Beat the Heat Pickleball Tournament: On Friday, Aug. 9, Southern Pickleball’s “Beat the Heat” tournament kicked off at Rhythm and Rally, the Macon Mall’s premier venue. Billed as “the largest indoor pickleball facility in the world,” Rhythm and Rally stands out, not just for its size but for its significance in the pickleball world. Cofounder Paul Midkiff, a Macon native, expressed pride in the city’s unique offerings.
“Macon is blessed to have the pickleball facilities it has. There’s no other place in the country that can match what Macon, Georgia has to offer.” – (Midkiff)
From Belk to Pickleball Paradise
Midkiff reminisced about his high school days shopping at the old Belk store, which has now transformed into a 32-court pickleball haven. Discovering pickleball in 2017, Midkiff quickly became excited with the game. By 2021, he had teamed up with Mark Spackman to launch Southern Pickleball, which now hosts tournaments across eight southeastern states. Spackman has affectionately dubbed Rhythm and Rally as “The Wimbledon of Pickleball.”
Economic Boost for Macon
The influx of players from Louisiana, Mississippi, and Alabama has brought a notable boost to the local economy. Spackman highlighted the benefits of hosting such events, stating,
“A lot of players come in and play all weekend long, and I think for the players seeing that they’re in town, hey, make it downtown to all the great places to eat and get food and refreshments in downtown Macon.”
Sponsors and the Growth of Pickleball
Local businesses are also capitalizing on the sport’s rising popularity. Phillips Chiropractic, the event’s premier sponsor, sees a clear alignment with its mission. “It really aligns with our vision of promoting well-being along with chiropractic care and a healthy and active lifestyle,” said Mike Sullivan, the company’s representative. The tournament has drawn a substantial crowd, eager to witness Southern Pickleball in action.
“We’re excited to see the turnout just from the players themselves and we can’t wait for an exciting weekend with competition and people coming out to see Southern Pickleball at its finest.” – (Sullivan)
Pickleball for All
Pickleball’s appeal spans all ages and fitness levels. Even Midkiff, once a tennis player, couldn’t resist its charm.
“I was one of those tennis players that said ‘man I’m not going to play pickleball.’ But the first time I played it, I said, man, I’m doing this again tomorrow. And it’s taken over my life.” – (Midkiff)
Looking Ahead
Southern Pickleball will return to Macon in October for another tournament at Tattnall Square Park. Meanwhile, Rhythm and Rally continues to host various tournaments and workshops, solidifying its place as a central hub for pickleball enthusiasts.
News in Brief: Beat the Heat Pickleball Tournament
Southern Pickleball’s “Beat the Heat” tournament kicked off at Rhythm and Rally in the Macon Mall, the largest indoor pickleball facility in the world. Cofounder Paul Midkiff, a Macon native, expressed pride in the city’s unmatched pickleball offerings. Players from across the southeastern U.S. participated, boosting the local economy.
Event sponsor Phillips Chiropractic highlighted the alignment of pickleball with promoting health and wellness. Southern Pickleball, founded in 2021, continues to grow, hosting tournaments across eight states. The next event in Macon is scheduled for October at Tattnall Square Park.
Also Read: Pickleball Name Debate: A Hidden Obstacle to the Sport’s Growth
