Success Story of Ponoka’s Pickleball Tournament: On October 5, the Ponoka Pickleball Club opened its doors to several players from the Bashaw area, marking the beginning of what they hope will be an annual event. Organized by club members Shirley Turner, Shelley Buss, and Brad Buss, this event was a testament to the growing enthusiasm for pickleball in the region.
Inclusivity and Growth Across Ages
The tournament featured 32 players participating in a round-robin format, allowing each participant to compete in multiple matches. According to Turner, each player involved in eight games, plus play-offs, creating an action-packed day filled with friendly competition.
“We decided to make it an annual event.”
“Every player played eight games each, plus play-offs.”-(Turner)
The outcomes were thrilling, with Brad Buss taking home the gold medal, Maypu Mann securing silver, and Tara Smith finishing with the bronze.
One of the most remarkable aspects of this tournament was its inclusivity. With players ranging from 13 years old to those in their 70s, the event showcased the broad appeal of pickleball.
“The youngest we had at the tournament was 13 years old.”-(Turner)
Turner noted the increasing number of younger players participating in the sport, highlighting the positive trend of youth engagement.
“It shows you the sheer scope of the age bracket that takes part in it.”
“And the youth of today are getting in on it, too. It’s fantastic.”-(Turner)
The growing interest among younger players not only supports the sustainability of the sport but also strengthens community ties as participants of all ages come together on the court.
The Future of Pickleball in Ponoka
As the cooler months approach, the Ponoka Pickleball Club is set to transition indoors. Starting in a few weeks, members will gather at the Ponoka Elementary School on Tuesdays and Thursdays, ensuring the game continues year-round. This commitment to maintaining an active schedule speaks volumes about the club’s dedication to fostering a vibrant pickleball community.
Turner, who moved to Alberta from Ontario, expressed her excitement about discovering pickleball and its benefits.
“I moved from Ontario, and I had never really heard about it. My sister had been playing for many, many years, and she said to come out and play when I was visiting one time.”
“Especially with our winters in Alberta, it’s a good way of staying fit as well.”-(Turner)
The social aspect of the sport has also played a significant role in her enjoyment, as she emphasized the connections formed through play.
“Slowly, you get a bit addicted to it.”
“And at the end of the day, it’s just about having fun.”-(Turner)
National Growth and Recognition
“Pickleball has seen incredible growth amongst all Canadians. In 2023, Pickleball Canada commissioned a national research company to look at pickleball participation levels in Canadians. It was found that more than 1.37 million Canadians are playing pickleball at least once per month, with more than half playing four or more times per month.” The organization also recently celebrated reaching 70,000 members, underscoring the sport’s increasing popularity. In addition, National Pickleball Day, designated for the second Saturday in August each year, serves as a reminder of the sport’s significance and the collective efforts of enthusiasts to promote it. For more information about the Ponoka Pickleball Club, call Shirley Turner at 905-802-0751 or find the Ponoka Pickleball Club on Facebook.
These highlight the positive path of pickleball as it continues to attract players from diverse backgrounds.
News in Brief : Success Story of Ponoka’s Pickleball Tournament
The recent tournament at the Ponoka Pickleball Club not only provided a platform for competition but also strengthened community bonds and showed the growing love for the sport among players of all ages. As pickleball continues to gain momentum across Canada, local clubs like Ponoka play a crucial role in developing this enthusiasm.
Whether you’re a seasoned player or a curious newcomer, there has never been a better time to get involved in pickleball. What are your thoughts on this topic? Share your experiences in the comments below!
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