Metcalf Brothers Win Wyoming State Pickleball Championship: Buffalo locals Micah and Jackson Metcalf made a splash at the Wyoming State Pickleball Championship as the youngest competitors in the event. Despite their age, 13-year-old Micah and 11-year-old Jackson emerged victorious in the men’s doubles division, securing a gold medal and earning a spot at the Lapiplasty United Pickleball Association World Championship, set to take place in November in Dallas.
The brothers’ journey in pickleball began just a year ago when their grandparents, Steve and Penny Laird, introduced them to the sport. While pickleball is often associated with an older demographic, Micah and Jackson were inspired to take the game seriously after watching younger professional players compete on television.
“It’s the fastest-growing sport,” Micah noted, expressing their hope that pickleball will become a college sport by the time they are ready for college.
“We’re hoping it’ll be a college sport by the time we get to college.” – (Micah)
Their sister, Abby, who will be a junior at Buffalo Christian Academy, highlighted pickleball’s versatility as one of the reasons for its growing popularity. “It’s a sport that everyone can play,” she said, emphasizing its adaptability to different skill levels and ages.
Abby also competed at the state championship, pairing with Micah in the mixed doubles division, where they secured third place overall.
Micah explained that pickleball is an accessible sport in terms of cost, requiring just a few paddles and some pickleballs to get started. The Metcalf siblings began honing their skills in their backyard, where they set up a concrete court and net. Practicing every day, they often focus on drills to address their weaknesses. However, the harsh Wyoming winters present a challenge, as cold temperatures can cause pickleballs to crack, forcing them to practice indoors.
“Most can practice year-round but we have to train as much as we can now.” – (Micah)
The siblings have developed a deep understanding of each other’s strengths and weaknesses, which is advantageous during competitions. However, playing alongside family can sometimes lead to friction. Jackson admitted that arguments can make things tougher, while Micah emphasized the importance of maintaining a positive mindset.
“The tournament is all about your mindset. If you’re mad at your partner or you’re feeling down, it will just ruin the game.” – (Micah)
The brothers faced a mental challenge during the championship when they initially lost to their opponents, a team that had previously defeated them earlier in the pickleball tournament. After readjusting their mindset, Micah and Jackson were able to overcome their rivals, winning the final two rounds and securing the championship title.
Micah attributed part of their success to the guidance of local pickleball player Craig Plante, who, alongside his doubles partner Husam Dia, won gold in the men’s doubles division for the 50-and-older category at the state competition.
“He’s just a phenomenal pickleball player, and he’s helped us a lot.” – (Micah)
With their victory, the Metcalf brothers are now setting their sights on the upcoming world championship, where they hope to continue their winning streak and further establish themselves in the sport.
News in Brief: Metcalf Brothers Win Wyoming State Pickleball Championship
Micah and Jackson Metcalf, ages 13 and 11, became the youngest champions at the Wyoming State Pickleball Championship, winning gold in the men’s doubles division. Introduced to the sport by their grandparents, the brothers have quickly advanced, now qualifying for the Lapiplasty United Pickleball Association World Championship in Dallas.
Despite challenges like Wyoming’s harsh winters, they practice diligently and credit their success to a strong partnership and guidance from local player Craig Plante. Their sister Abby also competed, placing third in mixed doubles. The brothers aim to continue their winning streak at the world championship in November.
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