Wilson Ladder Pickleball League Sparks Buzz for New Complex

Wilson Ladder Pickleball League: Excitement is palpable in Wilson as the new pickleball complex at Gillette Athletic Complex takes shape. This anticipation was mirrored in the enthusiastic participation during the second season of the pickleball ladder league, organized by Wilson Parks and Recreation Department. With the complex still under construction, the league has become a focal point for the local pickleball community.

Adapting to Challenges

The league’s tournament night had to adapt to the elements, moving indoors to the Recreation Park Community Center gym. This shift didn’t dampen spirits, as players, ranging from 10 to 70-plus years old, battled it out in a four-week regular season at Rotary Park. Braxton Patterson, the recreation programs and marketing supervisor, has been a driving force behind the rise of competitive pickleball in Wilson. “It was so popular that a lot of the players wanted to do it again this year,” Patterson remarked, reflecting on the league’s growth since its experimental inception last year.

Competition Heats Up

Players in the league rotated among mixed doubles teams, accumulating points in each match, regardless of the outcome. The top three performers ranged widely in age and experience, with overall winner Carlos Tyndall in his late 50s, runner-up Ryan Harris in his 30s, and third-place finisher, 10-year-old Lincoln Reffett. “He’s definitely on the track of, probably could be a pro one day,” Patterson said of Reffett, highlighting the inclusive nature of the sport.

Tyndall and Harris, both former tennis stars at Fike High, waged a fierce battle throughout the season, with Tyndall edging ahead to finish with 146 points. Harris, however, distinguished himself by winning his group in the tournament night finale.

Looking Ahead

The successful conclusion of this summer’s ladder league is a precursor to even bigger things once the new pickleball complex at Gillette opens later this year. “It’s building up excitement for the new complex,” Patterson said, noting that the addition of 26 courts will significantly enhance the city’s ability to host events and cater to players of all skill levels. The current facilities, including three outdoor courts at Rotary Park, are struggling to keep up with the growing demand for court time and events.

“They know we’ll be able to do more programming out there with 26 courts that most towns might not be able to, especially on the ladder league standpoint. I mean, it’s helped. It’s going to help our department open up more opportunities, not just from one skill level, per se, but like, multiple skill levels, to have a chance to play ladder league.” – Patterson

Patterson also pointed out how temporary solutions, like using lines and nets at Mathis Park and lessons at various locations, have helped sustain the community’s enthusiasm while awaiting the new complex’s completion. “We’re kind of able to contain the excitement, but it also helped grow it at the same time, with the new complex coming,” he said.

Pickleball Ladder League Results

News in Brief: Wilson Ladder Pickleball League

Excitement is growing in Wilson as the new pickleball complex at Gillette Athletic Complex nears completion. This enthusiasm was evident during the second season of the pickleball ladder league, organized by Wilson Parks and Recreation Department. Despite inclement weather moving the tournament indoors, players of all ages, from 10 to 70-plus, competed fiercely over four weeks. Carlos Tyndall, Ryan Harris, and young prodigy Lincoln Reffett led the standings, showcasing the sport’s inclusivity. The league’s success is fueling anticipation for the new complex, which will feature 26 courts, expanding the city’s capacity for events and catering to players of all skill levels. The future looks bright for Wilson’s pickleball community.

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