Good morning pickleballers!
I'm back with your daily dose of pickleball news and, of course, to remind you that the World Pickleball Magazine is now on sale.
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Issue #1 is 80 pages packed full of pickleball goodness - interviews with some of the main characters from England's European Championship team last year, our English Open champion Mollie Knaggs' favourite drill explained and snippets from pickleball in Africa, APAC and beyond, we've got you completely covered.
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Now, on with the news!
Daytona Beach Ready: APP Tour Set for Action in Florida
The APP Tour is back in action this week with the Daytona Beach Open, set to take place at Pictona at Holly Hill, one of Florida's premier pickleball venues. Following a brief hiatus after the Fort Lauderdale Open, many players are returning from long international trips, which may lead to some unexpected results due to jet lag.
The tournament, running from February 6-9, will feature both singles and doubles matches, with live coverage on APPTV via YouTube, Court Sports Network, and Facebook. Key storylines include Megan Fudge's quest to continue her dominance in women's singles, following her recent victory at the Fort Lauderdale Open. In the men's bracket, all top eight seeds from the Fort Lauderdale Open will be playing at Daytona. Additionally, the mixed doubles division will feature the top two teams on the APP Tour, Howells and Braverman, looking to continue their winning streak.
Weather conditions are expected to be ideal for play with minimal wind, so the players can be expected to perform at their best. The Daytona Beach Open promises a weekend of high-level pickleball action. The tournament features a large qualifying draw, with 41 men and 35 teams competing for a limited number of main draw spots. In the women's doubles division, only 31 teams are competing, making it the smallest pro division.
Tucson Beckons: PPA Tour Heads to Arizona for Next Big Event
The PPA Tour is heading to the Tucson Racquet and Fitness Club this week for the Proton Tucson Open, with professional draws released across all five divisions. Following the successful Australian Open, where Aussie players showed their skill, the Tucson tournament is set to feature a mix of international and US-based stars, including Australian players Tom Evans and Helena Spiridis who have signed with the PPA.
The tournament promises exciting matchups and will be broadcast, with updates available on PPA Tour's social media channels. The draws include both singles and doubles, with many top players competing. After her two gold medal wins in Australia, all eyes will be on Lacy Schneemann to see if she can continue her success in Tucson. Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns will also return to the court as a mixed doubles team.
The event in Tucson is also noteworthy as the next opportunity for players to earn points in the integrated PPA and MLP system. The UPA, which has been working on building a business and platform for pickleball, continues to emphasize the importance of such events to increase the overall exposure and fanbase for professional pickleball. With both established stars and rising talent, the Proton Tucson Open is set to be a thrilling competition.
Jawans' Journey: Bengaluru Team's Unforgettable Run in World Pickleball League
The Bengaluru Jawans recently concluded an exciting season in the World Pickleball League, leaving a lasting impression with their spirited performances. Team owner Atlee expressed immense pride in the team's dedication and performance, emphasizing their focus, energy, and inspiration for the next generation of players. He specifically praised their coach, Oliver, referring to him as 'Pickleball Dhoni' for his composed and strategic approach.
While the season might be over, the Jawans are not slowing down. The team is looking to continue its growth in the pickleball arena by hosting tournaments and getting more people in their region involved in the sport. The team also included a number of notable players such as Vrushali, known as the "Hammer" from India, Felix, and Jack, who remained unbeaten. Atlee also noted the incredible doubles pairing of Marcello and Mauro, who have a 34-year age gap.
According to Atlee, pickleball is not just a sport but also a great way to improve both mental and physical health; he sees the sport growing rapidly in India and around the world. The team's success is credited to key figures behind the scenes, such as Jameel, the CFO, and Ani, the team manager. Looking ahead, the Bengaluru Jawans are planning a return next season, determined to compete for the title once again.
MLB Star J.D. Martinez Goes Pro: Baseball Slugger Takes on Pickleball
Six-time MLB All-Star and World Series champion J.D. Martinez has officially announced his transition to professional pickleball, signing an exclusive deal with JOOLA. Martinez, who played for the New York Mets in 2024 and is currently a free agent, is now set to pursue a career in a different sport. This move is fueled by his love for pickleball, which he was introduced to by a neighbour. He quickly became so invested in the sport that he built a court at his own home.
Martinez has already begun training under JOOLA pro Eric White and will focus on translating his baseball swing to the pickleball court. JOOLA will provide Martinez with comprehensive support, including coaching, equipment, and backing to compete in professional events, like the PPA Challenger Series. Martinez, 37, noted he is drawn to pickleball because people of all ages can compete on an equal level.
Martinez was also recently named as the newest member of "The Fort", a world-class pickleball facility in Fort Lauderdale, which is home to the world’s first dedicated pickleball stadium. Martinez stated that every time he steps onto the court, he feels that he uncovers another layer of the game, keeping him engaged and wanting to improve. Martinez is not the only athlete crossing over to pickleball; several former tennis players are also now playing professionally.
New Leader at the Helm: Justin Romero Named Executive Director of USOP National Pickleball Centre
Former college tennis player and professional pickleball player, Justin Romero, has been appointed as the new executive director of the USOP National Pickleball Center (NPC) in Naples, Florida. The facility, owned by Pickleball 4 America, is a premier pickleball destination, and Romero will oversee all aspects of its operations including membership, instruction, and the pro shop.
Romero brings a wealth of experience to the role, having previously served as the director of racquet sports at the Ocean Reef Club in Key Largo, Florida, for 13 years. According to Romero, the USOP NPC is the “gold standard of pickleball facilities around the world,” and he is excited to lead the team of teaching professionals at the centre. Mike Dee, chairman of Pickleball 4 America, stated that the organization is committed to being world-class in everything it does, starting with its people.
The USOP NPC boasts 65 courts and is a significant hub for pickleball activity. The centre also aims to be a world-renowned destination for pickleball enthusiasts. This appointment comes at a time of rapid growth for pickleball, with new facilities and programs being developed to meet the increasing demand. Romero's leadership is expected to further enhance the NPC’s reputation as a leading training and playing destination for pickleball.
Rising Stars: Meet the New Names Making Waves in Professional Pickleball
The world of professional pickleball is seeing an influx of new talent, with several players emerging as rising stars. Among them is Sofia Sewing, a former pro tennis player who has transitioned to pickleball full-time and is already making a significant impact. She is seeded 16th at the upcoming APP Daytona Beach Open, and is predicted to make it to the semi-finals.
The NextGen program has also played a crucial role in developing new talent, with players like Richard Livornese and Eric Oncins gaining experience and recognition. Livornese credits the program for giving him a shot, and for providing coaching, partners, and financial support. The program has helped him to develop his technical form and strategy. These players have moved from being the ones asking for help, to becoming leaders and mentors for new players.
Daniel Mason Redefines Pickleball with Adaptive Technique
Daniel Mason, a pickleball player born without hands and with half a left arm, is making waves in the sport by proving that limitations do not define potential. After being introduced to pickleball by coach Sabine Brezina at the David Lloyd Clubs, Mason has developed a unique method to play. He uses a technique inspired by disabled pickleballer Petey Bruce in the USA that involves using boxer's wrap to bind the paddle to his arm. This method, while still "a work in progress," allows him to participate and compete.
Mason emphasizes the importance of coaches seeing positive opportunities rather than potential obstacles. He credits Brezina's encouragement as critical to giving him the confidence to try the sport. For Mason, pickleball is more than just a game, it's brought a "shift of one's identity," profoundly impacting his confidence and overall well-being. He now feels physically active in a way that he had not imagined before.
Sabine Brezina, who has also competed at the European Championship, says she treats Daniel no differently than any other player. Mason also wants to ensure that players with disabilities are included in regular play and not just in adaptive categories, to provide flexibility based on skill. He is actively working with Pickleball England to share his experiences and help develop inclusive policies. His efforts are inspiring many others to join the sport.
Additionally, the UPA Asia Trailblazers Program is designed to increase the competitiveness of Asian talent, providing opportunities for players to train and compete in the US. This initiative is expected to introduce a new wave of international players to the professional ranks, further diversifying the talent pool. The program is also creating a pathway through the integrated PPA and MLP system. These new programs and players point to an exciting future for professional pickleball.