Golden Age Game: Denver Embraces 50+ Pickleball Revolution!
Living in Denver and being a passionate pickleball player, the National Pickleball League (NPL) announcement was music to my ears. This wasn’t just another sports update; it felt like a personal call to be part of a grand movement.
Why the NPL Resonates with Me
The NPL isn’t just any league; it’s crafted for Champions Division players like myself who’ve dedicated years to the game. The emphasis on players aged 50 and above is a refreshing and much-needed change in sports. I love that they call us older folks champions.
“There was a desperate need for Champions Level players to have team play in a league format. Many of us talked about it and were very excited about that kind of format … It was becoming apparent that for the visibility of Champions Level players, we needed to have an independent production to properly showcase the skills and talents both on and off the court of our players.”
Rick Witsken on the reason for starting a Champions Division league
The Overwhelming Support I Noticed
The immediate backing from top Champions pros was palpable. Knowing that some of the best players in the world were on board made me even more excited about what the NPL has in store.
“The support from fellow top Champions Pros was overwhelming. It felt like we were all coming together, united by our love for the game, to build something monumental.”
Beth Bellamy
Building a Legacy and Community
For me, pickleball has always been about community. The NPL’s vision of rallying entire cities around the sport aligns perfectly with my belief in the transformative power of community.
“With the NPL, cities can come together for the sport. It’s not just about competition; it’s about forging a tight-knit community for us champion pros.”
My Hopes for the Future of NPL
I’m filled with hope and excitement for what the NPL promises. I envision Denver and cities across the nation coming together, celebrating pickleball, and recognizing Champion Pros. The idea of home and away games, bustling venues, and lively crowds is a dream I can’t wait to see realized.
In the world of pickleball, the distinction between Champions players and professional pickleball players is akin to comparing seasoned wine with a fresh brew. Champions players, with their vast experience and strategic gameplay, bring a depth and wisdom to the court that’s been honed over years.
On the other hand, professional pickleball players, often younger and more agile, dazzle with their speed, reflexes, and innovative shots. If we were to imagine a hypothetical match between the two, it would be a riveting display of finesse versus flair. While the pros might have the edge in terms of athleticism, the Champions would counter with strategy and anticipation. Predicting a score is challenging, but one could venture into a close contest, perhaps 11-9 in favor of the professionals. However, the real winner would be the audience, treated to a masterclass of pickleball prowess. We measured the average serve speed of professional players and they weren’t that much faster than the average speed of the champion players.
“I can vividly imagine cities rallying behind their teams. The thought of entering packed venues, with the air filled with music and cheers, gives me goosebumps.”
The NPL’s Ties with the Naples Pickleball Center
One of the most exciting aspects of the NPL for me is its association with the Naples Pickleball Center. Known as the pickleball capital of the world, having the support of such a renowned center adds immense credibility to the league.
“The fact that the Naples Pickleball Center, the very heart of the pickleball world, is on board with the NPL speaks volumes. It’s not just about the sport; it’s about recognizing and celebrating the legacy of the champions who paved the way.”
A League with a Vision
The NPL isn’t just about competition; it’s about building a legacy. Bob Strowman’s passion for the game and his vision for the league resonated with me deeply. His emphasis on creating a team that fosters chemistry, community, and love for the game is precisely what the sport needs.
“Bob’s vision of building a legacy, recognizing the old stars that built the game, and rallying cities around pickleball is truly inspiring. It’s not just about winning championships; it’s about creating a lasting impact.”
The Expansion and Future of the NPL
The future looks bright for the NPL. With plans for expansion, home and away games, and the idea of rallying cities around teams, the league promises to bring a fresh wave of excitement to the sport.
“I dream of a day when cities across the nation have their own NPL teams, with packed stadiums and fans cheering their hearts out. The NPL is set to change the landscape of pickleball, and I’m here for it.”
Frequently Asked Questions
- What sets the NPL apart from other leagues? The NPL is tailor-made for Champions Division players, focusing on those aged 50 and above. It aims to showcase their skills and talents, both on and off the court.
- Why is the Naples Pickleball Center’s support significant? The Naples Pickleball Center is known as the pickleball capital of the world. Their support adds immense credibility and recognition to the league.
- What is the vision behind the NPL? The NPL aims to create a community for champion pros, recognize the legacy of players who started the game, and rally cities across the nation around pickleball.
This concludes my take on the National Pickleball League, its vision, and its potential impact on the pickleball community. As a Denver resident and pickleball enthusiast, I’m eagerly looking forward to the league’s journey and the new heights it promises to take the sport to.
By day, I work as an event coordinator, planning everything from corporate retreats to local festivals. It's a job that keeps me on my toes and allows me to flex my creative muscles. But once the workday is over, you'll most likely find me on the pickleball court.
I've been playing in local and regional tournaments for a few years now, and while I'm not going pro anytime soon, I've held my own in some pretty competitive matches. I also love traveling to watch professional pickleball games; there's something electrifying about seeing the best in the world go head-to-head.
What I cherish most about pickleball, though, is the social aspect. I've met some of my closest friends through this sport, and our post-game hangouts are just as important to me as the games themselves.
I like to think I bring a down-to-earth vibe to everything I do. I love a good laugh, intelligent conversation, and, of course, a spirited game of pickleball. So if you're up for a match or just want to chat about the latest pro tournament, hit me up. I'm always game!
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