A festive atmosphere filled William J. McAdam Park on Saturday as 30 pickleball players, donning holiday pajamas, participated in the first-ever Holiday Pajama Round Robin Pickleball Tournament hosted by the Antelope Valley Pickleball Club.
The tournament was more than just a friendly competition—it was a heartwarming event aimed at benefiting foster youth in the Antelope Valley. Over 50 toys and gift cards were collected, with plans to distribute them at the annual Christmas party hosted by the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS).
Michelle Penez, the assistant regional administrator for the Palmdale office of DCFS, shared her gratitude for the community’s generosity.
“New Christmas gifts are a luxury for the children and youth we serve. We need new, unwrapped toys for children from toddlers to teens, or gift cards for the older youth. This will benefit the 1,100 foster youth we serve from ages 0-21.” – (Michelle Penez)
Donations are still being accepted, to gather all contributions by Dec. 18.
Community Spirit Shines Bright
Penez expressed her appreciation for the support received from the community.
“Thank you to all of our community partners for donating to DCFS Palmdale and helping us bring the holidays to our foster youth and families. This just shows how much our community supports and cares for our most vulnerable children.” – (Michelle Penez)
Tournament director Eileen Rogers reflected on the significance of the event, emphasizing the club’s mission.
“The holiday season is our opportunity to give back to the community and a great way to introduce our new members to our club vision. Supporting our local foster youth is one way to bring our community together, making Christmas brighter and joyful.” – (Eileen Rogers)
Pickleball in the Antelope Valley
Pickleball players have plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sport in the Antelope Valley. Sgt. Steve Owen Memorial Park in Lancaster and William J. McAdam Park in Palmdale feature eight pickleball courts.
The AV Pickleball Club invites new and experienced players to join their gatherings, which are held on Tuesday and Thursday nights in Palmdale, as well as most evenings and Saturday mornings in Lancaster.
News in Brief: Antelope Valley Pickleball Club
The Antelope Valley Pickleball Club’s Holiday Pajama Round Robin Tournament raised over 50 toys and gift cards for foster youth in the area. Benefiting children and teens in the Antelope Valley, the tournament helped support the Department of Children and Family Services’ Christmas party for 1,100 foster youth.
Donations are still being accepted until Dec. 18. The pickleball event provided a festive opportunity for community members to give back and celebrate the season together.
ALSO READ: Green Valley Recreation Pickleball Club Smashes Hunger with Successful Food Drive
Readers Queries
1. What is the most effective serve in pickleball?
Lob Serve. You’ll hear pickleball players call the lob serve the moon ball, the sky serve, or even the high, soft serve. Just like you would throughout a rally, lobbing as a serving technique includes hitting the ball high.
2. What is the hardest part of pickleball?
The most difficult shot in pickleball is the drop shot, including the 3rd shot drop. It requires a soft and precise touch, with just enough spin to keep the ball low to the net, where it’s meant to drop suddenly in an opponent’s kitchen. Done successfully, it can create control over a rally or result in a point.
