Troy’s Vibrant Pickleball Showdown: Troy University students joined a lively pickleball tournament organized by the University Activities Council at the campus recreation center. The event offered fun, competition, and a break from midterms. Students created their teams and played in a best-of-three format for prizes and bragging rights.
Students Compete and Connect
Held after spring break, the tournament marked a return to campus life with an upbeat atmosphere. “This event is just giving us a break from midterms and just starting back into the year,” said UAC’s Weekend Event Coordinator Javius Pruitt, a sophomore early education major from Birmingham, Alabama.
“With UAC, we have multiple events, and we had taken a break for spring break, and we are just kicking everything back off again.” – (Javius Pruitt)
Players formed teams in advance and took to the court with excitement. “I think playing with people from different parts of the world was my favorite part,” said Bosi Filippo, a computer science major from Italy.
“For example, my teammate is from Sweden, and I think that that was really cool.” – (Bosi Filippo)
New Experiences and Friendly Faces
Some students came into the tournament with no experience but still had fun learning the game.
“My friend invited me, and I did not know the rules, nor how to play, so we practiced for a few hours and then played it like badminton,” said Tsuong Nguyen, a freshman nursing major from Vietnam. “Pickleball is such an amazing game.”
“After we played the game, I’m interested in learning about the game even more and I want to improve my skills.” – (Tsuong Nguyen)
Spectators gathered to cheer on the teams during close matches and exciting rallies.
“These types of events are nice to just meet different people. You are in college, so there are a lot of people to hang out with and have fun with all together.” – (Fillipo)
Winners and Takeaways
At the end of the event, three teams stood out. Team Neymar won first place, followed by Pickle Perros in second and Fyfan in third. The winning teams received prizes including coolers, water bottles, paddles, and pickleballs.
“I feel like the turnout was quite wonderful, especially with us just coming back from spring break. It’s just a great event for right now.” – (Pruitt)
Why It Matters
The pickleball tournament gave students a fun way to relax and reconnect after spring break. It also introduced new players to a growing sport and helped students meet people from different backgrounds. Events like this continue to build community at Troy University.
News in Brief: Troy’s Vibrant Pickleball Showdown
Troy University hosted a pickleball tournament at its rec center, giving students a fun break from midterms. Teams vied in a best-of-three format, with Team Neymar winning first place. Organized by the Activities Council, the event offered prizes, friendly competition, and a chance to meet new people.
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