Troy Gym! Newly Painted Pickleball Lines! - GO! Troy Walk-in Pickleball Fall 2009
- For quick/easy access Troy's Walk-in Pickleball schedule is also posted on the sidebar feature titled "PLAY MI PICKLEBALL"!
9/30/2009
Troy Gym! Newly Painted Pickleball Lines!
Troy Gym! Newly Painted Pickleball Lines! 
Michigan Pickleball By Dick Manasseri
USAPA Michigan Ambassadors,
Congratulations to all of your for the amazing results that you continue to produce. The number of Places to Play has grown dramatically this year. You have partnered with Rec Center professionals and Senior coordinators to bring the game to hundreds of new players.
Michigan has skyrocketed to the #3 spot in terms of USAPA Membership just behind AZ and FL and, in the process, pushed the Great Lakes Region into the #1 spot ahead of the Atlantic South and Southwest Regions.
Due to growing demand for new programs and extensions to existing programs, we are continuing to add new Ambassadors including
Jim Perrine in Canton
Ilene and Dennis MacDonald in Lexington
Tom Valentine has been appointed to the position of Ambassador-at-Large for Michigan. As Tom travels around the state, he will be looking for opportunities to start new programs and he will be coordinating his efforts with you. We would like to encourage those of you from the same part of the state to band together to plan and support a series of events, e.g. USAPA Showcase Tournaments or Ladder Leagues. In his travels, Tom may be able to help you coordinate your efforts with nearby Ambassadors to form these kinds of teams.
Tom also serves the Pickleball community by representing the four major manufacturers of Pickleball paddles via his company, Pickleball Goodies. Players get to try before they buy, without going online to place an order. For many players, this friendly convenience has been a major step to their continued enjoyment of the game.
We do have a fine team here in Michigan. Your leadership is enabling hundreds of players to smile as they happily become addicted to the game that improves their health and their overall well being.
Thanks,
-Dick
9/29/2009
OPC Gym Schedule October 2009
OPC Pickleball! FUN! Friends! Fitness!
OPC October 2009 Gym Schedule
OPC is home to a public, membership required, 50+ Health & Wellness Department. OPC hosts over 20 hours of Walk-in Pickleball each week, including Free Beginner Lessons, Mixed Skill Level Walk-in Games, and Skill Based Walk-in Games for Novice, Intermediate and Advanced Players.
OPC Membership is required.
- FREE Beginner Lessons SAT 8:00am-9:00am
- FREE Beginner Lessons WED 9:30am-10:30am
- FREE Beginner/Pickleball Mentor Games WED 10:30am-11:30am
- Walk-in Pickleball Games $2. drop-in fee OR $30. for an OPC Health & Wellness Department Monthly Card that includes use of the pools, weight/cardio rooms, and other walk-in gym sports
Contact: Janet Razz at MIPickleball@gmail.com
9/28/2009
Oxford Drop-in PICKLEBALL Games
Oxford Drop-in PICKLEBALL Games
Age 45+ Adults
Monday Night at 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Lakeville Elementary School
$5. per person
Age 45+ Adults
Monday Night at 6:00pm - 8:00pm
Lakeville Elementary School
$5. per person
Questions?!? Contact:
- Becky Paquin, 248-628-1720
- Oxford Township Parks and Recreation
9/27/2009
Twinges, pangs? Diagnosis: Boomeritis by Lini Kadaba
I'm one of those picklers that thinks "too much PICKLEBALL" is an oxymoron. Sunday's Free Press brought the "When/How to MOVE vs When/How to REST" debate to the foreground.
Twinges, pangs? Diagnosis: Boomeritis
"Rigorous exercise is hurting a generation trying to defy aging."
By Lini Kadaba, Philadelphia Inquirer
"Rigorous exercise is hurting a generation trying to defy aging."
By Lini Kadaba, Philadelphia Inquirer
Detroit Free Press 9/27/2009
Michigan's Boomers PICKLE with a passion!
What do you think?
Michigan's Boomers PICKLE with a passion!
What do you think?
Do you PICKLE Morning, Noon, and Night?
And then get up the next day and do it all over again?
Do you spice up your PICKLING?
Strength training? Flexibility/balance exercises? Other sports?
What works for you?
(I would sit and ponder these questions with you, but Papa Razz is willing and waiting to drive me to Troy to play Sunday Night PICKLEBALL! Paddle in hand...I'm out the door...Boom-da-da-boomeritis-or-not...!)
9/25/2009
Memoirs of a Tournament Director by Marilyn Holladay
MEMOIRS OF A TOURNAMENT DIRECTOR
by Marilyn Holladay
The Greater Rochester Pickleball Fest was my first experience at organizing a tournament. I knew it would not be an easy task and I was right. What I didn’t realize was how rewarding and fulfilling it would be.
We worried that there would not be enough participants but players continued to sign up until and after the deadline. This happened because of the members of the committee who spread the word through various contacts. (I have vowed to myself that I will NOT delay in signing up for any tournament I am planning to enter to keep other tournament directors from having sleepless nights about possibly having to cancel.)
We worried about not having enough referees. This proved to not be a problem as players showed up to ref at times they were not scheduled to play and others stepped up to help out after they had lost a second time. Some did game after game without much of a break – and didn’t complain.
Having the competition at an outdoor facility away from our normal courts and equipment added to the time and hassles of setup and cleanup. There were always plenty of players or fans to step forward and help carry equipment, put down tape, put up signs, etc.
I got the kudos for a smooth running tournament but it only happened because of the type of people who make up the Pickleball community here in Michigan. The tournament was planned an executed by a committee but, more importantly, the players were flexible and supportive of each other and of us.
So … if you are thinking of directing a tournament at your local site do not be afraid. There are plenty of people to give you information and support, the USAPA website has guidelines and a checklist for directors and tournament software that guides you through the organization of play. You will maybe have some sleepless nights anyway, but when it is over you will have renewed energy from the great people in the Pickleball world and the added boost of the people who stopped by to watch and expressed enthusiasm about learning to play.
The Greater Rochester Pickleball Fest was my first experience at organizing a tournament. I knew it would not be an easy task and I was right. What I didn’t realize was how rewarding and fulfilling it would be.
We worried that there would not be enough participants but players continued to sign up until and after the deadline. This happened because of the members of the committee who spread the word through various contacts. (I have vowed to myself that I will NOT delay in signing up for any tournament I am planning to enter to keep other tournament directors from having sleepless nights about possibly having to cancel.)
We worried about not having enough referees. This proved to not be a problem as players showed up to ref at times they were not scheduled to play and others stepped up to help out after they had lost a second time. Some did game after game without much of a break – and didn’t complain.
Having the competition at an outdoor facility away from our normal courts and equipment added to the time and hassles of setup and cleanup. There were always plenty of players or fans to step forward and help carry equipment, put down tape, put up signs, etc.
I got the kudos for a smooth running tournament but it only happened because of the type of people who make up the Pickleball community here in Michigan. The tournament was planned an executed by a committee but, more importantly, the players were flexible and supportive of each other and of us.
So … if you are thinking of directing a tournament at your local site do not be afraid. There are plenty of people to give you information and support, the USAPA website has guidelines and a checklist for directors and tournament software that guides you through the organization of play. You will maybe have some sleepless nights anyway, but when it is over you will have renewed energy from the great people in the Pickleball world and the added boost of the people who stopped by to watch and expressed enthusiasm about learning to play.
Marilyn Holladay
USA Pickleball Association Director/Rankings
1st Annual Greater Rochester Pickleball Fest/Tournament Chair
Special Thanks to Photographer George Ingram
MI Pickleball Newsletter Edited by Marilyn Holladay
Michigan Pickleball Newsletter
Edited by Marilyn Holladay, USAPA Director/Rankings
- published once monthly
- emailed to over 500 Picklers across Michigan and beyond
- posted on the MI Pickleball sidebar under the title "Play MI Pickleball"
September 25, 2009 Edition: http://usapa.org/file/mi/MI_Pickleball_News_Sep09.doc
Newsletter Additions/Corrections:
- Start Dates and Parking Instructions for Andover High School Pickleball: The Bloomfield Township Pickleball "walk in" program begins Tuesday, October 13 at the Andover High School fieldhouse, 4700 Andover Rd in Bloomfield, 10:15 AM to Noon. The program runs Tuesdays and Thursdays into early Spring. The "organized ladder" begins October 14, 10:15 AM. Intermediate and advanced skilled players are still needed. Contact Nancy Robertson, 248-229-9047 for details.
Players attending either of these programs would enter at the parking lot gate (it is marked as an exit) with the small security building, turn right and park facing the curb bordering the east side of the parking lot. This is the designated area for players attending Pickleball play at Andover High School."
Kalamazoo Round Robin Doubles Partner Search
Calling all lady Pickleball players:
Kalamazoo has openings for 14 ladies in the Kalamazoo Round Robin Doubles Tournament on Saturday October 3rd. Seeking partners are 8 men in the 65+ Division, 5 men in the 50+ Division and 1 man in the 19+ Division.
Ladies, if you would like to play in this tournament, we have a partner for you! Please contact Melissa Muha ASAP, no later than October 1st at (269)501-6436
http://www.where2pickle.com/
9/24/2009
Pickleball in Bloomfield Township
Pickleball in Bloomfield Township
Pickleball in Bloomfield Twp has three locations.
The new Bloomfield Township Senior Services Center has one indoor court used for instruction and non-organized walk-in play. The instructional format is for players new to Pickleball who wish to have a working knowledge of rules and play patterns before they enter any of the local drop-in centers to play. Please contact Jim Luzod (248-855-2676) to schedule instruction or the Bloomfield Senior Service Center, 248-723-3500 for availability of the indoor court. Instructional fee is $5 and use of the court for open play is $3 per person.
Beginning Tuesday October 13th through early spring! The location for drop-in play will be located at the Bloomfield Andover High School Fieldhouse on Andover Rd in Bloomfield, Tuesday and Thursday mornings, 10:15 AM to Noon. The address is 4700 Andover Rd. No signup is required to play at this location. The fee for drop-in play at Andover High School is $3 per person. Instruction will be available when possible.
Beginning Wednesday October 14th! Organized Ladder competition is offered on Wednesday mornings at the Andover High School site, 10:14 AM to Noon. Prior signup and a $35 fee is required for a seven week period. Intermediate and advanced skilled players are still needed. Contact Nancy Robertson, 248-229-9047 for details.
Pickleball in Bloomfield Twp has three locations.
The new Bloomfield Township Senior Services Center has one indoor court used for instruction and non-organized walk-in play. The instructional format is for players new to Pickleball who wish to have a working knowledge of rules and play patterns before they enter any of the local drop-in centers to play. Please contact Jim Luzod (248-855-2676) to schedule instruction or the Bloomfield Senior Service Center, 248-723-3500 for availability of the indoor court. Instructional fee is $5 and use of the court for open play is $3 per person.
Beginning Tuesday October 13th through early spring! The location for drop-in play will be located at the Bloomfield Andover High School Fieldhouse on Andover Rd in Bloomfield, Tuesday and Thursday mornings, 10:15 AM to Noon. The address is 4700 Andover Rd. No signup is required to play at this location. The fee for drop-in play at Andover High School is $3 per person. Instruction will be available when possible.
Beginning Wednesday October 14th! Organized Ladder competition is offered on Wednesday mornings at the Andover High School site, 10:14 AM to Noon. Prior signup and a $35 fee is required for a seven week period. Intermediate and advanced skilled players are still needed. Contact Nancy Robertson, 248-229-9047 for details.
Designated Pickleball Parking Area at Andover High School: Players attending either of these programs would enter at the parking lot gate (it is marked as an exit) with the small security building, turn right and park facing the curb bordering the east side of the parking lot. This is the designated area for players attending Pickleball play at Andover High School.
Official Pickleball boundary lines have been added to two tennis courts at Bloomfield Hills Middle School and East Hills Middle School. These courts are open to the public at no cost. Pickleball classes will be offered at these sites in the future under the direction of the Bloomfield Hills Parks and Recreation Department.
The USA Pickleball Association has contributed resources and volunteers to support the new Bloomfield programs. Please contact Jim Luzod, 248-855-2676, if there is additional information you need.
KaZoo Doubles Pickleball Tourney in the News
Niles Daily Star
September 24, 2009
Pickleball tourney set for October 2nd and 3rd!!
PORTAGE – The second-ever Pickleball Tournament in Kalamazoo County will be held on October 2nd and 3rd at the Portage YMCA, 2900 W. Centre Avenue, in Portage.
This is a doubles-only event with age group options including 19+, 50+ and 65+ in men’s, women’s and mixed doubles.
The first tournament was held in May and brought in 61 players from 27 cities in Michigan and Ohio.
Because the upcoming tournament in October will be sanctioned by the United States of American Pickleball Association (USAPA), tournament organizers are hoping for even more competitors.
“Because this is a USAPA sanctioned event, winners will receive national ranking points as well as their medals,” said Melissa Muha, Tournament Director. “With a smaller court and a wiffleball that’s large and easy to see, Pickleball has been embraced most notably by the senior set nationwide – but it’s by no means a seniors-only endeavor. The game is actually fast-paced, fun and heart-healthy exercise for all ages.”
Pickleball is a mix of tennis, ping pong and badminton. It is played with a wiffleball and paddle, much like tennis, but with an underhand serve. The sport originated in Seattle, Washington in 1965 and got its name from its co-inventors’ cocker spaniel, Pickles – who apparently liked to join in the fun during their backyard games.
Bill Gates and his father, Bill Gates, Senior, are two of the country’s most famous pickleball players.
The public is encouraged to attend the October event and may even participate as a referee (where they will join local sports figures like Jack Vredevelt, former tennis coach at WMU). Referees call the game, record the score and settle disputes.
A referee training sessions has been schedule for Wednesday, Sept. 30 from 6:30-9:00 p.m. at the Maple Street YMCA.
Because several men competitors are still seeking Mixed Double partners, tournament organizers are also putting out a call for women who might be interested in playing in the event.
Anyone interested in registering for the free training or women interested in tournament participation should call (269) 501-6436 or e-mail picklemaster@where2pickle.com .
September 24, 2009
Pickleball tourney set for October 2nd and 3rd!!
PORTAGE – The second-ever Pickleball Tournament in Kalamazoo County will be held on October 2nd and 3rd at the Portage YMCA, 2900 W. Centre Avenue, in Portage.
This is a doubles-only event with age group options including 19+, 50+ and 65+ in men’s, women’s and mixed doubles.
The first tournament was held in May and brought in 61 players from 27 cities in Michigan and Ohio.
Because the upcoming tournament in October will be sanctioned by the United States of American Pickleball Association (USAPA), tournament organizers are hoping for even more competitors.
“Because this is a USAPA sanctioned event, winners will receive national ranking points as well as their medals,” said Melissa Muha, Tournament Director. “With a smaller court and a wiffleball that’s large and easy to see, Pickleball has been embraced most notably by the senior set nationwide – but it’s by no means a seniors-only endeavor. The game is actually fast-paced, fun and heart-healthy exercise for all ages.”
Pickleball is a mix of tennis, ping pong and badminton. It is played with a wiffleball and paddle, much like tennis, but with an underhand serve. The sport originated in Seattle, Washington in 1965 and got its name from its co-inventors’ cocker spaniel, Pickles – who apparently liked to join in the fun during their backyard games.
Bill Gates and his father, Bill Gates, Senior, are two of the country’s most famous pickleball players.
The public is encouraged to attend the October event and may even participate as a referee (where they will join local sports figures like Jack Vredevelt, former tennis coach at WMU). Referees call the game, record the score and settle disputes.
A referee training sessions has been schedule for Wednesday, Sept. 30 from 6:30-9:00 p.m. at the Maple Street YMCA.
Because several men competitors are still seeking Mixed Double partners, tournament organizers are also putting out a call for women who might be interested in playing in the event.
Anyone interested in registering for the free training or women interested in tournament participation should call (269) 501-6436 or e-mail picklemaster@where2pickle.com .
For more information about the Pickleball tournament, visit www.where2pickle.com .
9/21/2009
Pickleball Quotable: Marika Blumerick
PICKLEBALL Quotable:
"If it required work, I'd work. If it required failure, I'd do that too." Marika Blumerick
"If it required work, I'd work. If it required failure, I'd do that too." Marika Blumerick
9/18/2009
Pickleball is coming to Full Blast by Clark and Ann Maddox
BattleCreekEnquirer.com
September 18, 2009
Pickleball is coming to Full Blast
By Clark and Ann Maddox
Pickleball is a fun game that's easy to learn and can be played by young and old for recreation or competitively. It's like tennis, badminton, ping pong and volleyball all rolled into one. It's played with wood or composite paddies and perforated plastic balls (like whiffle balls) over a 3 foot net.
Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the US and has been played in various locations in Battle Creek for the last 2-3 years, mostly on tennis courts and driveways.
There are now a number of local enthusiasts, including Clark and Ann Maddox, who first played it in Florida when they wintered there. Clark used to play tennis but says this is more fun and much easier on the body since it doesn't involve as much running. Ann says you don't have to be a great athlete to play and it's very good exercise.
You can play PICKLEBALL at Full Blast from 10am to 12 noon beginning Saturday, October 3 and October 10, 17 , 24, 3I and November 7, 14 and December 5, 12, and 19. The cost is $4 per session or $20 for all 10 sessions. Paddles and balls are provided. Everyone is welcome including those who haven't played before since it's easy to learn.
If you have any questions call Clark or Ann at 968-6365.
September 18, 2009
Pickleball is coming to Full Blast
By Clark and Ann Maddox
Pickleball is a fun game that's easy to learn and can be played by young and old for recreation or competitively. It's like tennis, badminton, ping pong and volleyball all rolled into one. It's played with wood or composite paddies and perforated plastic balls (like whiffle balls) over a 3 foot net.
Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports in the US and has been played in various locations in Battle Creek for the last 2-3 years, mostly on tennis courts and driveways.
There are now a number of local enthusiasts, including Clark and Ann Maddox, who first played it in Florida when they wintered there. Clark used to play tennis but says this is more fun and much easier on the body since it doesn't involve as much running. Ann says you don't have to be a great athlete to play and it's very good exercise.
You can play PICKLEBALL at Full Blast from 10am to 12 noon beginning Saturday, October 3 and October 10, 17 , 24, 3I and November 7, 14 and December 5, 12, and 19. The cost is $4 per session or $20 for all 10 sessions. Paddles and balls are provided. Everyone is welcome including those who haven't played before since it's easy to learn.
If you have any questions call Clark or Ann at 968-6365.
9/17/2009
Bloomfield Hills Outdoor Courts Lined for Pickleball!
HI Everyone...
We join Royal Oak, Troy and Traverse City as communities with outdoor courts permanently lined for Pickleball. Two tennis courts at Bloomfield Hills Middle School and two courts at East Hills Middle School have Pickleball lines added to the court space.There is no fee for the use of the courts for open play. Eventually, there will be structured programs for all ages as we continue to introduce Pickleball and provide instruction.
Harry Tremonti, the Bloomfield Hills Physical Plant Manager, was instrumental in helping us get the work completed. Although the does not yet play the game, he saw the value in providing additional space for seniors to expand there active lives through Pickleball. Maybe we can get Harry on the courts one of these days. Go for it, Harry!
Enjoy!
We join Royal Oak, Troy and Traverse City as communities with outdoor courts permanently lined for Pickleball. Two tennis courts at Bloomfield Hills Middle School and two courts at East Hills Middle School have Pickleball lines added to the court space.There is no fee for the use of the courts for open play. Eventually, there will be structured programs for all ages as we continue to introduce Pickleball and provide instruction.
Harry Tremonti, the Bloomfield Hills Physical Plant Manager, was instrumental in helping us get the work completed. Although the does not yet play the game, he saw the value in providing additional space for seniors to expand there active lives through Pickleball. Maybe we can get Harry on the courts one of these days. Go for it, Harry!
Enjoy!
Jim Luzod
9/16/2009
where2pickle.com
USAPA Ambassador Melissa Muha (Portage)
USAPA Ambassador Bob Northrop (Kalamazoo)
EXCELLENT Michigan Pickleball Tournaments
EXCELLENT Michigan Pickleball Website
Ken Cron and son Nick Cron3rd Place 21+ Men's Open Doubles
May 2009 Kalamazoo Spicy Pickleball Tournament
EXCELLENT Michigan Pickleball Photo Albums
9/15/2009
Friendly Bantering: GLR vs ASR
On Tuesday, September 15, 2009 at 8:02am, Donna Donald, USAPA Atlantic South Regional Ambassador wrote: ………Another perspective on USAPA Membership………………
Whenever the USAPA or anyone for that matter mentioned the word ‘membership’ the Atlantic South Region was always the first to come to mind. All of us have held our head high and let everyone know just how proud we are of that accomplishment.
I’m sure you all read the article in the e-newsletter, from Janet Razz regarding
The Great Lakes Region , and then the message for our fearless leader, Dick Manasseri about the membership numbers. Yes, the Great Lakes Region has surpassed the efforts of the Atlantic South.
Now, we can always go to the USAPA and challenge the numbers! After all, look at how many of our Atlantic South ‘snowbirds’ joined the USAPA and used their ‘non-snowbird’ address. Take all those people from the north and Canada and give them “dual Regional Membership” and we’d probably be back on top!! Well, yes we could – but we won’t!!
Our Atlantic South Region is strong! Some of our Ambassadors last year did a stellar job in building our membership – Remember the growth from the Sebring, Fl area, and Bob Taylor’s hard work on Anna Maria Island? And what about those Ambassadors from The Villages! Dick shared with us a recent article in Masters Athlete Magazine, where they identified the Top Ten List of places to play Pickleball. And the Atlantic South came in Number One, recognizing The Villages as a “pickleball paradise.” They also have the largest USAPA membership of any pickleball community in the country.
We can regain our No. 1 Ranking as a Region. Our new Ambassadors in NC are setting the pace. Let’s follow! Hat’s off to the Great Lakes Region! Congratulations on your success. Let’s keep the challenge on and take back the lead.
As of this printing: Great Lakes – 348 Atlantic South - 339
:::::
On Tuesday, September 15, 2009 at 12:01pm, Janet Razz wrote:
Dear ASR Pickleball Movers and Shakers!!
Thank you for ALL you do to grow PICKLEBALL!
And to grow USAPA Membership!
USAPA only allowed me to become a Member because I had $20. and they needed someone to test out the often repeated statement that to play pickleball there is "no athletic skill required".
(If I posted a partner search I'd have to write: "Left-handed 55-59 division female player wants advanced 5.0 partner that can cover his/her side of the court AND carry mine -- as I unpredictably interfere with your shots and get in your way." )
My lack of ability to hit the ball, hasn't stopped me from falling in love with the game AND the community of players. My competitive nature isn't dampened by the fact that dinks, lobs, ground shots...still elude me. That same nature begs me to respond to Donna Donald's "Another perspective on USAPA Membership"....
BUT since being 'smart and serious*' the first half of my life didn't get me very far...I've resolved to spend the next half of my life "cheerful and stupid".
Instead of entering into the friendly bantering about whose #1...I'll just wow you by posting photos of my sweet babygrands...http://mipickleball.usapa.org/2009/09/membership-on-grow.html
Enjoy the PoP! POp! Janet Razz
*Geek alert: An official past president of the "Look-it-up Club" I actually looked up the word BANTERING ,prior to writing this post.
Whenever the USAPA or anyone for that matter mentioned the word ‘membership’ the Atlantic South Region was always the first to come to mind. All of us have held our head high and let everyone know just how proud we are of that accomplishment.
I’m sure you all read the article in the e-newsletter, from Janet Razz regarding
The Great Lakes Region , and then the message for our fearless leader, Dick Manasseri about the membership numbers. Yes, the Great Lakes Region has surpassed the efforts of the Atlantic South.
Now, we can always go to the USAPA and challenge the numbers! After all, look at how many of our Atlantic South ‘snowbirds’ joined the USAPA and used their ‘non-snowbird’ address. Take all those people from the north and Canada and give them “dual Regional Membership” and we’d probably be back on top!! Well, yes we could – but we won’t!!
Our Atlantic South Region is strong! Some of our Ambassadors last year did a stellar job in building our membership – Remember the growth from the Sebring, Fl area, and Bob Taylor’s hard work on Anna Maria Island? And what about those Ambassadors from The Villages! Dick shared with us a recent article in Masters Athlete Magazine, where they identified the Top Ten List of places to play Pickleball. And the Atlantic South came in Number One, recognizing The Villages as a “pickleball paradise.” They also have the largest USAPA membership of any pickleball community in the country.
We can regain our No. 1 Ranking as a Region. Our new Ambassadors in NC are setting the pace. Let’s follow! Hat’s off to the Great Lakes Region! Congratulations on your success. Let’s keep the challenge on and take back the lead.
As of this printing: Great Lakes – 348 Atlantic South - 339
:::::
On Tuesday, September 15, 2009 at 12:01pm, Janet Razz wrote:
Dear ASR Pickleball Movers and Shakers!!
Thank you for ALL you do to grow PICKLEBALL!
And to grow USAPA Membership!
USAPA only allowed me to become a Member because I had $20. and they needed someone to test out the often repeated statement that to play pickleball there is "no athletic skill required".
(If I posted a partner search I'd have to write: "Left-handed 55-59 division female player wants advanced 5.0 partner that can cover his/her side of the court AND carry mine -- as I unpredictably interfere with your shots and get in your way." )
My lack of ability to hit the ball, hasn't stopped me from falling in love with the game AND the community of players. My competitive nature isn't dampened by the fact that dinks, lobs, ground shots...still elude me. That same nature begs me to respond to Donna Donald's "Another perspective on USAPA Membership"....
BUT since being 'smart and serious*' the first half of my life didn't get me very far...I've resolved to spend the next half of my life "cheerful and stupid".
Instead of entering into the friendly bantering about whose #1...I'll just wow you by posting photos of my sweet babygrands...http://mipickleball.usapa.org/2009/09/membership-on-grow.html
Enjoy the PoP! POp! Janet Razz
*Geek alert: An official past president of the "Look-it-up Club" I actually looked up the word BANTERING ,prior to writing this post.
Membership on the Grow
This morning, there was a little friendly chatter across the net about Membership growth in the USAPA Atlantic South Region vs Membership growth in the Number One Region USAPA Great Lakes.The Great Lakes Region humbly confesses...Yes! A certain well known area in the Atlantic South Region is rightly called "Pickleball Paradise"! Yes! The Atlantic South Region has 100+ windscreened pickleball dedicated courts! Yes! Atlantic South Region has SUNSHINE! Yes! Donna Donald, the newly appointed Atlantic South Regional Ambassador has plenty to boast about!
Congratulations, Donna!
Now that I have that out of the way...I need to confess that I'm even worse at math than I am at sports, so I won't attempt to enter any stats here about the GLR vs ASR Player to Member ratios :O! Enough to say what I would to Rich Donald, if I was ever lucky enough to be across the net from him in a friendly game of pickleball: "I am not your competition!"
(I have never even played on a pickleball dedicated court. I play in gyms with so many lines on the floor that I not only get a great physical workout when I play pickleball -- I get a healthy dose of dementia prevention.)
So please understand, Donna, that when I enter the youngest Atlantic South Region Member, Baby Boy Razz, using my Great Lakes Region address, it is in hopes that he comes home to visit grannie often, despite the fact that 'I stay out of the kitchen'! O and to cement the Great Lakes lead...read the message in the sand from my Michigan cutie patootie.
Happy to be growing pickleball TOGETHER! Happy to belong to a large and loving 4 generation family! Happy to belong to the largest community of pickleball players in the world: USAPA!
PoP! POp!
Yours in pickleball, Janet Razz
Good News from NC !
Baby Boy Razz Expected 2-2-2010!
My Atlantic South Region Future Mixed Generation Pickleball Partner!
My Atlantic South Region Future Mixed Generation Pickleball Partner!
AND
Good News from MI!
Home in the Great Lakes Region, my cutie patootie with an
important sandmessage about the Razz family membership growth
Look-it-up Club: Friendly Pickleball "BANTERING"
BANTER, v.t. To play upon in words and in good humor; to rally; to joke, or jest with. Banter hardly amounts to ridicule, much less to derision. It consists in being pleasant and witty with the actions of another, and raising a humorous laugh at his expense, often attended with some degree of sarcasm.
BANTER, n. A joking or jesting; raillery; wit or humor; pleasantry.
---
BANTERED, pp. Rallied; laughed at in good humor.
---
BANTERER, n. One who banters, or laughs at with pleasantry.
---
BANTERING, ppr. Joking; laughing at with good humor.
BANTER, n. A joking or jesting; raillery; wit or humor; pleasantry.
---
BANTERED, pp. Rallied; laughed at in good humor.
---
BANTERER, n. One who banters, or laughs at with pleasantry.
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BANTERING, ppr. Joking; laughing at with good humor.
9/14/2009
KaZoo Pickleball Tournament! Go!
CLICK HERE FOR AN ENTRY FORM
REGISTRATION CLOSES SEPTEMBER 15, 2009 - THAT'S TOMORROW!!
Come to Kalamazoo this Fall for two days of Pickleball fun!
REGISTRATION CLOSES SEPTEMBER 15, 2009 - THAT'S TOMORROW!!
Come to Kalamazoo this Fall for two days of Pickleball fun!
- Friday Oct 2nd - Pickleball Skills Drills PLUS "Crazy Mixed Up Doubles" from 6-9:30 PM
- Saturday October 3rd - Fall Doubles Tournament from 8 AM - 7 PM
Enjoy Round Robin tournament play on 7 courts for Mixed, Women's and Men's Doubles in three ages groups: 19+, 50+ and 65+. Winners will receive ranking points (if they are USAPA Members), medals and awesome pickleball players' applause. Entry discounts apply for USAPA members.
Saturday's Round Robin Pickleball format guarantees at least 3 games per team. Flight winners advance to a Round Robin final play-off. The Portage YMCA offers SEVEN pickleball courts plus sky-box lounge and play-level locker rooms. Participants will receive a T-Shirt from Lee's Adventure Sports, hospitality bag of gifts from local sponsors. Paddles will be available on-site for purchase. Pizza Party Friday night, Morning coffee, breakfast pastries, water, fruit, energy bars, box lunch, snacks, fresh filtered water, Snapple & sports drinks during the day are included.
Friday evening includes a free Pickleball clinic for registered competitors (others can participate for $10 pp) followed by Crazy Mixed-Up Doubles with fun prizes & awards. This is a "mixer-style" event, so expect to be surprised who your partner will be when the bell rings! Refreshments will be provided.
Tournament registration is limited to 16 teams* in each of 9 divisions on a "first come-first served" basis. Divisions are Mixed 19+; Mixed 50+, Mixed 65+, Women's 19+, Women's 50+, Women's 65+, Men's 19+, Men's 50+ & Men's 65+. The age of any team is based upon the youngest player as of December 31, 2009. Teams may compete in a younger bracket, but they may not compete in an older one.
Hope to see you here in Kazoo October 2 and 3 !!!
Best regards,
Melissa Muha - Tournament Director
Kalamazoo Fall Doubles Pickleball Tournament
www.where2pickle.org
(*The Tournament Director reserves the right to combine, modify or delete brackets based on participation.)
Traverse City Picklers PoP to the ToP!
30th Annual
Northwest Senior Games
Traverse City, Michigan
Pickleball TournamentTraverse City Senior Center Picklers
Photos courtesy of Tom Valentine, Pickleball Goodies
Winners Circle: Skip Kramer (Rochester Hills & Kalkaska) First Place, Brian Rysberg (Traverse City) Second Place, and Janice Postma (Grandville) Third Place.
These are the first photos we have of a Michigan Pickleball Tournament being played on OUTDOOR PICKLEBALL dedicated courts. Very impressive! Beautiful to see active smiling seniors enjoying Michigan OUTDOOR PICKLEBALL, Michigan sunshine and Michigan hospitality!!! Traverse City Picklers PoP to the ToP!!! Congratulations on a well planned out and well implemented OUTDOOR PICKLEBALL Tournament!!!
Enjoy group photos of the Traverse City Senior Center Pickleball Players here: http://mipickleball.usapa.org/2009/09/traverse-city-pickleball-players.html
9/13/2009
Fall 2009 USAPA MI Pickleball Ladder Leagues
Spectacular Michigan Harvest
Fall 2009 USAPA Michigan Pickleball Ladder Leagues
Join the 113 Michigan Picklers already registered to reap the ripe harvest of Michigan Pickleball Ladder Leagues. Ladder matches offer the player three games to 15, win by 1, about one hour of sustained play with players of similar skill level. Some of Michigan's leagues are still accepting new players for the fall season. Please contact the ladder manager for specific details and local policies.9/12/2009
Traverse City Pickleball Players
Traverse City Pickleball Players
Traverse City Senior Center Wednesday Players
Traverse City Senior Center Thursday Players
9/11/2009
Remembrance and Honor
In face of human tragedy,
even wise words fail us and
we often fail one another.
But God will not fail us.
Leaving the unfathomable
in His trustworthy hands,
we melt, embrace, and
in humble sincerity whisper
"I'm sorry for your loss."
September 11, 2009.
even wise words fail us and
we often fail one another.
But God will not fail us.
Leaving the unfathomable
in His trustworthy hands,
we melt, embrace, and
in humble sincerity whisper
"I'm sorry for your loss."
September 11, 2009.
9/10/2009
"Train the Trainer" By Wayne Roswell
Michigan and Canada share 721 border miles AND we share the love of PICKLEBALL! Many thanks to Wayne Roswell Pickleball Promoter, for his newest contribution to the PICKLEBALL community, "Train the Trainer"!
By Wayne Roswell
Pickleball Canada
9/09/2009
Pickleball spices up family gatherings!
PICKLEBALL spices up family gatherings!
Play PICKLEBALL with your family!
Free Beginners' Demo Clinic
- Rochester Adam's High School Gym
- Saturday, September 12, 2009
- 2:00pm - 4:30pm
- Equipment provided
- Wear court shoes
The Rochester Pickleball Club, sponsored by Rochester Community Schools Enrichment, will meet every Saturday afternoon 2-4:30pm at Adams High School starting September 12. Experienced players from the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA) will be on hand each week to provide beginner lessons and to organize play for families and other groups who want to have fun or work on their skills. Recreational Speed Pickleball will be part of the fun, plus competitive games for the adventurous.
Starting September 19, a drop-in fee of $5. per person or a discounted Pickleball Punch Card will be required.
- RCS Discounted Famly Pickleball Punch Card: $50. for 5 punches. One punch admits up to 5 players in one family ($2./person for a family of 5 or $2.50/person for a family of 4).
- RCS Discounted Pickleball Punch Card: $30. for 10 punches. One punch admits one player. Friends/family members may share the Pickleball Punch Card ($3./person).
- Teens aged 15+ may play without their parents. A valid picture school ID is required.
Pickleball Punch Cards may be purchased at Rochester Community Schools Enrichment Department in the Administration Center, 501 W. University Drive.
9/08/2009
Happy Birthday! MI Pickleball!
Google Blogger is "push button publishing" that helped to put Michigan Pickleball on the map AND look what they sent in honor of MI Pickleball's 1st Birthday :) ! Make a wish..........................
New Adventurous Relationship Builder: PICKLEBALL!
Relationships are always the best adventures! One way moms, aunts, and grannies build relationships is by being "The WATCHER"! We delight in attending our kiddos' sporting events and cheering them on. Pickleball gave me a new and adventurous way to build relationships. I always have and always will delight in being "The WATCHER", but - thanks to pickleball - now I'm "The PLAYER" too! Pickleball is a great game for all ages and all skill levels. Pickleball is an easy game to learn and an engaging Mixed Generation game to PLAY!
9/07/2009
Family Guessing Game!
Dear Picklers!
Labor Day 2007 Pat Sullivan sent an email to picklers in SE Michigan inviting them to play pickleball at Rochester High School. There were less than a dozen players in SE Michigan.
Labor Day 2008 the MI Pickleball blog was planted. USAPA Volunteers were actively tilling, seeding and harvesting courts full of pickleball across Michigan's bountiful landscape. http://mipickleball.usapa.org/2008/09/grandma-found-her-game.html
Labor Day 2009 Pickleball is widely recognized as Michigan's 'fastest growing sport' among 'seasoned citizens' and is beginning to take root among our 'younger friends'.
On this, MI Pickleball's one year anniversary, please indulge me as I take a whimsical aside from our FANTASTIC growth of PICKLEBALL to focus on my family growth via a family guessing game. You are welcome to guess too! The first family member with the correct answer wins tickets to the Detroit Zoo. The first pickler with the correct answer wins a fresh lime green pickleball.
Family Guessing Game:
Peek-a-boo ::: Guess Who!?!
Dear Mom, Kiddos, Sibs,
Nieces, Nephews, Aunts and Cousins,
We WoWed at 4!
Now there's 1 more!
A prize to the first to guess
who else is expecting their second!
xox
Clues:
- 'Big Sister' is now the youngest of Grandma Ida's 10 GREATS!
- Baby Dear will be the youngest of Grandma Ida's 15 GREATS!
9/05/2009
Pickleball! Today's Detroit Free Press!
September 5, 2009
Detroit Free Press
Older adults loving pickleball, a game that's easy on joints*
By Zlati Meyer, Free Press Staff Writer
*The September 5, 2009 print edition of the Detroit Free Press features this article on page 3A. This article can also be accessed if you copy and paste the entire address below into your web browser. http://www.freep.com/article/20090905/NEWS05/909050366
'Older adults' do indeed love pickleball! And so do our 'younger friends'! Find out why! Places to Play Michigan Pickleball: http://usapa.org/ptp/index.php?code=MI
Detroit Free Press
Older adults loving pickleball, a game that's easy on joints*
By Zlati Meyer, Free Press Staff Writer
*The September 5, 2009 print edition of the Detroit Free Press features this article on page 3A. This article can also be accessed if you copy and paste the entire address below into your web browser. http://www.freep.com/article/20090905/NEWS05/909050366'Older adults' do indeed love pickleball! And so do our 'younger friends'! Find out why! Places to Play Michigan Pickleball: http://usapa.org/ptp/index.php?code=MI
9/04/2009
Auburn Hills! Tuesday Morning Pickleball League!
There is no need for a partner, and you can enter or leave the ladder at any time. Players will play others of similar levels in a round robin format and will move up or down the ladder based on their winning percentage. If you cannot commit to the ladder you can get on a sub list with the coordinator. The last day there will be a lunch and awards.
For any questions call Senior Fitness Coordinator Michelle Pozan at 248-365-6796, or Volunteer Ladder Chief Patty Bedard (248) 879-2815.
• Date: Tuesdays, Sept. 8-Nov. 17
• Time: 9:30 AM-12:00 PM
• Cost: Residents $25.00 ::: Non-Resident $30.00
Auburn Hills Community Center Registration # 452041
9/03/2009
Pure Michigan Pickleball!
Best Places to Live: Pickleball
By Dan Rabin
"Masters Athlete magazine has ranked the top pickleball communities in North America. The towns were judged on facilities, both in terms of quantity and quantity; the number and quality of players; and the weather. In the end, only one community could be called Pickleball Paradise…" http://www.masters-athlete.com/public/464.cfm
MI Pickleball Players that would like to see Michigan's name tossed in the hat as one of the best places in North America to PLAY PICKLEBALL!
MI Pickleball! FUN! Friends! Fitness
PLAY MI Pickleball
Ada, Ann Arbor, Auburn Hills, Big Rapids, Birmingham, Canton, Chelsea, Clarkston, Clinton Twp., Coldwater, Durand, East Lansing, Farmington Hills, Ferndale, Grand Rapids, Hartland, Holland, Howell, Kalamazoo, Midland, Milford, Muskegon, New Baltimore, Northville, Oak Park, Oscoda, Oxford, Portage, Rochester, Rochester Hills, Royal Oak, Saginaw, Saline, Southfield, Spring Arbor, Sterling Heights, Traverse City, Troy, Warren, Waterford
USAPA Pickleball Partner Search & Rating Descriptions
USAPA Pickleball Partner Search is a registry of players that are looking for partners for one or more upcoming tournaments.
The USAPA Partner Search page is the "go to" place for Picklers to find tournament partners. Read how one woman is using the USAPA Partner Search and putting her USAPA Ranking Points to good use.
"Arizona Nationals looking for 4.5 male I have been playing against 4.5 & 4.0 in tournaments this year and currently have 2300 ranking points."
The most recent Great Lakes Region USAPA Member, Pete Pleban (MN), writes: "Pre-req., Agile: according to Webster, quick and well coordinated, active, lively, mentally acute or aware and according to me : Work hard, Play hard, Have Fun. Ciao."
Pete's good natured sense of humor is inviting. I'm the same age as Pete. I'm certainly agile. I meet the prerequisites, both according to Webster and according to Pete. But the USAPA Pickleball Partner Search form wisely includes a box to mark your skill level. Pete is a 4.0! I self-identify at the 3.0 skill level...and I worked hard, played hard, and had FUN getting to this level!
Thankfully USAPA places a high value on the recreational as well as the competitive Picklers!
USAPA National Pickleball Tournament
TIME TO REGISTERUSA Pickleball Association
National Pickleball Tournament
GO! http://usapa.org/nationals/index.php
- Sun City Festival
- Buckeye, Arizona
- November 2-8, 2009
- Events will include singles, doubles and mixed doubles in all divisions. Awards will be given to the top three finishers in each event. There will be cash prizes for open division winners. Award winners will receive USAPA Ranking Points (Tier 1).
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