UCF Marks Pickleball Court Anniversary: The University of Central Florida (UCF) celebrated the first anniversary of its pickleball courts by hosting a tournament on Thursday afternoon. Organized by UCF’s Student Government (SG) and the Recreation and Wellness Center (RWC), the event drew 14 teams eager to compete. Players battled for the championship title while music from the Knights of the Turntables, a student-run DJ club, set the atmosphere.
Annual Tournament Gains Popularity
The tournament began at 3 p.m. after players checked in at 2:45 p.m. Competitors played in a pool format, with each duo competing in three games. Matches followed traditional pickleball rules, with teams playing to seven points and needing to win by one. Points were only awarded on the serving team’s turn. After the pool games, organizers formed a single-elimination championship bracket featuring the top eight duos.
SG athletics coordinator Wyatt Wetzler, a sophomore data science major, expressed excitement over the turnout and confirmed plans to make the event a yearly tradition.
“I think the turnout has been great,”. “Everyone that is here seems to be having a great time, so that’s all you can really ask for.”(Wyatt Wetzler)
Competitive Spirit on Display
The competition featured players of various skill levels, from seasoned athletes to first-time participants. Freshman finance major Austin Edwards entered the tournament with optimism despite having not played in months.
“I am excited,”. “I am feeling pretty confident. I’ve got to go to work after, but I think it’ll be a good time.”(Austin Edwards)
Edwards and his partner, who rented paddles from the Rec Center, were determined to compete despite their lack of practice.
“This is my first time playing in three months, probably,”. “We are actually both renting our paddles from the Rec center.”(Austin Edwards)
Community Support and Growth
The event also drew support from Orlando’s professional pickleball team, the Orlando Squeeze. Event operations and engagement coordinator Olivia Friedley attended to represent the team and promote the sport’s growth in Florida.
“Every time they have a little tournament, we come out and support,”. “We just want to grow the sport in Orlando. Obviously, club teams and colleges are popping off, like UF, FSU, but this is our local team, so we want to support as much as we can.”(Olivia Friedley)
Friedley emphasized the team’s strong relationship with SG and their commitment to future events.
A Growing Interest in Pickleball
While some attendees were experienced players, others were new to the sport. Business administration graduate student Justin Tadros attended as a spectator and was intrigued by the game despite his lack of familiarity with the rules.
“I am very, very well versed in pickles. I love food,”. “Pickleball, however, I didn’t know this was a thing until about two hours ago.”(student Justin Tadros)
Watching his friends warm up, Tadros expressed interest in playing in the future.
“I can’t wrap my head around the rules,”. “Trying to get used to the rules is confusing, but to play is fun, to get you moving is a great time.”(student Justin Tadros)
A Tradition in the Making
In addition to thrilling matches, attendees enjoyed free Smoothie King refreshments. Prizes were awarded to the top three teams, courtesy of the Orlando Squeeze. With strong participation and enthusiasm, SG has committed to continuing the tournament as an annual event.
“We plan to make this a tradition,” Wetzler said.
News in Brief: UCF Marks Pickleball Court Anniversary
UCF celebrated the first anniversary of its pickleball courts with a tournament hosted by Student Government and the Recreation and Wellness Center. Fourteen teams competed, and the Orlando Squeeze supported the event. Players enjoyed music, prizes, and Smoothie King, with organizers confirming plans to make the tournament an annual tradition.
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