Battle of the Paddles Incoming!
Our fourth annual Battle of the Paddles junior pickleball tournament is almost here and the excitement is building! We can't wait to see the next generation of pickleball stars take the court at Gregg Park Civic Center on Saturday, May 16.
Every player gets at least four games in our fun scramble format, with medals awarded to top performers. It's competitive, it's welcoming, and it's a whole lot of fun.
Register now! Deadline: Noon on Friday, May 15
(Register by April 30th to receive a FREE tee-shirt!)
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First Paddle participants practicing their dinks!
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First Paddle Program Director Caitlin Barry assisting First Paddle participants.
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First Paddle Spring Camp Recap
While the golf world had its eyes on The Masters Tournament, we were teeing up another unforgettable week at our First Paddle spring camp! With plenty of “drives” and even more dinks, our courts were buzzing with energy as young players jumped into the action and began building their love for the game.
Just like chasing a green jacket, our players focused on improving each day — gaining not only stronger strokes, but also important life lessons in respect, responsibility, integrity, communication, perseverance, and sportsmanship.
At First Paddle, every child gets their chance to shine— and this was just the opening round.
Community Impact
"My daughter had the best time this week at First Paddle!! She was sad to see the week come to an end but she is excited to keep playing and participate in future events. A big thanks to all who made this week's camp possible!" -First Paddle Parent
"Thank you for serving the youth in our program! You are a blessing to our community!" -The Salvation Army
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This month, we’re excited to highlight one of our incredible local players who embodies the spirit of the game both on and off the court!
HOW IT ALL STARTED
Like many great pickleball stories, Sharon's began with a little encouragement from friends. After being persuaded to try it out, she signed up for a lesson — and in her words, “I took one lesson and was hooked.” By the next week, she had already entered a tournament!
Why she keeps coming back
For her, pickleball is more than just a game. It’s the social environment and camaraderie that make it special. The connections built on the court keep her coming back day after day.
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Pictured from left to right: Abigail Sullivan, Sharon Stone, Lindsey Greene.
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ON THE COURT
Her playing style in three words? Aggressive. Competitive. Locked.
While her intensity is a strength, she admits her biggest challenge is slowing down, resetting, and controlling the pace.
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Signature move
She loves to mix up her serve — and let’s just say, it keeps her opponents guessing.
Competitive or social?
Her answer says it all: “If I’m playing, I’m competitive. If I’m sitting, I’m social with everyone.”
BEYOND THE COURT
Pickleball has made a powerful impact on her life. Not only has it improved her physical health, but it’s also helped reduce stress and expand her circle of friends.
What the community means
When asked what the pickleball community means to her, her answer was simple yet meaningful: real friendship. These aren’t just people she plays pickleball with, they’re people she does life with.
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May 1: *Last for the Summer* First Fridays Pickleball & Pizza @ Virginia Acres Park. Free, open play, no sign-ups, loaner equipment provided, and free Pizza Hut pizza! (weather dependent)
May 9: Second Saturdays Dinks & Donuts @ Harrison Caver Park. Free, open play, no sign-ups, and free donuts! (weather dependent)
June 1-5: First Paddle Novice Summer Camp @ Fermata Club
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up-to-date details.
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Southern Pickleball Academy
Healthy Youth and Communities Through Pickleball
a 501(c)(3) nonprofit
FEIN 92-0510304
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