Pickleball hero

Let It Go:

Hey Paddle fam, we’ve got a hot take for this week’s key to the game: Quit swinging at every ball!

Yep, that’s right. Hitting every ball isn’t doing you any favors. If you think about it, we’ve hit so many outballs that we’ve lost count. Imagine how many easy points you could win just by dodging a ball. It’s time to learn when to let a ball go.

If you see a high-flying ball coming your way, let it soar above your shoulders and watch it go out. An effortless point just by stepping aside or giving your paddle a well-deserved breather. It's a freebie, my friend!

Sure, some may sneak in, but most of them will take a dive right out of the court. Don't waste your energy on every single ball. Master the art of selectivity, and your game will evolve.

Check out this video for a good drill to practice:

Not All Heroes Wear Capes:

In the vibrant pickleball community of Hancock, Michigan, there is one individual who stands out for his unwavering dedication and tireless efforts in fostering the growth and development of the sport. Meet Rick Freeman, a true champion of pickleball.

Rick is a familiar face on the local courts, where he can often be found as early as 7am mopping, sweeping, and ensuring that everything is in perfect order for players to enjoy their matches. He has become the go-to person for all things related to the sport in the Copper Country.

But Rick's journey in pickleball began with a chance encounter. Alongside his friend Gerald Parker, he discovered the game while vacationing in Florida.

Over the years, Rick has proven himself to be a remarkable leader and a wellspring of knowledge for players of all levels. Whether it's maintaining the courts, procuring equipment for newcomers, or updating the local club's website, he consistently goes above and beyond to ensure a vibrant pickleball scene in Hancock.

Last summer, Rick spearheaded an ambitious project to transform the Laurn-Grove tennis courts into dedicated pickleball courts. He secured the necessary resources, garnered support from local officials and businesses, and successfully accomplished the resurfacing.

Rick Freeman's passion and dedication has definitely left a positive mark on the local pickleball community.

1- MLP team valuations have surged to $10 million, a 100-fold increase since the league's establishment in 2021, according to CEO Julio DePietro. Previously, some teams were being acquired for as low as $100,000! This highlights the continuous growth and potential of the sport.

2- OH SNAP! Pickling named exclusive pickle of the PPA Tour and title sponsor of the Denver Open, now known as OH SNAP! Denver Open Presented by Vizzy.

3- The City of Aventura in Florida has faced backlash from residents as the community garden at Founders Park South was removed to make space for pickleball courts. The construction project, funded by the American Rescue Plan Act, has sparked protests and legal disputes. While the city claims the new complex will accommodate both the pickleball courts and a new community garden, residents argue that it will disrupt the serene nature of the park and remove valuable green space.

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