Thunder Bay Athletes Canadian Pickleball Championships: Two Thunder Bay athletes, Jason Horychuk and Florina Nisioiu, have been chosen to represent Team Ontario at the 2025 Canadian National Pickleball Championships in Winnipeg, Manitoba, from August 19 to 24. Horychuk will compete in the Open Division, while Nisioiu will compete in the Masters Division.
Local Talent on the National Stage
Horychuk is a certified PPR coaching professional who has promoted pickleball for more than seven years. He has taught hundreds of players in Thunder Bay, towns across northwestern Ontario, Winnipeg, and Grand Marais, Minnesota. Both Horychuk and Nisioiu have earned titles at local and out-of-town competitions.
Their selection reflects their skill, dedication, and sportsmanship, as Team Ontario athletes must prove themselves through consistent training and strong performances.
Championship Format and Other Local Competitors
The national championships will feature top players from every province. Each province will have two teams: one in the Open Division and one in the Masters Division. Players will compete in singles, women’s doubles, men’s doubles, and mixed doubles events.
Joining Horychuk and Nisioiu are 15 other Thunder Bay competitors. Among them are junior players Kya Parker and Aleksandr Horychuk, and senior player Tom Steele.
Next Stop: Provincial Championships
After the nationals, many of these players, including Horychuk and Nisioiu, will compete in the Ontario Provincial Championships in Downsview from August 28 to 31.
Pickleball’s Rapid Growth
Pickleball is now the fastest-growing sport in North America, blending elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It is known for being easy to learn, low cost, and suitable for all ages. More courts, clubs, and tournaments are appearing across communities, boosting both recreational and competitive play.
Community Support and Inspiration
Thunder Bay’s pickleball community will be cheering for Horychuk and Nisioiu as they aim for national success. Their achievements are expected to inspire new players and grow interest in the sport locally.
News in Brief: Thunder Bay Athletes Canadian Pickleball Championships
Jason Horychuk and Florina Nisioiu of Thunder Bay will represent Team Ontario at the 2025 Canadian National Pickleball Championships in Winnipeg from August 19–24. They join 15 other locals in the competition, with more events ahead at the Ontario Provincial Championships. The community is rallying behind them.
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