Gabe Tardio and Brian Levine Dominate the Split Format: In professional pickleball, few formats are as distinct as split pro doubles, showed prominently at the PPA’s Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships. This event sees elite players under the age of 50, including standout competitors like Gabe Tardio, Brian Levine, Tyler Loong, and Hayden Patriquin, teaming up with seasoned players over 50, creating a dynamic and competitive atmosphere.
Notable Players and Partnerships
Among the participants was Dave Fleming, renowned PPA commentator affectionately dubbed “The Voice of Pickleball.” He paired with Blaine Hovenier, whose admiration for Dave Fleming was noticeable.
“Dave is the best. He’s a mentor of mine and really helped me get into pickleball at the start. So being able to share the court with him has been just a dream so far. He teaches me so much because his pickleball IQ is just through the roof.” – (Blaine Hovenier)
“He’s specifically helped me understand how to develop points at the kitchen and a lot more of the nuance of pickleball that you don’t get coming from tennis.” – (Blaine Hovenier)
Dave Fleming reciprocated the sentiment, highlighting the synergy between him and Blaine Hovenier on the court. “It’s a thrill to play with Blaine. I just let the big dog hunt.” Dave Fleming said after their first-round victory. In the split format, the strategy often involves one player covering more ground, a role that Blaine Hovenier embraced.
Competitive Match and Unforeseen Challenges
However, their journey was abruptly halted by the formidable duo of Derk Pardoe and Tyler Loong, who defeated them in the quarterfinals with scores of 11-8, 11-7.
In the next matches, Tyler Loong and Derk Pardoe found themselves facing off against Gabe Tardio and Brian Levine, who were set to challenge the top-seeded pair, Ben Johns and Tom Dundon, in the finals. Ben Johns, a powerhouse in the sport, showed his competitive spirit, saying,
“Well, I just kind of play like every ball is mine. And if I can get to it, I’m going to take it.” – (Ben Johns)
However, it was Gabe Tardio and Brian Levine who ultimately claimed the gold, winning in a tightly contested match with scores of 10-12, 11-4, 11-4.
Playing the Unique Split Format
Reflecting on their victory, Brian Levine noted the adjustment required to thrive in the split format. “It was honestly just an adjustment to the style of split.” he stated, acknowledging the unconventional nature of the competition.
“Split pro is definitely something that’s unconventional because the younger person can cover a lot of court. And I’m unfamiliar with playing the right side. Gabe doesn’t look like a strong guy but he can carry you on his back pretty easily.” – (Brian Levine)
The split format demands a unique strategic approach, and Brian Levine articulated this distinction.
“You’re playing around the strategy of the top player. You know, if they’re poaching too much, you have to cut them back. The strategy is really interesting because it’s not even like mixed — it’s like super mixed doubles. I can set myself up for powerful shots or an ernie because I don’t have to cover as much court. It’s a super unique format and it’s a lot of fun to play with the pros.” – (Brian Levine)
For Brian Levine, this win also carried personal significance. “Especially fun to beat Ben Johns because he actually beat me earlier this year in singles playing lefty, so now I’ve got a win on him.” he said with a laugh, highlighting the competitive rivalries that define the sport.
Gabe Tardio also shared his perspective on their partnership and success. “I’ve known Brian Levine for a long time, and we’ve played together before this tournament. Split is a fun format, and I get to take up a little more court, and I’m happy to win the gold with Brian Levine.” he concluded, emphasizing the friendship that makes pickleball not just a sport but a community.
News in Brief: Gabe Tardio and Brian Levine Dominate the Split Format
Gabe Tardio and Brian Levine clinched the gold medal in men’s pro split doubles at the Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships, overcoming top competitors including Ben Johns and Tom Dundon. The unique split format pairs younger players with seasoned athletes, creating distinct strategies on the court.
Despite notable partnerships, such as Dave Fleming and Blaine Hovenier, Gabe Tardio and Brian Levine emerged victorious with a final match score of 10-12, 11-4, 11-4. The victory shows skill and strategy, highlighting the competitive spirit of the sport.
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