The US Legend Pickleball League, a new professional league for players aged 50 and over, held tryouts on Saturday at Performance Pickleball RVA in Richmond, Virginia. Around 200 senior athletes came out to compete for spots on one of the league’s 12 teams. The event showed the growing popularity of pickleball among older players who want to compete at a high level.
Top Senior Players Compete for Team Spots
Michael Cao, co-founder of the league, explained that team owners were scouting the “best of the best” senior players from across the nation. Despite their age, many athletes remain eager to compete fiercely.
“Even though they are in their 50s, they don’t want to slow down. They still want to compete,” (Michael Cao).
The league will feature teams traveling to play matches, creating strong athletic and social bonds.
Pickleball Combines Competition with Community
Ron Cortese, another co-founder, said pickleball offers both fun and friendship for older players.
“It gave me a chance at 60 to play competitively again,” (Ron Cortese).
Dani Mackey, owner of the Northern Virginia Supernovas, noted the sport’s social benefits.
“Pickleball is a wonderfully social sport. It’s a lot of fun,” (Dani Mackey),
adding that many friendships form through the game. The league hopes to inspire seniors to stay active and healthy.
“Don’t just think that you’re going to slow down,”. “Get involved, stay active, stay healthy.”(Michael Cao)
News in Brief: US Legend Pickleball League
The US Legend Pickleball League held tryouts in Richmond, Virginia, attracting 200 players over age 50. The league offers competitive play and social connection for senior athletes nationwide. Team owners selected top talent for their 12 teams in this new professional senior pickleball league.
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