Bulldog Pickleball Club: Fresno State has officially launched Bulldog Pickleball, a new collegiate club founded by freshman Nicholas Wise and Head Women’s Tennis Coach Denise Dy. Established in 2023, the club aims to promote pickleball among students and engage the local community.
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Building Community Through Pickleball
After discussing the idea with Denise Dy, Wise sought to create a club that would bridge tennis and pickleball.
“In today’s world, where tennis and pickleball often conflict, I am thrilled to be a part of a collaboration that grows both sports and enhances the Fresno State experience for students, staff, and the community.” – (Denise Dy)
By 2024, the club expanded its coaching staff to include Irina Tereschenko, a five-time Grand Slam Champion and Major League Pickleball player.
Under her guidance, Bulldog Pickleball organized fundraising events, including a $1,000 Moneyball competition that attracted over 300 players. Nicholas Wise, the club president, emphasized the importance of community involvement, saying,
Their unparalleled commitment and support of the club’s dream to maximize student engagement and travel nationally on the DUPR Collegiate Tour was proven during the “Founders Scholarship” fundraising event.” – (Nicholas Wise)
Success on the Court
With over 150 members, the club held weekly sessions and recently formed a competitive Travel Team. After tryouts, 12 players, including Wise, Will Dau, Lizzie Herren, and Mia Ramos, were selected. Coach Tereschenko trained them for the DUPR Collegiate Las Vegas Super Regional, where they earned a spot in the nationals.
“The culture of collegiate pickleball is extremely competitive and fun. Great rivalries on the court, but making lots of good connections off the court.” – (Will Dau, the club vice president)
This spring, Bulldog Pickleball plans to host even more community events, fostering connections and growth.
“Students are excited to learn about this sport/activity because it is something fun to try out, keeps them active and has recently grown in popularity. Meeting new people, making connections helps grow this sport and community. Spread the word to friends, family, and colleagues!” – (Mia Ramos)
The establishment of Bulldog Pickleball represents a significant development for Fresno State, providing students with new opportunities to engage in a rapidly growing sport. The club’s success could inspire other colleges to create similar programs, enhancing community connections and promoting healthy lifestyles among students.
“The future of Bulldog Pickleball is bright. The goal is to attract and retain members by hosting social events and tournaments, lobbying for new lines/courts, and continuing to provide leadership and mentorship opportunities for club players in the local community.” – (irina Tereschenko)
News in Brief: Bulldog Pickleball Club
Bulldog Pickleball, founded at Fresno State, aims to engage students and the local community in the sport. With Irina Tereschenko as coach, the pickleball club has rapidly grown to over 150 members and formed a competitive team. Upcoming events promise to further foster connections and promote pickleball.
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