Drop Squad Wins Pickleball Silver Medal: GVR’s women’s 4.0 pickleball team, known as The Drop Squad, made a remarkable impact at the National Team Pickleball League Hilton Head Championship on September 15, securing second place in the 50+ division. Their journey to this prestigious national tournament was fueled by a stellar performance in the Arizona Pickleball Players League, where they clinched the state championship in April after a dominant 7-1 regular season.
Head coach Carol Hammerle expressed her pride in the team’s accomplishments, highlighting their commitment to each other.
“It was meant to be, and it was a great showing by The Drop Squad. I can’t tell you how proud I am of how well they represented Green Valley and the state of Arizona.” – (Hammerle)
This selflessness and respect for one another were crucial in their journey, allowing them to rise from a third seed to compete on the national stage.
Team Dynamics: The Key to Success
The Drop Squad’s path to success can be attributed to its strong team dynamics, which played a significant role in its achievements. Hammerle emphasized that the players’ selflessness and teamwork were instrumental in their performance.
“That’s what’s so special about this team — the respect for each other, the willingness to do whatever it would take to win. They were selfless. It wasn’t about any one of them. It was always about the team and making a difference.” – (Hammerle)
This emphasis on collaboration fostered a supportive environment and enabled the team to handle the competitive landscape effectively. Their journey from being the third seed at the state level to the same position at nationals demonstrated their ability to adapt and prepare for tougher challenges, reflecting a growth mindset that is essential in competitive sports.
Community Support: Fueling Their Journey
The success of The Drop Squad would not have been possible without the significant support from the GVR Pickleball Club and local sponsors. The club raised over $17,000 to fund the team’s trip to South Carolina, showing the community’s commitment to fostering pickleball. This financial backing allowed the players to focus on their performance rather than logistical concerns, emphasizing the importance of community in sports.
Moreover, this support reflects a broader trend in amateur sports, where community engagement and local sponsorships play a vital role in enabling teams to compete at higher levels. As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, the backing from organizations and local businesses becomes increasingly crucial in sustaining the momentum of teams like The Drop Squad.
Looking Ahead: Changes on the Horizon
As the season progresses, The Drop Squad faces a significant transition. Four key players—Teri Neumann, Karin Striepe, Nancy Williams, and Liz Cronin—will join different teams due to a shift in skill ratings to the 4.5 division, as determined by the Arizona Pickleball Players League. This change raises questions about the continuity of the team and how it will adapt to the loss of experienced players.
Despite this impending shift, Hammerle remains optimistic about the future of women’s 4.0 pickleball in Green Valley. “They will be playing at another 4.5 team. Hopefully one from Green Valley, and I’m hoping we will continue to get a 4.0 team here in Green Valley as well,” she stated, indicating a desire to build on the foundation established by The Drop Squad. With practices set to begin in November, the team has an opportunity to recruit new talent and cultivate a fresh roster, ensuring that the spirit of collaboration and competition remains alive in the community.
News in Brief: Drop Squad Wins Pickleball Silver Medal
The journey of The Drop Squad at the National Team Pickleball League Hilton Head Championship serves as a testament to the power of teamwork, community support, and resilience in the face of change. Their impressive second-place finish highlights not only their skill but also the strong bonds forged among the players and their commitment to one another.
As the team prepares for the upcoming season amid transitions in player rosters, the foundation laid by their recent successes will undoubtedly inspire new athletes to step up and continue the legacy of excellence in Green Valley. With a vibrant community backing them, the future of women’s 4.0 pickleball in Riverside remains bright and full of promise.
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