Melissa McCurley Takes Key Role at APP: In a major move to strengthen its leadership team, the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) has appointed Melissa McCurley as the Executive Vice President of Competition Initiatives. McCurley, a trailblazer in the sport, will leverage her vast experience to elevate pickleball’s competitive landscape.
A Longtime Contributor to Pickleball’s Growth
APP Founder Ken Herrmann praised McCurley for her significant contributions to pickleball over the past decade.
“Melissa is one of the forefront leaders in the pickleball industry, significantly shaping the sport’s growth and resources over the last decade.” – (Herrmann)
He also highlighted her early support in establishing the APP in 2019. McCurley’s extensive experience in tournament management and the growth of pickleball has made her one of the most influential figures in the sport. In her new role, she will help shape the future of pickleball competitions across the country.
From Texas to the National Stage
McCurley’s journey into pickleball began with a family tradition. In 2007, her mother introduced the sport at a holiday gathering in Texas.
“So my mom always hosted us for Christmas, and she brought a pickleball set.” – (McCurley)
The family set up the game in the driveway, sparking a love for the sport. Her competitive journey began in 2011 when she and her mother won a silver medal in a local tournament. This experience led McCurley to get involved with pickleballtournaments.com, eventually buying the software with her brother in 2012.
A Game-Changing Decision
The decision to purchase the software was a turning point in McCurley’s career.
“We had the opportunity to help launch the first US Open tournament in Naples, Florida.” – (McCurley)
The tournament set a new record with 805 registrations, making it the largest event of its kind at the time. McCurley continued to grow her role in tournament management, eventually working with the APP and other pickleball organizations.
Reflecting on a Career Built on Passion
Melissa McCurley’s passion for pickleball has driven her to make a lasting impact on the sport.
“To have the opportunity to have the impact on other people, to have that same courage, to leave what they might have been doing because they now have this passion for pickleball, is something that I can never put a measure on.” – (McCurley)
Her work has inspired others in the sport, showing them how to turn their love for pickleball into a career.
A Legacy of Impact
Her influence goes beyond tournaments; it’s about inspiring people.
“When you say the name Melissa McCurley, my face just starts to smile. She has had a huge impact on me and also the APP tour.” – (pickleball player)
Melissa McCurley’s legacy is marked by her ability to connect with others and inspire them to take bold steps in their pickleball careers. “None of us get where we are without a tremendous support system, and we never get here alone,” McCurley reflected, acknowledging the role of those who have supported her along the way.
A Bright Future for Pickleball
As Melissa McCurley joins the APP leadership team, her passion and dedication to the sport will continue to shape pickleball’s growth.
“The appreciation that you have for the people in the sport and the people is what makes this sport.” – (McCurley)
Her leadership will undoubtedly play a key role in the future success of the sport.
News in Brief: Melissa McCurley Takes Key Role at APP
Melissa McCurley has been appointed as Executive Vice President of Competition Initiatives for the APP. With over a decade of experience in tournament management and the growth of pickleball, McCurley will help shape the future of competitions in the sport. She has had a lasting impact on the pickleball community and is excited to bring her expertise to the APP.
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