A team of six pickleball enthusiasts from Creston recently had the chance to compete internationally.
From Nov. 4 to 10, the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) World Championships took place in Dallas, Texas with over 3,200 players.
The Creston players range in age from 18 to 57 and love the inclusivity of the sport.
“If you compare it to tennis, you've got to have some technique, some skill,” said Lanaya Houlden, who has travelled to play and teach pickleball across Canada. “With pickleball, you really don't have to have as much athletic ability.
Pickleball calls for light paddles and low-bouncing plastic balls and can typically be played at a slow, comfortable, which is accessible to most. It can be an easy transition from other sports like squash or badminton.
“Anyone can play pickleball and anyone will have fun doing it,” said Levi Huber, a recent graduate from Kootenay River Secondary School. “The sport is rather simple when first learning but once you advance it becomes a much harder game.”
Levi has played for the last three years, along with his dad Randy Huber.
“A friend suggested I try pickleball as a great way to meet people in a new place, and I quickly discovered how much I enjoy it,” said Randy, who moved to Creston from northern Alberta.
Not only is it a social sport, pickleball is also an excellent form of exercise.
“The fact that you can play it into your later years, unlike many other sports, helps people stay active and engaged,” he said.
Before competing in Dallas, the Hubers both qualified at the Idaho State Championship competition at Coeur d’Alene.
“It was an incredible experience, especially being able to compete on the same courts as professional players,” said Randy.
While some did better than others at the PPA World Championships, the shared sentiment was an eagerness to return and try again.
“There were so many great players,” said Jairus Stonehouse, another Creston player. “We placed sixth in our age and skill level category. I'm happy with the result, but I know I can do better next year.”
Micah Shurgelo also expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to compete in Dallas.
“Although I was eliminated from both of the brackets I played in, quite quickly, I learned so much from the games I participated in,” he said. “The high level of play this tournament had, was very challenging, but also motivating to improve for the future.”
Another echoed feeling through the group, is the friendly, welcoming atmosphere of the Creston club.
“There is so much encouragement from all the players,” said Shurgelo. “If anyone wins a tournament, it truly is a team effort and a success for the whole club. All the players are eager to help everyone improve and play their best game.”
The one thing missing is an indoor facility to be able to play and train year round.
“Our competitive pickleball club is growing rapidly, with many dedicated young players, but all the other top competitors train indoors throughout the year,” said Randy. “Having an indoor facility here would be a huge benefit to our local players and help us compete at a higher level.”
Any newcomers to the sport are encouraged to join the club next spring. Check out the Creston Valley Pickleball Players Facebook group or contact coachkerri96@gmail.com for more information.
