USA Pickleball Tournament: Foley, Alabama, has emerged as a key player in the rapidly expanding sport of pickleball, hosting this weekend’s inaugural USA Pickleball tournament. The city’s ascent as a premier destination shows its growing significance in the sport, which continues to captivate enthusiasts across the country.
A City on the Rise
Foley’s selection as a venue for the select series is a testament to its success in managing pickleball events. Eddie McDonald, a central figure in the pickleball tournament, conveyed his enthusiasm about the event.
“We’re excited to be here. The Foley Event Center and the sports tourism people have been great to work with. We’ve been working with them for several years now. It has grown tremendously. It’s going to continue to grow. The sport is for all ages.” – (McDonald)
National Competition
Foley is one of only five sites across the nation to host the select series, joining Virginia’s Mid-Atlantic region, California’s Wine Country, New Jersey’s North Mid-Atlantic, and Colorado’s Great Plains. For the participants, the event represents more than just competition—it’s an opportunity to engage with the sport on a national stage.
Joan McDonald reflected on the community-building aspect of the tournament, saying,
“It brings a lot of communities together and you get to just play at your level or play other people at a higher level, and just enjoy the sport.”
A Sport for Everyone
Pickleball’s inclusive spirit is a key part of its appeal, a sentiment echoed by Andrea Robertson.
“Everybody loves to help everybody out in this sport and it’s very social. So the competitive level rises, but also the societal community level rises with that as soon as you come into the sport. It’s a lot of fun.” – (Robertson)
As the sport’s popularity grows, organizers are committed to welcoming new players. Robertson emphasized the open-door policy, stating,
“We just accommodate everybody. We accommodate everybody and will teach anybody. It’s just a lot of fun.”
With matches continuing throughout the weekend and the final day of play set for Sunday, Foley’s role as a host city highlights its rising significance in the pickleball community. The city’s engagement with the sport reflects its broader appeal and accessibility, inviting more enthusiasts to experience the joy of pickleball.
News in Brief: USA Pickleball Tournament
Foley, Alabama, is showing its growing sports reputation by hosting the inaugural USA Pickleball tournament this weekend. Chosen for its successful track record in hosting pickleball events, Foley is one of only five sites nationwide for this select series, alongside locations in Virginia, California, New Jersey, and Colorado.
Eddie McDonald praised the Foley Event Center’s role, noting its significant growth. Joan McDonald and Andrea Robertson highlighted the sport’s community and social benefits, emphasizing its inclusivity. Play continues through Sunday, underlining Foley’s emerging prominence in the pickleball scene.
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