Port Stephens Pickleball Club recently welcomed its newest members during a Skills and Drills Equipment Day Demonstration held at the Tomaree High School Multipurpose Centre.
Among the enthusiastic newcomers were Jo Laming, Linda Tighe, Steve Hopkin, Craig Goddard, Linda Blythe, and Donna and Wayne Wilcox.
They seized the opportunity to sharpen their pickleball techniques in a friendly and supportive atmosphere.
The event also saw participation from seasoned club members, including Cheryl Sanderson, John and Jane Eyers, Tony Mayers, and Mary Cunnington, whose expertise and camaraderie enriched the session.
Notably, Mary Cunnington upgraded her paddle during the event, equipping herself for the upcoming tournament season.
Jo Laming, a rookie player, also purchased a new paddle as she prepared for her debut competition: the second annual Spirit of Pickleball Challenge, set to take place this weekend at the Menai Indoor Sports Centre.
The tournament honors the memory of Michelle Gibson, a key figure in introducing pickleball to Sydney’s Sutherland Shire.
Michelle, along with her family, founded the Sutherland Shire Pickleball Club (SSPBC), which is hosting the event.
As an officially sanctioned event by the Pickleball Australia Association, the competition will adhere to USA Pickleball (USAPA) rules.
Participants will compete for gold, silver, and bronze medals across various divisions. The winners of each division will also receive the Michelle Gibson Memorial Trophy, a lasting tribute to her significant contributions to the SSPBC and the sport of pickleball.
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