Edmonds Pickleball Classic 2024: The 2024 Edmonds Pickleball Classic drew over 200 participants to the Harbor Square Athletic Club from August 16-18. The event, which spanned three days, featured all amateur and professional players competing on the club’s state-of-the-art courts. “We have both amateur and pro levels here this weekend,” said Devin Schmidt, Harbor Square’s head pickleball pro.
“Every top player in Washington is here for this event.” – (Devin)
Experience Over Victory
While the competition for cash prizes was intense, Schmidt emphasized that the primary focus of the event was the experience.
“The goal for this weekend is really the experience for the players. Have a really good time, make new friends, and get players together to share their mutual interest in the sport.” – (Devin)
The Rise of Pickleball
For those new to the sport, pickleball combines elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong. Played with either singles or doubles, it originated on Bainbridge Island in 1965 when U.S. Congressman Joel Pritchard and friends improvised with ping pong paddles and a wiffle ball.
The sport quickly evolved, with the first tournament held within 11 years and the United States Amateur Pickleball Association forming in 1984. Harbor Square has adapted to the sport’s growing popularity by converting a tennis court into four pickleball courts and building three additional indoor courts.
A Sport for Everyone
Pickleball’s rapid growth in the U.S. led to its designation as the official sport of Washington State in 2024. Schmidt praised the sport’s inclusivity, noting,
“I love the sport because it’s so inclusive. I’ve taught people from 8 to 89 years old. It’s easier on the body than other racquet sports, you don’t need to spend lots of money on equipment to get into it, and the learning curve is much shorter. But mostly it’s just plain fun. It’s the most addicting sport I’ve ever been a part of.”
Sponsors and Support
The Edmonds Pickleball Classic was supported by several sponsors, including Demetris Woodstone Taverna, Devin Schmidt Pickleball, the Gillin Law Group, Pro S1, Jigsaw Health, LMNT, and Speedup Pickleball. Their backing helped make the event a significant success.
News in Brief: Edmonds Pickleball Classic 2024
The 2024 Edmonds Pickleball Classic, held at Harbor Square Athletic Club from August 16-18, attracted over 200 players. Devin Schmidt, head pickleball pro at Harbor Square, highlighted the event’s emphasis on player experience rather than just competition.
Pickleball, which blends elements of tennis, badminton, and ping pong, continues to grow in popularity and was named Washington State’s official sport in 2024. Harbor Square supports this growth with newly adapted facilities, including indoor courts. The event was sponsored by Demetris Woodstone Taverna, Devin Schmidt Pickleball, and other notable organizations.
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