Jamestown Area Pickleball Club: Celebrated a milestone over the weekend with its inaugural ‘Meet in the Middle’ pickleball tournament, marking a significant step in the club’s expansion.
Club President Chad Kleinknecht expressed satisfaction with the event, which drew 78 participants spanning seven divisions. From 11-year-old prodigies to seasoned players in their seventies, the tournament showcased a diverse range of talent and enthusiasm for the sport.
Organizing the tournament proved to be a seamless endeavor for Kleinknecht and his team. “It was run rather quickly.”It was organized very, very well,” Kleinknecht remarked. The efficient management ensured that teams smoothly transitioned between matches, maximizing playing time and overall satisfaction.
Not content with just overseeing the tournament, Kleinknecht also competed admirably, securing third place in two divisions. Partnering with a new teammate, he highlighted the importance of communication and synergy on the court. “We actually got a feel for each other really, really well,” Kleinknecht reflected, showing the collaborative spirit that defined the competition.
Preparations for the tournament included overcoming weather challenges, with volunteers working diligently to ready the courts after rain. The club, which resumed play in April after a break, navigated unpredictable spring weather with flexibility, often utilizing indoor facilities when conditions were unfavorable.
In a testament to its growing prominence, the club was recently featured in a Jamestown Tourism video showcasing the Applied Digital Pickleball Courts at the Two Rivers Activity Center. Warren Abrahamson, Marketing Manager for the Jamestown Chamber Area of Commerce, emphasized the video’s role in highlighting local amenities and community spirit. “Our goal is to inform others about Jamestown’s offerings,” Abrahamson stated, noting the video’s role in promoting the city as a vibrant and engaging place to live and visit.