.
Pickleball in Solivita
On October 27th & 28th, at our annual Halloween Tournament, the Solivita Smashers celebrated the life and loss of a member who was very instrumental in the formation of the club and a great friend to all. Carl Clous died of cancer this year and was remembered by his fellow club members and Carl also served as our representative to the USAPA."The 2012 Carl Clous Halloween Tournament" and "Team Smashers Kick-Off Celebration for the American Cancer Society's 2013 Relay for Life." The Smashers also had a raffle for three quilts made from various Pickleball tournament shirts. The proceeds went towards a $750 scholarship for a needy student from our local high school.
A great two days of pickleball and fellowship was had by all.
Monday, October 29, 2012
Frostbite Sunday Pickleball and Chili Cookoff....
Submitted by Tom and Ann Earley......North GA, Pickleball Club
"It was a cold and windy night"...... Really!
That being said, we had 20+ Pickleball players on the courts and several spouses taking to the courts from the sidelines. Next week I think we will have several new players! The Morneau men gave everyone a tough match and Ke Kai Ruckstuhl came from Tennessee with an assortment of new and unique paddles for everyone to purchase.
After 2.5 hours of Pickleball, everyone warmed up in the heated stable with 17 pots of chili for the North Georgia Chili Cook-Off. With the following chili entries:Ruxes M meatless Chili (Ke Kai Ruckstuhl), Big Buck Chili (Donna & Greg Goodall), Chili Weather (Gabriele Miller), Willie's Chili (Bill & Dena Whatley), Chillicious Chili (Floyd Moody), Mom's Recipe Chili (Ken & Janice Riordon), Leggero Chili ( Dottie & Jim Frassetto), Kitchen Kickin Chili (Kathy Brown), Frankly My Dear (Tony & Debbie Franks), Hot Chic Chili (Cheryl & Bruce Kosin), North Meets South Chili (Jamie McDaniel & TC), Savanna St. Chili (Elizabeth Kelly), Chili O Chili (Regina & Don Lucas), Sit in the Creek Chili (Pat Denman), Chili Pavo (Jon Pyle), and Oktoberfest Chili (Sabine & Fabio Yeppes).
The $50.00 grand prize winner was "Big Buck Chili" by Donna
Goodall. Other contributors were Mark Morneau with chips, Judy Vonesh with
soft drinks, water, and beer, and Chuck & Linda Fahn with cornbread. Kathy
Brown exhibited a small art show in the piano studio, everyone enjoyed
tasting and eating, and today despite the cold temperature and gusty wind,
there will be players back on the courts at 10 a.m. for more Pickleball!
Thanks to all who came and participated! Brrrrr - back to the fireplace!
Ann &Tom Earley
"It was a cold and windy night"...... Really!
That being said, we had 20+ Pickleball players on the courts and several spouses taking to the courts from the sidelines. Next week I think we will have several new players! The Morneau men gave everyone a tough match and Ke Kai Ruckstuhl came from Tennessee with an assortment of new and unique paddles for everyone to purchase.
After 2.5 hours of Pickleball, everyone warmed up in the heated stable with 17 pots of chili for the North Georgia Chili Cook-Off. With the following chili entries:Ruxes M meatless Chili (Ke Kai Ruckstuhl), Big Buck Chili (Donna & Greg Goodall), Chili Weather (Gabriele Miller), Willie's Chili (Bill & Dena Whatley), Chillicious Chili (Floyd Moody), Mom's Recipe Chili (Ken & Janice Riordon), Leggero Chili ( Dottie & Jim Frassetto), Kitchen Kickin Chili (Kathy Brown), Frankly My Dear (Tony & Debbie Franks), Hot Chic Chili (Cheryl & Bruce Kosin), North Meets South Chili (Jamie McDaniel & TC), Savanna St. Chili (Elizabeth Kelly), Chili O Chili (Regina & Don Lucas), Sit in the Creek Chili (Pat Denman), Chili Pavo (Jon Pyle), and Oktoberfest Chili (Sabine & Fabio Yeppes).
Ann &Tom Earley
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Interest sparked in Palm Beach County....
Dick Freshley is one of our Palm Beach county ambassadors from Greenacres, and Josh Kalin recently joined him from west Delray Beach. With their wives, the four of them are working to promote the game and generate interest. One recent location where they introduced the game was at a community called Huntington Pointe, an active adult, private community in south Palm Beach County. According to Dick, They (Josh and Harriet) are doing all the work to get Huntington Pointe going. Verna and I mostly just show up to play!
We had quite a crowd at our Saturday morning pickleball game at Huntington Pointe this morning. Eleven people, four who had never played before. The 4 newcomers were just walking by and stopped to see what this strange activity was. We encouraged them to give it a try. Two were veteran tennis players and picked it up in a jiffy. Soon they were holding their own with us "pros."
Huntington Pointe has a large tennis complex with eight counts and one paddle tennis court; almost perfect for pickleball. Width is 20' (just right) length is 46' close enough for beginners). We put down a piece of blue masking tape for the non-volley line and we are good to go. We used the paddle tennis court and two adjacent tennis courts.
I am going to invite our representative from Palm Beach County Parks and Rec, He has promised us some public courts when we get enough interested people. I think we are there now. I'd sure prefer a public facility closer to West Palm. Indoors would be perfect too.
But this is not the only location : According to Josh and Harriett: We are trying to promote the game in individual communities amongst themselves. If this takes hold, perhaps there will be more Clubs interested in playing at various Clubs on a rotating basis or developing a public location in the Delray Beach area for everyone. We are in the process of scheduling a demonstration within our gated community. We'll see how it develops since we only have Har Tru tennis courts. We have set up our portable net on an unused street in a local park and have been introducing some friends to pickleball.
We had quite a crowd at our Saturday morning pickleball game at Huntington Pointe this morning. Eleven people, four who had never played before. The 4 newcomers were just walking by and stopped to see what this strange activity was. We encouraged them to give it a try. Two were veteran tennis players and picked it up in a jiffy. Soon they were holding their own with us "pros."
Huntington Pointe has a large tennis complex with eight counts and one paddle tennis court; almost perfect for pickleball. Width is 20' (just right) length is 46' close enough for beginners). We put down a piece of blue masking tape for the non-volley line and we are good to go. We used the paddle tennis court and two adjacent tennis courts.
I am going to invite our representative from Palm Beach County Parks and Rec, He has promised us some public courts when we get enough interested people. I think we are there now. I'd sure prefer a public facility closer to West Palm. Indoors would be perfect too.
But this is not the only location : According to Josh and Harriett: We are trying to promote the game in individual communities amongst themselves. If this takes hold, perhaps there will be more Clubs interested in playing at various Clubs on a rotating basis or developing a public location in the Delray Beach area for everyone. We are in the process of scheduling a demonstration within our gated community. We'll see how it develops since we only have Har Tru tennis courts. We have set up our portable net on an unused street in a local park and have been introducing some friends to pickleball.
Tuesday, October 23, 2012
2012 Kissimmee-St. Cloud Pickleball Senior Games
Looks like the pickleball players at the 2012 Kissimmee- St. Cloud Senior Games are having a great time!!
The event was held in Solivita, located in Poinciana, FL on October 15 and 16. There were approximately 250 competitors from various parts in Florida, with the oldest being 86 year old Tom Hylas of Solivita.
Participants competed in Men's, Women's and Mixed Doubles, and also Single's play. The weather cooperated over the two days where we had typically sunny Florida days.
Tom Leva, Pickleball Director
CLICK HERE for COMPLETE RESULTS
CLICK HERE for photo gallery.
The event was held in Solivita, located in Poinciana, FL on October 15 and 16. There were approximately 250 competitors from various parts in Florida, with the oldest being 86 year old Tom Hylas of Solivita.
Participants competed in Men's, Women's and Mixed Doubles, and also Single's play. The weather cooperated over the two days where we had typically sunny Florida days.
Tom Leva, Pickleball Director
CLICK HERE for COMPLETE RESULTS
CLICK HERE for photo gallery.
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Beaufort-Jasper Active Adult Challenge begins Friday
Bluffton Today, www.blufftontoday.com
October 17, 2012
Frank Piscani has been competing in BJAAC for four years. Pickleball is Piscani’s choice of competition. He has won gold in his age division every year he has participated in BJAAC and hopes to continue winning.
“We will see some tough competition in the age group again this year,” Piscani said.
Bluffton Today, www.blufftontoday.com
October 17, 2012
“We will see some tough competition in the age group again this year,” Piscani said.
Winston-Salem Journal
www2.journalnow.com
October 16, 2012
Winston-Salem ranks sixth in best places to retire
www2.journalnow.com
October 16, 2012
Winston-Salem ranks sixth in best places to retire
 |
| Tim Kute, a 67-year-old Winston-Salem resident, attempts to return the ball on Tuesday, October 16, 2012 at the Gateway YWCA in Winston-Salem, N.C. Seniors gathered at the YWCA for the pickleball section of the Fall Senior Games. Pickleball is a game that is played on a badminton court with the new lowered to 34 inches at the center. It is played with a perforated plastic baseball and wood or composite paddles. Winston-Salem Recreation and Parks is hosting the Fall Senior Games this week through October 19. Game events also include shuffleboard, cornhole, bocce and badminton, amongst a host of other sports. |
Popularity of Pickleball on rise in Greenville
www.FoxCarolina.com
Oct. 18,2012
.jpg)
Parks and recreation officials said the program is getting so popular that they're in the planning stages on starting a league.
....... "That was another pleasant surprise that we had folks, 20s and up, coming out and playing," said Davis. "It's a great way for senior adults to get active, but if we have younger people playing, we want them to come play too."
...... "It's fast, it's competitive, it's also fun. you also get to play with all these people."
....Players interested in taking up Pickleball can try it free for their first visit.....The group meets every Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until noon at Gower Park in Greenville until Nov. 24.
www.FoxCarolina.com
Oct. 18,2012
.jpg)
....... "That was another pleasant surprise that we had folks, 20s and up, coming out and playing," said Davis. "It's a great way for senior adults to get active, but if we have younger people playing, we want them to come play too."
...... "It's fast, it's competitive, it's also fun. you also get to play with all these people."
....Players interested in taking up Pickleball can try it free for their first visit.....The group meets every Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until noon at Gower Park in Greenville until Nov. 24.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Pickleball Club Raises Money for Veterans
CHARLOTTE, NC: The Sun City Carolina Lakes Pickleball Club is heading to the court for a great cause. They're holding a pickleball tournament on October 26 and 27 that benefits Hope for the Warriors. Fox News Rising's Terrance Bates learns more about pickleball and this tournament from organizers Sue & Rick Lambert. (FOX NEWS CHARLOTTE, NC - OCT. 16, 2012)
Pickleball at the 2012 Tampa Bay Senior Games
Enjoy this great video of the Tampa Bay Senior Games Pickleball Event
October 2012
Sun City Center Pickleball Courts
Naratted by Joe Soletti, Recreation Specialist with the Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation.
October 2012
Sun City Center Pickleball Courts
Naratted by Joe Soletti, Recreation Specialist with the Hillsborough County Parks and Recreation.
Thursday, October 11, 2012
Sun City Carolina Lakes Pickleball Club Hosts 24 Hours of Fun to Benefit Veterans
Submitted by
Jane Harvey, Ambassador
Indian Land, SC
On Friday and Saturday, Oct. 5-6, the Sun City Carolina Lakes (SCCL) Pickleball Club held a 24 Hour Fund Raising Marathon. Two members of the Club, which is hosting a tournament later this month to raise funds for Hope For The Warriors®, came up with the idea to raise some extra cash. The result was a weekend of fun and fellowship and a significant head start on reaching the Club's fund raising goal of $10,000.
The plan was to have participants keep pickleballs in play, non-stop, for 24 hours. People readily agreed to pay to play and signed-up for 2 hour time slots to be sure there were no gaps in marathon play. All of the available time slots were filled, and, incredibly, the 2-4 AM slot filled first! A total of 119 participants joined in.
The marathon began with an opening ceremony and tribute to our member veterans. The courts were decorated with flags from each branch of the military and red, white and blue bunting. Veterans, only, played in the first time slot. During open play, beginners were encouraged join the fun, and more seasoned players volunteered to mentor them.
The marathon planners had realized folks could not play on the official community courts after 10 PM, because the pop, pop, pop of the picklballs (music to OUR ears), might not be appreciated by all our residents. The committed picklers figured the problem was solved when they obtained permission to set up temporary courts in a nearby shopping center.
The night owls found the shopping center lighting ideal for evening play. Folks came to cheer them on, including one fan dressed in her bathrobe. Then, at 12:30 AM, the parking lot lights timed out! The enthusiastic players kept on, however, using bystanders' car headlights. It became a challenge to keep one's eye on the ball with minimal lighting! Fortunately, the lights were eventually turned back on.
A number of participants even caught 40 winks in one of the new cars on display from our sponsors. At 6:00 AM play moved back to the official courts, with veterans again playing in the final time slot to close out the event.
The Marathon was a lot of fun and many new players joined with the more seasoned ones to help with a great cause. The event generated lots of interest with folks from local TV channels 19 and CN2, and a reporter from the Gateway weekly newspaper, coming out to do stories. Entry fees, a raffle for a specialty paddle, and t-shirt and bag sales netted over $2000, launching the Club well on the way to their goal.
Jane Harvey, Ambassador
Indian Land, SC
On Friday and Saturday, Oct. 5-6, the Sun City Carolina Lakes (SCCL) Pickleball Club held a 24 Hour Fund Raising Marathon. Two members of the Club, which is hosting a tournament later this month to raise funds for Hope For The Warriors®, came up with the idea to raise some extra cash. The result was a weekend of fun and fellowship and a significant head start on reaching the Club's fund raising goal of $10,000.
The plan was to have participants keep pickleballs in play, non-stop, for 24 hours. People readily agreed to pay to play and signed-up for 2 hour time slots to be sure there were no gaps in marathon play. All of the available time slots were filled, and, incredibly, the 2-4 AM slot filled first! A total of 119 participants joined in.
The marathon began with an opening ceremony and tribute to our member veterans. The courts were decorated with flags from each branch of the military and red, white and blue bunting. Veterans, only, played in the first time slot. During open play, beginners were encouraged join the fun, and more seasoned players volunteered to mentor them.
The marathon planners had realized folks could not play on the official community courts after 10 PM, because the pop, pop, pop of the picklballs (music to OUR ears), might not be appreciated by all our residents. The committed picklers figured the problem was solved when they obtained permission to set up temporary courts in a nearby shopping center.
The night owls found the shopping center lighting ideal for evening play. Folks came to cheer them on, including one fan dressed in her bathrobe. Then, at 12:30 AM, the parking lot lights timed out! The enthusiastic players kept on, however, using bystanders' car headlights. It became a challenge to keep one's eye on the ball with minimal lighting! Fortunately, the lights were eventually turned back on.
A number of participants even caught 40 winks in one of the new cars on display from our sponsors. At 6:00 AM play moved back to the official courts, with veterans again playing in the final time slot to close out the event.
The Marathon was a lot of fun and many new players joined with the more seasoned ones to help with a great cause. The event generated lots of interest with folks from local TV channels 19 and CN2, and a reporter from the Gateway weekly newspaper, coming out to do stories. Entry fees, a raffle for a specialty paddle, and t-shirt and bag sales netted over $2000, launching the Club well on the way to their goal.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)