Yucaipa Pickleball has established itself as a vibrant hub for the sport, successfully hosting the PickleBOO tournament for the past three years at Crafton Hills College.
Patty Ingram, the president of Yucaipa Pickleball, expressed her enthusiasm about the event’s success, stating, “We were able to temporarily convert six tennis courts into 16 Pickleball courts thanks to hours of volunteer work on Friday afternoon.”
A Spooktacular Event
The Halloween tournament was a colorful affair, featuring players who donned costumes to add a festive touch. “We had 244 registered players with over 300 event entries,” Ingram noted, highlighting the impressive turnout. The tournament spanned both Saturday and Sunday, showcasing divisions for senior players over 60, youth competitors under 18—which saw 16 entries—and a mix of other age divisions. Notably, several young participants competed in all-ages divisions and achieved commendable placements. The event included men’s doubles (two men), women’s doubles (two women), and mixed doubles (one man, one woman), ensuring a diverse range of competition.
The reach of the tournament was significant, drawing participants from as far away as Klamath Falls, Oregon. “They have attended every year as they love our event!” Ingram shared, underscoring the tournament’s growing popularity.
Community Impact and Engagement
Yucaipa Pickleball regularly plays at the Seventh Street courts and the Yucaipa Community Center (YCC), with approximately 300 players utilizing these facilities each week. The organization has made a notable impact through its community outreach, particularly with its “Pickleball in Schools” program, which taught 3,000 children in Yucaipa how to play last year. “We donated over $3,000 worth of equipment to Yucaipa schools,” Ingram remarked. “This sport is growing exponentially as it is fast to learn, great for all ages, and fun to play.”
One of the standout success stories from Yucaipa Pickleball involves Hayden Patriquin, a young player who attended a Community Pickleball day about five years ago with his grandfather and brother. Patriquin, who graduated from Yucaipa High School last year, is now a professional pickleball player ranked No. 6 in the United States and globally. He proudly represents the St. Louis Shocks Major League Pickleball team.
Adjustments Amid City Developments
Due to the temporary closure of the Seventh Street courts until December for the installation and replacement of lights, Yucaipa Pickleball has adapted its schedule. Play has moved to Crafton Hills College on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings, with continued availability at the Yucaipa Community Center every day. For newcomers, there is beginner assistance available at the YCC from 9 to 11 a.m. on Monday and Wednesday mornings, along with paddles available for borrowing.
News in Brief: Yucaipa Pickleball
Yucaipa Pickleball successfully hosted its annual PickleBOO tournament at Crafton Hills College, drawing 244 players and over 300 event entries. Participants of all ages, including seniors and youth, competed in various doubles divisions. Yucaipa Pickleball continues to impact the community through its programs, teaching 3,000 kids the game last year and donating equipment to local schools. With the Seventh Street courts closed for renovations, play has shifted to Crafton Hills College and the Yucaipa Community Center.
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