Bolkowy and Lim Dominate at Nationals: For Jacob Bolkowy and Benjamin Lim, the pickleball court isn’t just a place to compete—it’s where they’ve grown into two of the sport’s most exciting young players. The 14- and 16-year-old athletes from St. Albert Pickleball Club made their mark at the 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships earlier this month, walking away with four medals and plenty of experience to fuel their future ambitions.
The event, held in Mesa, Arizona, featured some of the top players from across North America, many competing under the sweltering desert sun. Bolkowy and Lim didn’t just hold their own—they delivered standout performances, proving they can play with the best.
Mastering the Mental Game
Bolkowy, who started playing pickleball at age 11 after spotting it at a local rec center, has always been drawn to the sport’s strategic demands. “It’s thoughtful and challenging, and that’s what makes it so fun,” he said. At the Nationals, that strategic approach paid off as he partnered with Las Vegas native Darcy Shore to claim gold in junior mixed doubles, finding chemistry after just one day of practice.
Lim echoed those sentiments, emphasizing how much the tournament tested their mental and physical endurance. Playing in the junior boys doubles (15-16) with Bolkowy, the duo secured silver—a testament to their focus and adaptability against high-level competition.
Building a Professional Path
For Lim, pickleball isn’t just a hobby—it’s a daily pursuit. What began as a curiosity after seeing women play at a local tennis court has evolved into a passion that drives him to compete almost every day. The tournament gave him a chance to face players his age, adding to his resume with a bronze in junior boys singles (15-16). Both players see professional pickleball as the next step, with Bolkowy already eyeing his shot on the Professional Pickleball Association Tour.
News In Brief: Bolkowy and Lim Dominate at Nationals
Bolkowy and Lim didn’t just bring home medals—they gained invaluable experience and a clear sense of where their games need to go next. As these young talents continue to rise, the St. Albert pickleball community can take pride in knowing they’ve helped shape two of the sport’s brightest prospects.