Megan Fudge Shares Her Life Beyond MLP: After the excitement of the MLP event in Orlando, Megan Fudge and her team took a well-deserved break to enjoy the city’s famous attractions. Universal Studios provided the perfect getaway, where Fudge, along with her teammates and their families, spent two full days soaking in the magic of the theme park.
“Watching the kids (and Ryler, who might be the biggest kid of all) light up on all the rides was such a joy.” – (Megan Fudge)
It was a fun-filled distraction after the intensity of the 2024 U.S. pickleball season’s end, a season that, like all tournaments, comes with mixed emotions.
The Post-Tournament Letdown: Navigating Mental Adjustments
By midweek, however, the excitement of Orlando faded and the post-tournament blues began to set in. The feeling was described as a natural mental shift, something Fudge acknowledged as she processed the transition.
“I even found myself researching what happens in the brain during this time.” – (Megan Fudge)
This research revealed a common phenomenon: the intense highs experienced during tournaments—fueled by dopamine and serotonin—give way to a drop once the action stops. The routine slows, and the purpose-driven adrenaline of competition is replaced with a sense of calm, which, in turn, can feel a bit dull.
“The “real world” feels slower, less purposeful, and, honestly, dull by comparison.” – (Megan Fudge)
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Finding Peace in the Quiet and Reaffirming Gratitude
While it’s typical to miss the rush of competition, Fudge sees the downtime as essential for recovery and reflection.
“it’s also good for the body to take a breather.” – (Megan Fudge)
The contrast between the intensity of tournament play and the quieter moments at home reminds her to be thankful for both. The days of stillness and contemplation have their value, offering space to appreciate the bigger picture of her life and career.
As the holiday season approached, Fudge was reminded of her many blessings. She spent Thanksgiving with friends who have been like family for over a decade.
“It was a heartwarming reminder to reflect on what truly matters and all the blessings we have.” – (Megan Fudge)
Her thoughts echoed the wisdom of Melody Beattie.
“Gratitude turns what we have into enough and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos into order, confusion into clarity. It makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” – (Melody Beattie)
Looking Ahead: Preparing for the Next Adventure
Gratitude is at the forefront of Fudge’s mindset as she looks to the future. At the top of her gratitude list are her family, friends, health, and the journey she’s on, in pickleball and in life.
“My gratitude list is endless, but at the top of it are my family, friends, health, and this incredible journey we’re on.” – (Megan Fudge)
Now, with the holiday season behind her, it’s time to refocus. Fudge heads back to Sarasota for a training week as she prepares for the next chapter of her career.
“Hope everyone had a lovely Thanksgiving surrounded by those you care about and took time to reflect on all we can be grateful for.” – (Megan Fudge)
News in Brief: Megan Fudge Shares Her Life Beyond MLP
Megan Fudge shares a heartfelt post-season reflection, highlighting the joy of spending time at Universal Studios and the emotional shift that follows a busy pickleball tournament season.
She discusses the natural mental adjustment post-tournament, the importance of quiet moments for reflection, and her gratitude for family and friends during Thanksgiving. Fudge looks ahead to her next training week in Sarasota, continuing her journey with a sense of thankfulness and renewed focus.
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