Pickleball Pro “CHRIS HAWORTH”

Join the court with the dynamic duo, Annie and Rebecca, as they serve up the hottest podcast in the pickleball scene. In this week's electrifying episode, they've got a real ace up their sleeves – none other than pickleball pro extraordinaire, Chris Haworth! 🏓

Get ready for a volley of laughter, insights, and intense pickleball passion as Chris spills the brine on his incredible journey through PPA and APP tournaments. Hold on to your paddles, because this isn't just any player – Chris went head-to-head with the #1 men's pickleball powerhouse, Ben Johns, and emerged victorious! 🏆

But that's not all, folks! Dive into the dill with exclusive behind-the-scenes stories, strategy secrets, and the thrill of the game. Discover how Chris Haworth, proudly sponsored by Gearbox, brings his A-game to every match.

Get in touch with Chris

Follow Chris on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/chrishaworth.pb/

Business Inquiries for Chris click here

See APP tour schedule click here

See PPA tour schedule click here

Today’s “Word of the Day”

"double hand-backhand"

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

Pama Christmas Cocktail

"Pickleball CHIX" isn't just a podcast; it's a court-side celebration where laughter meets lightning-fast rallies. So, whether you're a seasoned pickleball pro or a curious newcomer, this is your ticket to the ultimate pickleball party! 🎉 Don't miss out on the pickle-packed action – tune in to "Pickled Power Play" and let the games begin! 🥒🎧 #PickleballCHIX #PickledPowerPlay #GearboxGlory

You can find more information on the Pickleball CHIX blog.

Podcast Schedule

We will drop new episodes every other week. Watch for our short podcasts for motivation, lifestyle and other topics on our mind!

Laughter is the best medicine, and pickleball is the best sport.

Have Ideas for our Show?

If you have show ideas, or topics you'd like to hear more about, or perhaps be a guest on our show, please email us at dink@pickleballCHIX.com

Contact us to host events, getaways, staycations, social lessons, tournaments, teambuilding and more! We love pickleball and the fun is contagious!

the Pickleball CHIX contact info

Annie + Rebecca

email:

dink@pickleballCHIX.com

text: 612-367-6268

Instagram

FaceBook

YouTube

TikTok

PODCAST on YouTube,

Twitch, FaceBook Live, iHEART, Amazon, iTunes, you name it, you’ll find us.

Thanks for subscribing, we hope you enjoyed the show!

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Pickleball Paradise at Lucky Shots Pickleball Club in Minneapolis

Bring me the next shiny new thing. The pickleball CHIX are obsessed with America's fastest growing sports pickable. Get ready for on and off the court hot topics, lots of last cocktails and champagne with your hosts, Annie and Rebecca.

Welcome, Pickleball enthusiasts, to another exciting episode of The Pickleball CHIX podcast!

In this episode, we dive into the thrilling experience we had coaching Lori & Julia as a part of the world of the myTalk 107 Project Down and Dirty fundraiser pickleball event held at Lucky's Pickleball Club in Minneapolis. They raiser over $116,526.00 for 4 charities.

YES Lori & Julia won the championship - so exciting.

We tour the fabulous pickleball club and speak with Anna, the General Manager. , Son and Daughter - Will & Ruby -Will is a Professional Pickleball Coach and Ruby is a high level player. Join the fun - with the CHIX

Segment 1: Championship Win Celebration

Join us as we share the electrifying news: YES, Lori & Julia emerged victorious, clinching the championship at the fundraiser pickleball event! The excitement is palpable, and we can't wait to spill all the details.

Segment 2: Exclusive Club Tour

Get ready for an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the fabulous pickleball club at Lucky's.
We sit down with Anna, the club manager, to discuss the club's history, amenities, and what makes it a standout destination for pickleball enthusiasts.
Special guests include Son and Daughter - Will & Ruby. Will is a Professional Pickleball Coach, and Ruby is a high-level player. Discover their insights into the sport, their journey, and what sets pickleball apart.

Segment 3: Interview with Will & Ruby

Dive deep into the world of pickleball coaching with Will as he shares his experiences, tips for aspiring players, and the joy of being part of the growing pickleball community.
Ruby joins the conversation to discuss her journey as a high-level pickleball player, the challenges she's faced, and the moments that make the game truly special.

Today’s “Word of the Day”

Lucky's

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

Vampire Kiss (spooky good) We know Halloween is over, but who doesn't love dry ice and a fun drink?

Steps:

Rim your glass with special mix with corn syrup to make a bloody rim
Shake ingredients
Pour over dry ice

Ingredients:

2 oz Gray Duck vodka (Minnesota local)
2 oz Pink Cranberry Juice
2 oz Black Cherry Juice
1 oz Grenadine
splash of Lime Juice

Get to Know Lucky Shots Pickleball Club

Welcome to Lucky Shots Pickleball Club, the beating heart of pickleball excitement in Minneapolis! Nestled in the vibrant cityscape, Lucky Shots is not just a club; it's a haven for pickleball enthusiasts seeking the perfect blend of competition, camaraderie, and pure fun.

Picture this: as you step onto the premises, you're greeted by state-of-the-art pickleball courts that boast a perfect blend of sleek design and functionality. The unmistakable pop of pickleballs meeting paddles reverberates through the air, creating an atmosphere that's as dynamic as the game itself.

But Lucky Shots is more than just a collection of courts – it's a community. Here, players of all skill levels come together to share their love for the sport. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just picking up a paddle for the first time, Lucky's is the place where everyone is welcome.

Managed with passion and precision, Lucky Shots Pickleball Club is not just about the game but the experience. The club offers more than just a place to play; it's a social hub where friendships are forged over intense rallies and post-game celebrations.

And if you think the action stops at the courts, think again. Lucky Shots hosts a variety of events, tournaments, and social gatherings that add an extra layer of excitement to the pickleball calendar. From friendly round-robin tournaments to skill-building clinics, there's always something happening at Lucky Shots.

But what truly sets Lucky Shots apart is its commitment to fostering the next generation of pickleball talent. With expert coaching and a supportive environment, Lucky Shots is home to rising stars who are making waves in the pickleball community.

So, whether you're a seasoned player looking for a new challenge or a newcomer eager to join the pickleball craze, Lucky Shots Pickleball Club in Minneapolis is the place to be. Come for the courts, stay for the community, and leave with a newfound love for the game. Lucky Shots – where every shot is a chance for something extraordinary.

Coach Will's Pickleball Tip

Keep them at the back line.

Ruby's dream double's partner

Taylor Swift.

We hope you like these tips, we really want people to be able to experience the fun and have fun, and that we can say that we kind of helped someone along the way with their pickleball game, and that they just look at life a little bit differently.

You can find more information on the Pickleball CHIX blog.

Upcoming podcasts will include:

Podcast Schedule

We will drop new episodes every other week. Watch for our short podcasts for motivation, lifestyle and other topics on our mind!

Laughter is the best medicine, and pickleball is the best sport.

Have Ideas for our Show?

If you have show ideas, or topics you'd like to hear more about, or perhaps be a guest on our show, please email us at dink@pickleballCHIX.com

Contact us to host events, getaways, staycations, social lessons, tournaments, teambuilding and more! We love pickleball and the fun is contagious!

the Pickleball CHIX contact info

Annie + Rebecca

email: dink@pickleballCHIX.com

text: 612-367-6268

Instagram

FaceBook

YouTube

TikTok

PODCAST on YouTube,

Twitch, FaceBook Live, iHEART, Amazon, iTunes, you name it, you’ll find us.

Thanks for subscribing, we hope you enjoyed the show!

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"Pickleball Recovery“ 3 Tools You Want to Use Dr. Cynthia Boccara MLP Chiropractor

This episode the Pickleball CHIX talk with Dr. Cynthia Boccara, MLP Chiropractor, known as the Pickleball DOC! Dr. C. has just come off the MLP at Atlanta where she treats many pickleball Pro's.

We explore common injuries, and 3 fabulous tools to use to prevent injuries on the pickleball court, recovery more quickly, and play pickleball as often as you want, or at least until you are 90 years old!

Stay tuned to the end - and be sure to sign up for the special offer - see show notes below.

Today’s “Word of the Day”

MLP (Major League Pickleball)

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

The Pickleball Empress with Empress 1908 Indigo Gin This is a great cocktail, Ron from Harbor Wine and Spirits in Mound, Minnesota, you did it again!

2 oz Empress 1908 Indigo Gin
Rim with something fabulous (we like pink)
Add Fevertree grapefruit soda
Top with fresh grapefruit

See the tutorial online on our YouTube Channel

3 Tools for everyone's pickleball bag

Scrape Tool (we are giving one away from Dr. C.) with Rock Sauce
Tape
Dynamic Cupping

Dr Cynthia Contact Information and Free Offer

Instagram @drc_thepickleballdoc

thepickleballdoc.net.

Get the free offer here: https://thepickleballdoc.net/guide-optin-form/

You can find more information on the Pickleball CHIX blog.

Podcast Schedule

We will drop new episodes every other week. Watch for our short podcasts for motivation, lifestyle and other topics on our mind!

Laughter is the best medicine, and pickleball is the best sport.

Have Ideas for our Show?

If you have show ideas, or topics you'd like to hear more about, or perhaps be a guest on our show, please email us at dink@pickleballCHIX.com

Contact us to host events, getaways, staycations, social lessons, tournaments, teambuilding and more! We love pickleball and the fun is contagious!

the Pickleball CHIX contact info

Annie + Rebecca

email:

dink@pickleballCHIX.com

text: 612-367-6268

Instagram

FaceBook

YouTube

TikTok

PODCAST on YouTube

Apple podcasts, iHEART, Amazon, Spotify, you name it, you’ll find us.

Thanks for subscribing, we hope you enjoyed the show!

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Pickleball PRO, Connector, Game Changer: The Ryan Sherry Pickleball Odyssey

In this podcast episode, the Pickleball CHIX talk with the "man", the "legend", Ryan Sherry!

Ryan not only plays as a pickleball PRO, but has impacted pickleball in so many fun ways. His skills on the pickleball court are only rivaled to his charisma and business success off the court.

Ryan cofounded Legacy Pro Sports with his college buddy, former NFL Brandon Siler. Legacy Pro Sports assist former NFL and MLB players in achieving a sustainable lifestyle by taking advantage of the benefits available to them.

Watch this episode where we talk with Ryan about his pickleball connections to some of our pickleball favorites, Julio and Pickleball McNasty! We also chat about pickleball greats, Kyle Yates, Ben Johns, Parris Todd and more!

We talk about how pickleball first made it to ESPN - thank you RYAN!

Have you heard of PBX Pickleball? Ryan has an upcoming event with this great group! PBX is a pickleball league that provides opportunities to play against former professional athletes.

Today’s “Word of the Day”

PRO (in honor of our guest)

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

SHERRY BERRY for SHERBEAR!

You can find more information on the Pickleball CHIX blog.

Upcoming podcasts will include:

Podcast Schedule

We will drop new episodes every other week. Watch for our short podcasts for motivation, lifestyle and other topics on our mind!

Laughter is the best medicine, and pickleball is the best sport.

Have Ideas for our Show?

If you have show ideas, or topics you'd like to hear more about, or perhaps be a guest on our show, please email us at dink@pickleballCHIX.com

Contact us to host events, getaways, staycations, social lessons, tournaments, teambuilding and more! We love pickleball and the fun is contagious!

the Pickleball CHIX contact info

Annie + Rebecca

email:

dink@pickleballCHIX.com

text: 612-367-6268

Instagram

FaceBook

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Pickleball GOLD Pickleball GOLD: Champion Conversations with Gabe Joseph

Pickleball PRO

Bring me the next shiny new thing. The pickleball CHIX are obsessed with America's fastest growing sports pickable. Get ready for on and off the court hot topics, lots of last cocktails and champagne with your hosts, Annie and Rebecca.

In this episode where the Pickleball CHIX congratulate and chat with the pickleball player on tour with SWAG - Gabe Joseph who took GOLD in Men's Singles at the PPA Takeya Showcase Presented by Best Day Brewing.

The road to pickleball GOLD was paved with playing top players. Gabe played Pablo Tellez in the first round, moved on to playing with Connor Garnett, and then Yates Johnson in the quarter finals, and to Tyson McGuffin in semi-finals and then Championship Sunday where he defeated Federic Staksrud in two games: 11 to 6 and 12 to 10.

Gabe is sponsored by ACE Pickleball more about how Gabe got his start with pickleball, what it is like to play professionally and meet the real VIP - KOBE - the cutie frenchie - the man!

Today’s “Word of the Day”

"gold"

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

"Basil Drop Restorative Cocktail"

Ingredients:

Vodka - Prairie Organic
Basil leaf (2)
Lemonade (1 oz)
Lime Juice (1 oz)
Simple Syrup (1 oz)

Thanks Ron - you knocked it out of the park again.

We talk about good energy, and when you are a good person, things fall into place! Go Gabe. Faced with adversity with his sponsor one year ago, he landed another sponsor with ACE, he has a lot of respect for WILL the owner. From this lesson, Gabe says, "if it don't fit, don't force it".

The ACE Diamond - Gabe's paddle sold out, and ACE is bringing out a new paddle, the CLUB.

We also speak about Gabe's paddle and how he customized it, which is a part of his secret sauce. Fun Fact - Gabe's first job was Sports Chalet and then moved to a tennis shop, and he is all about customization. When he was on the KITCHEN they wanted Gabe to give all the details.

Now let's talk about...

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Pickleball GAME CHANGER!!

Benefits of Red/Infrared Light with Dr. Zulia Frost with FLEXBEAM

OVERVIEW

Pickleball players get curious about red light therapy and how it can help you play with more energy and recover faster. You will hear about the exact routine that will help support optimal joint and tendon function, muscle recovery, increase blood flow and circulation, decreases inflammation, and supports the body's natural healing processes.

Our featured product for red light is @theflexbeam This device is portable and powerful. We bring it with us to the pickleball court, or when we travel for pickleball tournaments or on vacation.

In this episode, we interview Dr. Zulia Frost. She is the co-founder and medical doctor and clinical director at Recharge Health, creators of a targeted red-light device, our favorite - the FlexBeam. Dr. Zulia is known as a "healer" and is renowned worldwide for pioneering integrative light and energy therapy.

Find FLEXBEAM on Instagram here.

Find FLEXBEAM on FaceBook here.

Don't forget to enter for the FLEXBEAM GIVEAWAY - must enter by 8-2-23 by 3 pm CST. See less

Purchase FLEXBEAM here. enter code: pickleballCHIX for $75 off (offer expires 8/31/23)

Sponsored by Harbor Wine and Spirits in Mound, Minnesota.

Today’s “Word of the Day”

"Light"

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

Red Light Therapy - "Aperol Spritz"

Ingredients Aperol and Freixenet Prosecco

We hope you like these tips, we really want people to be able to experience the fun and have fun, and we can say that we kind of helped someone along the way with their pickleball game, and that they just look at life a little bit differently.

You can find more information on the

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Santa Monica Pickleball Center with LA Tennis Pros Jon Neeter and Julio Rivera

In this pickleball podcast episode the pickleball CHIX tour the hottest pickleball club in LA, the Santa Monica Pickleball Center with with LA Tennis Pros Jon Neeter and Julio Rivera. The duo invested over $400,000 in America's fastest growing sport. Their Open House in the Spring of 2023 was a big hit with more than 400 people attending.

The new facility provides four new lighted outdoor pickleball courts and 2,000 square feet of retail space which offers the largest inventory of pickleball equipment in all of Los Angeles.

Because Pickleball is the fastest growing sport, celebrity participation is also on the rise. Enthusiasts include Leonardo DiCaprio, Will Ferrell, Stephen Colbert, Kelly Roland to name a few. Jamie Foxx produces his own line of pickleball paddles that is now sold at The Santa Monica Pickleball Center.

The Santa Monica Tennis Center has also had dozens of celebrity visitors including Britney Spears, Matt Damon, Owen Wilson, Michael Keaton, Dustin Hoffman, Christian Bale, and Blake Griffin and the owners have given private lessons to celebrities like Kate Hudson, Hilary Swank, Lance Armstrong, and several others.

We also talk about Major League Pickleball and the National Pickleball League. It's a fun show, please join us. Meet the National Pickleball Team.

Today’s “Word of the Day”

"paddle" in honor of our guests at Santa Monica Pickleball Center's great wall of pickleball paddles

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

Our Mixologist, Ron from Harbor Wines and Spirits in Mound, Minnesota crafted a the "Spicey Viking Pickle", and Rebecca couldn't help but add to the name, the "Spicey Viking Pickle Paddle"

Ingredients

VIKRE Distillery Ovrevann Aquavit Spirits infused with caraway and cardamom
Spooky Dill Bloody Mary Mix (check out all of their products - yum) See more recipes here.
Sable & Rosenfeld Garlic & Dill Tipsy Cocktail Stirrers
Rokz Bloody Mary Salt
Dill

Let's get started with the tour of the hottest pickleball club in LA!

Located off Wilshire and 25th...

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Pickleball Pilot - Dean Matt breaking world records

Our guest today was featured on local and national news, such as FOX nationally and locally. The Pickleball CHIX talk with the Pickleball PILOT - Dean Matt - known as Muchodeanareo about his world record attempt called the 48 x 48 x 48 Challenge. You'll love this pickleball podcast episode where pickleball pilot, Dean Matt set out to break a record by visiting 48 states in 48 days and play 48 games of pickleball.

You'll love his interesting story - the fabulous people he met along the way - and more!!

Today’s “Word of the Day”

"flight"

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

48 State Bootlegger (in honor of our guest who flew into Minnesota)

Ingredients:

Summer Lakes Bootlegger cocktail mix.

Two ounces. You're gonna want to

Prairie Organic Gin. Here we made in Princeton, Minnesota

Thank you to our Sponsors Harbor Wine and Spirits and to our Mixologist, RON!

Let's get to know Dean

He started flying since high school, flying has always been a passion and he has had a plane for the last 25 years and recently upgraded to a six passenger plane, it's turbocharged and it will be able to go up to 27,000 feet. So while I have been out west, over the mountains in my other plane, this plane is just much more easier to do it with. So I moved down. My wife and I moved down from the Chicago area about two years ago to Sarasota Florida here. And we moved into a golfing community. We thought we'd be golfing, doing a lot of golfing. We have a little golf cart, but all we use our golf cart for is to go to the pickleball courts.

How did you come up with this idea?

So we started playing pickleball I met a guy who I met a lot of people obviously playing pickleball. And then the guy who was on I said, Hey, Shannon, I always want to go around the country. Now Shannon's a he's a real pilots. He's he manages aircraft for a living and he plays jets and all that stuff. Me I'm just a single engine guy with a couple 1000 hours instrument rated. And so we started planning and he says yeah, I'm going to clear the decks for May. We started this about six months ago. And I did all the logistics I'm retired. So I've been calling people all across the United States,...

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Pickleball's BRAINSDOC pickleball pro, coach and advocate

The CHIX have been playing pickleball at Mega Pickle and Pong in Chanhassen, Minnesota and outdoors. Follow the CHIX on Instagram to see where the latest outdoor court can be found.

In this episode where the Pickleball CHIX talk with Pickleball's BRAINSDOC pickleball pro, coach and advocate Mircea Morariu. We talk Major League Pickleball, PPA, APP and National Pickleball League and more. It's a great episode.

Today’s “Word of the Day”

"Coach"

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

Summertime Fun Peach Drink.

Made with Peach Crown Royal, Risata Prosecco, peach mango juice, mint leaf and peaches. YUM! A special thank you to Ron, our Mixologist from Harbor Wine and Spirits in Mound Minnesota. He came up with this one. It is the summertime fun peach drink. And it is because of our guest today the BLQK coach. So what's in it, you ask? Well, the reason that he came up with the drink is because BLQK stands for Building Legacies for our Queens and Kings.

Well that brought him to the Peach Crown Royal and then we also add some Risata Prosecco. Okay, after that, you add some peach mango juice. Wow. And then after that, we are going to add some mint leaf and some peaches. WOW.

Okay, pickleball lovers, today we have a very interesting guest, a man that is coming to us from tennis juniors, to playing tennis at Brown, and later finding squash while attending medical school. Yeah, that's right. And then he found his way to the pickleball court. Ranked #1 Senior APP Pro Player of the Year in 2021. And, happens to be a coach for one of our favorite Major League pickleball team California BLQK Bears. And, Coach to JW Johnson and Jorja Johnson.

We talk about Major League Pickleball and the excitement of the final event in Season 1. We talk Dylan Frazier, Pablo Tellez,

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PPA bubly Pickleball Tournament, MLP Draft and Interviews with Pickleball Pro's & Owner's

What is Pickleball McNasty - is it a pickleball move on the court? It is a movement, it is a brand, this podcast features Matt Manasee, the one and only Pickleball McNasty - also known as the Pickleball Coach to the Stars!!

How did Pickleball McNasty get his start with pickleball, why does he love pickleball, who has he trained, who has he played with, which brands does he work with and what does he think the future of pickleball holds?

You'll get these answers, maybe even a tip or two, and a lot of fun.

Pickleball McNasty plays pickleball professionally, teaches every level of pickleball and is a pickleball Ambassador, working with brands such as Municipal, E11Vodka, @crush.yard, and is on team @joolapickleball and @tastecando and has such an interesting involvement with pickleball.

Too many highlights to mention, let's go, this is a great episode. Let's have some fun - on and off the pickleball court! Cheers!

Today’s “Word of the Day”

PICKLE

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

THE PICK11ER in honor of E11even Vodka -

Let's get started...

E11even Vodka is the official pickleball or official pickleball the official drink of pickleball official vodka pickleball rather. But yeah, I got connected with them about a year ago and they came to me and they wanted to do a pickleball event for the Florida Breast Cancer Foundation because they they make a special pink bottleneck for breast cancer month or in October. So we did an event and we raised $60,000 for the Florida Breast Cancer Foundation. I went to Miami and we hosted the event at the Skip Simpkins household, we brought in eight pickleball pros, a bunch of my sponsors. And it turned out to be a great event for auction. people came and after that, they decided they wanted to continue working with me. And we came out with this drink and the PR box that I'm sure you've seen online. We just did another little event in Miami in the Miami design district called Pickleball Jam. And we have we have a lot more coming. So yeah, it's it's been a cool little partnership. And that's been fun.

Pickleball McNasty - coaches at every single level, and is on the cultural side of pickleball with the celebrities, which puts him in a position to to be an authority in the sport of pickleball.

What does Pickleball McNasty want to do with the game of pickleball?

Matt says, he wants to continue being a part of every aspect. He wants to grow the game of pickleball from the amateur level because he thinks that is very important by creating more amateur events and branded events, corporate clinics, and is excited to see what opportunities are out there and to continue putting smiles on people's faces.

How did Matt get his name, Pickleball McNasty?

Last name is Manasse, which obviously is not that far off for McNasty. And I had a coach in high school Christian Coulis, a tennis coach who would call me McNasty. He made me run sprints around. It kind of stunk! And when I was in college coaching, I would go to different towns across the country and I would, I was bored in the morning on the way to the gym, and I'd be like, alright, this is the Lubbock McNasty, I kind of was trying to be like Mark Wahlberg gym early mornings. And when I got into pickleball the first draw that I was able to sign up for I saw there were nicknames, you know, the, the flying unicorn and Johnny pickleball. And all these nicknames on their draw, which was so different than tennis where you had to just use your name, and I was like, that's kind of fun and, and cool. And I was like, here's a chance to be pickleball McNasty.

I didn't think anything of it. I didn't think it would turn into any type of brand, but and I guess, I guess maybe since I'm nice, it kind of works.

How did Pickleball McNasty become the Pickleball Coach to the Stars? Read this article for more info.

Many Pickleball Projects - Crush Yard - Chief Ambassador

Crush Yard is a pickleball restaurant and club. So we're starting in Charleston in about two months. In June, we'll open our first location in Mountain Pleasant. It is a pickleball restaurant Club. We're repurposing existing big box stores and turning them into these restaurants. There's a great executive team. It's gonna be really good food really good beer. There's 56 taps I believe, and mixed drinks. Enjoy 42 flat screen TVs, and will actually be the largest restaurant in Charleston.

How did Matt meet Mark Wahlberg?

Matt says, "Very briefly, he would have remembered a couple years ago when I was coaching college tennis. All Americans was held here in California at the Riviera Country Club and Pacific Palisades. So when I was driving in with my Oklahoma State. I almost ran him over actually with the minivan who has an adult car slowed down. And then I noticed, my team noticed it was him he got out of the car, we took pictures, and I knew he was a member at the riv. When I started working at the RIV, obviously I reached out to municipal. There was that connection. I've always liked Wahlberg and been a fan of his and I love the clothes as well and the fit and feel of it. It kind of matched my vibe and after a while municipal started sending me some stuff. You know, they saw my value in the in the pickleball world. And I actually bumped into Mark while I was wearing a municipal hoodie at the RIV and we reconnected he took a video put it on his Instagram, you know, saying I ran into the pickleball King and and you know, a year or so later now. I you know I signed with him officially to be a brand partner about a month ago. So it's been a good partnership. They, you know, donated 50 More hoodies to be in that PR box with E11even Vodka. They've done a lot of events with me as well. So yeah, I'm a Wahlberg fan. I'm a municipal fan, and it's been a good run so far."

Fun Celebrity Pickleball Story (one he can tell our listeners) Here's what Matt has to say:

My number one story that I'm allowed to tell. I don't know. You know, it's, it's a surreal feeling. Because as cool as you want to be around some of these, you know, celebrities, obviously, they're normal people, you definitely become friends with these people at the end of the day, and, but at the same time, you were fans of them way before and sometimes you still are, and he's still respect what they've done and who they are. So, I mean, the coolest thing for me is, is, you know, seeing Matthew Perry, hearing his stories of getting through addiction coming out on the other side, right now falling in love with pickleball. And having that be his his new addiction, and developing a real friendship there with him. You know, I spent the Super Bowl with him this year at his place, which was really cool. We had a small group and to me that, you know, I grew up watching friends, and you would never think that you're gonna become friends with one of the friends and but at the end of the day, he's a great guy a nice guy, and just a normal a normal dude. You know, like he likes to, he likes to have fun and crack a joke and loves to play pickleball.

Who does Pickleball McNasty want to play double pickleball with?

Madeline Klein from the Outer Banks

Saturdays or Sundays?

Sundays

Happy Hour or Brunch?

Brunch

You can find more information on the Pickleball CHIX blog.

Upcoming podcasts will include:

Podcast Schedule

We will drop new episodes every other week. Watch for our short podcasts for motivation, lifestyle and other topics on our mind!

Laughter is the best medicine, and pickleball is the best sport.

Have Ideas for our Show?

If you have show ideas, or topics you'd like to hear more about, or perhaps be a guest on our show, please email us at dink@pickleballCHIX.com

Contact us to host events, getaways, staycations, social lessons, tournaments, teambuilding and more! We love pickleball and the fun is contagious!

the Pickleball CHIX contact info

Annie + Rebecca

email:

dink@pickleballCHIX.com

text: 612-367-6268

Instagram

FaceBook

YouTube

TikTok

PODCAST on YouTube,

Twitch, FaceBook Live, iHEART, Amazon, iTunes, you name it, you’ll find us.

Thanks for subscribing, we hope you enjoyed the show!

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pickleball warm-up, prevention and recovery Dr. Brody with Hopkins Health & Wellness

Rebecca is on location today at Hopkins Health and Wellness Center with our good friend Dr. Brody, chiropractor and co-owner of the Hopkins Health and Wellness Center in Hopkins, Minnesota, and Annie is still in Marco Island, Florida. Rebecca has worked with Hopkins Health and Wellness for about 15 years, including more recently as she worked to recovery from a pickleball injury with her knee.

Today’s “Word of the Day”

Adjustment

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

Flaming Dr. Pepper brings some excitement to the party with fire. The combination of rum, amaretto, and beer mimics the taste of Dr. Pepper.

Recipe

3/4 ounce amaretto liqueur1/4 ounce 151-proof rum4 ounces beer
Gather ingredients
Fill a shot glass 3/4 full with amaretto.
Slowly float the overproof rum on top to fill the shot glass by pouring it over the back of a bar spoon.
Blow out the flame, drop the shot glass into the beer, and drink in one gulp.

Dr. Brody is from Boulder, Colorado, and studied at University of Colorado where he met is wife, who is from Eden Prairie. Dr. Brody went to grad school at Northwestern in Bloomington, MN and started to practice in Aspen, and then had a one year stint in Hollywood before returning to Minnesota.

Top 2 Pickleball Injuries Dr. Brody sees:

inflammation of the elbow
shoulder

Rebecca shares that two of her friends recently had fallen. Annie speaks about the importance of wearing pickleball shoes, and especially when playing in gymnasiums. Dr. Brody suggests that after a fall, get evaluated, get checked out medically to ensure there isn't something going on that may cause issues down the road.

CHIX talk about warm-ups and cool-downs and the fact that so many people playing pickleball do not seem to warm-up and for sure very few cool-down. In fact, Rebecca and Annie have a warm-up routine that when playing, their opponents are like "wow, this is intimidating" , and the CHIX joke that they hadn't even shared their pickleball game faces yet!

Dr. Brody talks about the benefits of warming up and cooling down. He agrees that warming up in the morning several hours prior to your game has benefits, but that far too many people are not cooling down which can really cause issues.

PRP Injection - a regenerative therapy, and stands for is platelet rich plasma. Dr. Brody states that PRP has worked really well to reduce inflammation. There may be a little soreness after the procedure, and you can expect a maximum benefit of approximately 12 weeks.

Let's talk about the stars!!

Dr. Brody was recruited to go work for International Sports Performance Center, who contracts out to different celebrities and professional athletes. He had experience managing a few of their their big people, I guess. Disney was making the Force Awakens was the name of Star Wars film.

One of the main actors broke their leg during filming - who was it?

Harrison Ford. Dr. Brody and his team, we flew out to London where they were filming, and basically got put in a meeting with Disney and Lucas Films. And they said, "we need to have Harrison walk as soon as possible. We're losing X amount of dollars every day that they're not filming." . That was my job to make him functional and walking again. So they could finish the film. So that was one of my projects.

What was it like to work with Harrison Ford?

He kind, he's great. We had a lot of fun together. But like the one story that I guess that kind of brings us all the fruition for me was we were trying to do a bunch of rehab, and I needed him to ride a bike. And we were in London, and he didn't want to go on a you know, spin bike or whatever. So he wanted to go ride around the park. And so we get these rental bikes where you put a credit card in and then they pop out yeah thing like you know, around here. And we start riding and I'm just kind of with him and his security guard was trying to keep up with us, but Harrison doesn't care. So he's just like taking off. And then all of a sudden we stop and he sees this pub, which is right across the street and he just ditches his bike and says I think I'm gonna go have a beer. I said, well, we we have to bring these back somewhere. I can't just leave them here and he looks at me says, "That's not my problem. I'm gonna go have a beer."

That was for six weeks or so, we did get the job done - within two weeks he was back at it, but it was constant, I would work with him at 4 am until 11 pm. So the movie was finished and everything came out pretty well. It was an interesting experience!!

So who else in Star Wars did you work with?

Dr. Brody, says, "Basically, you kind of work with the whole cast. So I personally, was with Carrie Fisher. I was with the director. JJ Abrams did that. Daisy Ridley and JB, I'm blanking on his name, but they were kind of the new to Star Wars characters. And they had a couple things. So you kind of you kind of get thrown around to everybody. I think I was there for five weeks in total, every day was very, very long. But it was fun. It was a really cool experience. And me and me and Harrison in particular, because we spent so much time together kind of got to be friends."

How did you connect with Jim Carey?

Dr. Brody says, "he was just one of our other clients, or our patient base. So I had some as more preventative stuff, I was working with him, but he was in Los Angeles. And so I would see him every once in awhile kind of avoiding couple other things. He wasn't in a film at the time.

Is he funny?

Dr. Brody says, "He can be, and he can also be very dark. He's very nice to me and everything else. But yeah, he, his moods were very, like, he can be very upbeat, and like a typical, you know, funny thing. And then it would just be this kind of like, downward, like, really like quiet. And so I just, I just kind of adapt to whatever. Yeah, mood he was in."

Any other names we may recognize?

Dr. Brody said, "I worked with Chris Pine, on another film. out of the cape outside of Boston, it was about a film that a ship went down. And he was a Coast Guard crew that went out to save them. And they had to film this in December, because they needed, you know, 12 ft waves. So that was one that was out there during the Nor'easter. So the whole town was just basically deserted, except for the people making the movie because they needed this weather, and then go out and film all this stuff. So that was one that I worked on to a couple locally, just in Los Angeles I was with. And then I had a couple other athletes that I was kind of running around the country with, depending on whether they were playing so it was a busy year, it was good!

If you could play pickleball with anyone, who would it be?

Dr. Pete L'Allier.

Why?

He feels they would jive well, and since Dr. Pete is in Marco, he is probably pretty good now.

Upcoming pickleball CHIX event

pickleball CHIX Spring Soirée - Sipping Pretty is a ladies event where we celebrate YOU with spirited sips where you will enjoy at least 6 games of pickleball at Mega Pickle and Pong in Chanhassen, Minnesota on Saturday, May 13th, 2023.

Relax. Renew. Revitalize. - in the VIP CHIX LOUNGE

All ladies will have access to our exclusive VIP CHIX lounge filled with special warm-up and recovery stations, a little bit of pampering, a few surprises and a lot of fun! (see details below)

We are running two sessions:

Ladies 3.5+ check-in time 8 am

Ladies 3.0 check-in time 2 pm

go to bit.ly/CHIXsoiree

To enter to win door prizes from The Mustard Seed Landscape & Garden, Flexpower, Rolflex, Shaktimats Bodyblade and more!!

VIP CHIX Lounge -

Enjoy wellness sips of fruit infused water, Slate Milk, LMNT hydration, Jigsaw Pickleball cocktail and spirited and mocktail sips, Yobow therapeutic massage guns, bands, Heat Healer Body Belt - Infrared, pemf @red light therapy, Rolflex Muscle Recovery and more.

And, did we say personal touch massage from Hopkins Health and Wellness

DETAILS

LOCATION:

Mega Pickle and Pong Address and Contact Information 2929 Water Tower Place, Chanhassen, MN 55317 Phone: 952.300.8752

You can find more information on the Pickleball CHIX blog.

Upcoming podcasts will include:

Podcast Schedule

We will drop new episodes every other week. Watch for our short podcasts for motivation, lifestyle and other topics on our mind!

Laughter is the best medicine, and pickleball is the best sport.

Have Ideas for our Show?

If you have show ideas, or topics you'd like to hear more about, or perhaps be a guest on our show, please email us at dink@pickleballCHIX.com

Contact us to host events, getaways, staycations, social lessons, tournaments, teambuilding and more! We love pickleball and the fun is contagious!

the Pickleball CHIX contact info

Annie + Rebecca

email:

dink@pickleballCHIX.com

text: 612-367-6268

Instagram

FaceBook

YouTube

TikTok

PODCAST on YouTube,

Twitch, FaceBook Live, iHEART, Amazon, iTunes, you name it, you’ll find us.

Thanks for subscribing, we hope you enjoyed the show!

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CHIX talk pickleball slam and pickleball rules with Courtney Johnson, Director of Major League Pickleball Officiating

Bring me the next shiny new thing. The pickleball CHIX are obsessed with America's fastest growing sports pickleball. Get ready for on and off the court hot topics, lots of last cocktails and champagne with your hosts, Annie and Rebecca.

This is the eleventh episode where the Pickleball CHIX talk pickleball slam, pickleball rules and more with Courtney Johnson, Director of Officiating for Major League Pickleball. When we met Courtney she had just been awarded the Unsung Hero Award for her efforts with Major League Pickleball.

Courtney has also been a USA Pickleball Ambassador since 2017. She has officiated at MLP, PPA, APP, USA Pickleball, the Inaugural Pickleball Slam and various local tournaments and truly enjoys supporting the fastest growing sport in America.

You will hear about Courtney's experiences in officiating pickleball games at Major League Pickleball MLP, Professional Pickleball Association PPA, Association of Pickleball Professionals APP, USA Pickleball, and various local tournaments and truly enjoys supporting the fastest growing sport in America.

pickleball CHIX next event is on May 13th celebrating Mom's where there are two groups: 3.5+ and 3.0. All ladies will play 6 games of pickleball, and enjoy the exclusive pickleball CHIX lounge filled with warm-up, recovery, hydration, health and wellness products and experiences, including massages and more. Sign up on Court Reserve, or for more information click here.

Today’s “Word of the Day”

In honor of our guest, the word of the day is "court"

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

Pink Court. The Pink Court is a beautiful glass of champagne (we prefer Moët Chandon) with raspberries.

We are also celebrating -- It's Courtney's Birthday - happy happy birthday! Courtney celebrated by playing pickleball at Chicken and Pickle with her friends, and later going for dinner with her hubby and daughter.

So how did Courtney get started?

Courtney says "I started playing just like with I feel like everyone in pickleball I started playing back in 2012. But in Texas, we didn't really start having tournaments till maybe like 2017 2018. So I just these tournaments needed referees. So obviously, I was like, Well, what do I need to do? Like, I'm loving help. And so back in 2017, I started officiating, and then I kind of figured out I kind of like this. So I really wanted to become certified and just get that, that highest level of certification with USA pickleball. So in 2018, I became a Certified Referee. So that just means I'm extra nerdy. I, you know, reffing isn't for everyone. But I really feel like I have a good demeanor, I'm able to communicate well communicate well with players. So it's just really been a lovely fit. And I love how helping out the pickleball community."

We also talk about the the Inaugural Pickleball Slam in the beginning of April. What an event!!

The event kicked off with 88 doubles teams across two divisions. Among the notable participants were Rick Barry, Basketball Hall of Famer; Danny Wuerffel, the Heisman Trophy winning quarterback and Univ. of Florida Legend; and Brooks Wiley, Commissioner, Major League Pickleball.

Four amateur players enjoyed the pickleball experience of a lifetime at the Amateur Pickleball Slam Tournament. Roscoe Bellamy and Matt Manasse of Los Angeles, and Daniel Revis and Seth Fine of Davie, FL, won their respective brackets and took home $10,000 grand prize each.

The winners also had the opportunity to face a team of tennis legends. Bellamy and Manasse matched up with tennis legends Andre Agassi and Andy Roddick and emerged victorious by a score of 15-9. Revis and Fine played John McEnroe and Michael Chang, falling to the legends 16-14.

The four legends: John McEnroe, Andre Agassi, Andy Roddick and Michael Chang thrilled a capacity crowd at the inaugural 2023 Pickleball Slam, a first-of-its-kind event showcasing four tennis legends playing the fastest growing sport in America – all for a $1M purse. The event was broadcast live from Hard Rock Live at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, FL on ESPN. The two and a half-hour event saw Agassi and Roddick emerge victorious, taking home bragging rights and the biggest tournament prize in pickleball history.

Cool moment at the Pickleball Slam: During a break in the doubles match, tennis legend Stefanie Graf, who was watching from the stands, was coaxed by McEnroe to play a point against her husband, Agassi. Click Here to watch.

Courtney's favorite legend player? Michael Chang - Courtney liked the way he asked questions about pickleball rules.

What did Courtney think about John McEnroe, and was she concerned he would live up to his reputation? Courtney said her husband reminded her to be prepared for McEnroe! During the event, Courtney said she was mentally prepared, and it really went well!

We talk rules, USA Pickleball is the governing body for pickleball. USA Pickleball gives pickleball players a voice with the rules. If you are a member of USA Pickleball you can subject your ideas for changes, Courtney has sat on the board for rules and said "every single" change is looked at and evaluated. New rules are published in December, and go in effect in January.

Join USA Pickleball Here

Click to view 2023 USA Pickleball Rules

So this rule, in particular, this USA pickleball rule. This one changed from 2022 to 2023. So say, the wrong score was called, you have this in 2023. Say the wrong score was called I serve, you have you had the opportunity to catch the ball and correct the score. Whereas in 2022, you couldn't stop the rally at all, if a wrong score was called. Now in 23, if I serve it, and you catch it, you can say, hey, the wrong score was called, and there's no fault. But if I serve it, and you return it, then you have to play the rally out and then fix the fix the incorrect score call at the end of the rally. So yep, you have up until that that return of serve to fix an incorrect score call without any fault associated with it.

LINE CALLS

The way it's written in the USA pickleball rulebook is that in order to call a ball out, you have to see space between the line and the ball.

Official Ref Outfits

We asked Courtney about the outfits, Major League Pickleball you will see Courtney in an orange top, and black slacks. PPA has their own shirts, with black pants. The pickleball SLAM Courtney was dressed from head to toe in K-SWISS

Who would Courtney like to play pickleball doubles with?

Tyson Apostel. He is He does the MLP Insider PodCast. He was on survivor for like so many seasons. Anyways, he and he was one of the interviewers, when I was on the MLP podcast, and I've met him a couple of times in person. And he's so fashionable. He always looks the best and he has this really good energy.

Get to know more about Courtney:

Starbucks or Chipotle - Chipotle

Saturdays or Sundays - Saturdays

Brunch or Happy Hour -Brunch

You can find more information on the Pickleball CHIX blog.

Upcoming podcasts will include:

Dr. Brody Peterson with Hopkins Health and Wellness

Matt “Pickleball Mcnasty” Manasse (played at pickleball SLAM and won)

Podcast Schedule

We will drop new episodes every other week. Watch for our short podcasts for motivation, lifestyle and other topics on our mind! AND - our special local club highlights!!

Upcoming Highlights Include:

Santa Monica Pickleball Center

Arlington Paddles

CHIX REVIEW

Oliver Thomas Bags (we love them)

Laughter is the best medicine, and pickleball is the best sport.

Have Ideas for our Show?

If you have show ideas, or topics you'd like to hear more about, or perhaps be a guest on our show, please email us at dink@pickleballCHIX.com

Contact us to host events, getaways, staycations, social lessons, tournaments, teambuilding and more! We love pickleball and the fun is contagious!

the Pickleball CHIX contact info

Annie + Rebecca

email: dink@pickleballCHIX.com

text: 612-367-6268

Instagram

FaceBook

YouTube

TikTok

PODCAST on YouTube

Find us on Apple Podcast (or any platform you love)

Thanks for subscribing, we hope you enjoyed the show!

Mentioned in this episode:

The pickleball CHIX Intro

The pickleball CHIX talk about the hottest topics in pickleball, featuring fun convo, word of the day, drink of the day, fabulous pickleball guests and a lot of fun. Pickleball is the best sport, and laughter is the best medicine - Thanks for following us on Instagram, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.

END Thanks for following

Thank you for following the pickleball CHIX - and sharing us with your friends. Find find us on YouTube, Apple podcast or any platform.

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PPA bubly Pickleball Tournament, MLP Draft and Interviews with Pickleball Pro's & Owner's

Today’s “Word of the Day”you now what to do when you hear the word of the day

partner

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

pickleball CHIX Sipper

What's in the cocktail?

Champagne of choice (Brut) with fresh cantaloupe juice and shaved vanilla bean

This is the tenth episode where the Pickleball CHIX talk with pickleball PRO - Brendon H Long - of Naples, Florida playing on the Major League Pickleball team - the Miami Pickleball Club, and hot off the court taking the "GOLD" with Tyson McGuffin in Men's Doubles at the Selkirk Red Rock Open this past weekend in Utah where they battled Dekel Bar/Collin Johns and Riley Newman/James Ignatowich on their way to the GOLD. We get the inside scoop from Brendon - on the rollercoaster ride and the energy and excitement of the tournament.

We talk about how Brendon who is from Naples, Florida started playing pickleball because his Mom had known about pickleball. His Mom learned about pickleball from her brother. What a great story.

Brendon's Uncle claims he knew the guy that invented pickleball, and about 30 years ago, he bought a whole bunch of nets, and tried to pitch it to cruise ships and hotels and everything that it was more accessible in smaller, like smaller space sport. And he couldn't sell any of them. He just lost a whole bunch of money and no one no hotels or cruise ships wanted it.

Upon Brendon's return from college and who he met Kyle Yates and Barry Waddell in Fort Meyers, and created a fun friendship playing, having fun and started playing in pickleball tournaments.

FIRST TOURNAMENT - US Open Which interestingly enough is about to start in Naples, Florida, April 15 - 22, 2023.

RED ROCK PLAY

Brendon says, "I ask all my partners is I want I need you to pump me up. Okay, I try and do it myself. But it's just so much better when my partner is also bringing the intensity and the energy because it just helps me get focused and it makes me have more fun when I'm having fun. I just feel like I'm playing better. So Oh, and Tyson brings that a lot, right there's a lot of chest bumps. There's a lot of high fives there's a lot of pushing, right. And people after watching it, I didn't really realize at the time but feel goes, Tyson pushed you so many times I thought he was going to take you out and go back and watch. Every time I turned around. Tyson is just like pushing me in the bat. When I love it, like, that's what I want. And not just him like he's so like, he hypes the crowd up, too. So he gets the crowd excited, which makes them cheer more, which makes the whole environment better and makes me have more fun, which makes me play better."

What does Brendon like most about Men's Double Pickleball Partner, Tyson McGuffin?

Brendon - Answer: He is just very supportive. He's just very supportive as a partner.

SEMI - Pickleball Trash Talk

Brendon shares, " Oh, well, I wasn't really James. I was doing the trash talking. Yeah, it wasn't James. James's partner was doing a little bit trash talking. And honestly, I kind of I liked when my opponents do trash talking. So Riley was trash talking a little bit, but I don't trash talk that much in general until they do. And then I feel like it's just free rein I can do whatever I want. Now, I'm not the bad guy like you trash talk me first, I can throw it back in your face, and was just okay. So that's something else that I like to like free rein opponents trash talking as much as you want. Because then I can then I can to."

Miami Pickleball Club Major League Pickleball Play

The Miami Pickleball Club made two semi's, played really well end up having a tough loss in the semis. So it was a little disappointing for there after that one.

How did you end up playing for NY Hustlers?

Brendon shares with us, "So, had some dinner after the semi's, went home, went to sleep, went to sleep a little bit too late. And then I get a call like 6:55 and it's Rafa in I'm looking at my phone, okay, and I'm like why is Rafa calling me at 655 in the morning, okay, normally he likes to ask me for Turner grips. So I'm looking at my phone like games and like Rafa wants me to drive over there right now to give him a turner grip at 6:55 in the morning, like I'm not answering this, there's no way there's no way and then fine, but let me see what it is i i Answer the phone and he's like, Tyson's out. I haven't even asked them. Ask them yet. But you're our guy. I'll text Anna to make sure it's okay. Call you back in two minutes. And then I guess he texts Anna and Cory, and then we're like, yep, Anna, Anna likes it and wants to play with you. So you're in be here in two hours. Oh, the issue for me is that I have a very long warmup routine. So I like to get there like an hour and a half before. So I usually go to the trainer to stretch and get loose and then I have like a little bit of a dynamic warmup routine to do and then I like to hit for like 45 or so minutes before I play my first match. So it's seven at this point, we got to play at nine. We're 30 minutes away. So I have zero time to wake up. So I just hopped in the shower for one minute, throw way too many clothes into my bag. And just hop in the car and drive over there.

During the game - we discuss with Brendon the classic Kyle Yates move - blow the ball of the net. You've got to check our social to see this!

APP Pickleball Play

Bobbi Oshiro and Brendon Long take the GOLD playing Parris Todd and Hunter Johnson in the Gold Medal Match of Mixed Pro Doubles at the 2023 Daytona Beach Open APP held at Pictona at Holly Hill in Florida. This was Brendon's first GOLD!

What does Brendon like most about partner Bobbi?

So I've known her and she was just super nice and a super good player. So we just ended up playing some tournaments together and trying to, you know, book a couple and ended up working out because she's she's just so solid and has such good strokes, that I knew we were going to be a good team. She's also another high energy very supportive partner. That is very good for me.

Brendon's Best Shot??

Backhand role. Brendon says, "I feel like most people say that that my backhand roll was my best shot. So that's usually it. I mean, I kind of like when people hit my backhand."

Next Up for Brendon - playing at the US Open in Naples, and hoping to be drafted to a Major League Pickleball premier team.

Brendon is a great guy, and we had a lot of fun interviewing him. Join us to learn more about this pickleball pro who is taking the pickleball community by storm, and certainly someone you will want to watch and follow!

Follow Brendon H Long on Instagram: @brendonhlong or click here

You can find more information on the Pickleball CHIX blog.

We will drop new episodes every other week. Watch for our short podcasts for motivation, lifestyle and other topics on our mind! Upcoming podcasts will include interesting people in pickleball, health and wellness advocates, along with product reviews on paddles, pickleball bags, warm-up and recovery tools and more!

Podcast Schedule - every other WED @3 pm CST

Laughter is the best medicine, and pickleball is the best sport.

Have Ideas for our Show?

If you have show ideas, or topics you'd like to hear more about, or perhaps be a guest on our show, please email us at dink@pickleballCHIX.com

Contact us to host events, getaways, staycations, social lessons, tournaments, teambuilding and more! We love pickleball and the fun is contagious!

the Pickleball CHIX contact info

Annie + Rebecca

email:

dink@pickleballCHIX.com

text: 612-367-6268

Instagram

FaceBook

YouTube

TikTok

PODCAST on YouTube,

Twitch, FaceBook Live, iHEART, Amazon, iTunes, you name it, you’ll find us.

Thanks for subscribing, we hope you enjoyed the show!

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NEW EPISODE: CHIX highlight local pickleball POSSE from Pictona in Daytona Beach Florida

The pickleball CHIX are obsessed with America's fastest growing sport "pickleball." Get ready for their "new local podcast series" highlighting the fabulous people who play and love pickleball on their local courts.

"YOU too"!!! could be featured!!

Today we are introducing the Pickleball POSSE, a fabulous group of friends make up this great group from Pictona in Holly Hills, Florida or as we say "Pictona in Daytona".

Meet the Mayor, Mark and his beautiful wife Jeannette, Scott and Mindy James, Kirstin and Keith Moore, Alan and Deb Hand, Coach Mike and Michelle Hanson, a few POSSE members who couldn't be there Richard and Tracy Arrandale and Courtneyand Jared Shelite.

We will highlight their stories of the game of pickleball that changed their lives. As always, we will have fun, a word and drink of the day! We also have a special drop-in guest, Irina Tereschenko from LA Mad Drops a Major League Pickleball Premier Level Team.

If YOU would like to be featured in the chicks local highlighted series, chat with Annie and Rebecca today, send a message on social or email to dink@pickleballchix.com.

Today’s “Word of the Day”

POSSE

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

Pickleball POSSE - secret recipe of the POSSE. Today, we had an extra special "second" cocktail from Dulce Vida Spirts - a Major League Pickleball Sponsor. They generously donated the Pineapple Jalapeno drinkto us today, and we must say we love it. Thank you Dulce Vida!!

Why does the POSSE love pickleball and what do they love most about Pictona? You'll hear all about it in the podcast.

Learn how Mark played baseball at Pictona before Pictona was Pictona. Learn how they started playing pickleball, what happens when one of the husbands hits a "smash" pickleball hit, and why they just might get a lot of blue cards - well we would like to say the ladies should get "pink" cards.

We hope you enjoyed this FIRST episode of our LOCAL highlight where we shine a light on the people playing pickleball at the local level.

Who are some of the favorite Pickleball Pro's?

Jay Devilliers - learn more about him here. Follow Jay on Instagram here. And follow Jay on FaceBook here. See Jay's profile on PPA here. And on MLP here. Jay plays on the St. Louis Shock Major League Pickleball team.

Ben Johns see him on MLP here. Learn more about Ben's PPA play here. Follow Ben on Instagram here. Ben plays for Seattle Pioneers - Premier Major League Pickleball team

Follow Irina Tereschenko on Instagram, learn more about her play here.

You can find more information on the Pickleball CHIX blog.

We will continue to drop new episodes every other week in our pickleball CHIX podcast, in addition to highlighting local pickleball players, courts and events. Watch for our short podcasts for motivation, lifestyle and other topics on our mind!

Laughter is the best medicine, and pickleball is the best sport.

Have Ideas for our Show?

If you have show ideas, or topics you'd like to hear more about, or perhaps be a guest on our show, please email us at dink@pickleballCHIX.com

Contact us to host events, getaways, staycations, social lessons, tournaments, teambuilding and more! We love pickleball and the fun is contagious!

the Pickleball CHIX contact info

Annie + Rebecca

email:

dink@pickleballCHIX.com

text: 612-367-6268

Instagram

FaceBook

YouTube

TikTok

PODCAST on YouTube,

Twitch, FaceBook Live, iHEART, Amazon, iTunes, you name it, you’ll find us.

Thanks for sharing the pickleball CHIX with your friends. We hope you enjoyed the show!

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CHIX talk with Pro Pickleball Coach Mark Price (PPR Certified)

Bring me the next shiny new thing. The pickleball chicks are obsessed with America's fastest

growing sports pickable. Get ready for on and off the court hot topics, lots of last cocktails and champagne with your hosts, Annie and Rebecca. This is the pickleball CHIX nineth episode of the Pickleball Diaries where fun and laughter abounds, and the pickleball CHIX celebrate over 4000 Instagram followers. This episode is a great one, the CHIX chat with Mark Price with Mark Price Pickleball, making waves with pickleball as a Pro Pickleball player and coach with over 25 years of experience brings pickleball tips, strategy and more on Instagram, facebook, through his camps, clinics and children’s foundation.

Today’s “Word of the Day”

TIP (you guessed it) You know what to do – when you hear the word, “tip” have sip – join the fun with the CHIX!

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

Iron Butterfly in honor of Rebecca’s Birthday.

History of the Shot:

Rebecca loves this drink, her husband drinks it, and Annie first heard about this from her friend Barb –oh so many years ago. YUM!!

What is the shot?

Bailey’s, Tito’s Vodka and Kahlua with some special sprinkles (love it) and a candle for Rebecca’s birthday!

Introducing Mr. Mark Price with Mark Price Pickleball. So special that he came across the pond,

making waves in the pickleball space with his instructional videos, camps, clinics and children’s foundation. Mark came to the United States for love! And – we love it! They met on Instagram – how cool is that!!

Tip Master (that is what the pickleball CHIX call MARK)

Rebecca asked what's your number one tip that you've ever given out? The one that the most people have commented on your Instagram? Mark needs to check with his media manager he's the Stat Master. (ha!)

Mark uses letters to coach with because he finds it is easy for his students to remember.

Pickleball Tip: The Three O’s of resetting

Off balance

Off course

Outstretched

When we are when we're pushed off court or we're off balance, we want to get them back. So we want to attack the player who made us feel uncomfortable. And it's the wrong move!

By attacking when you're off court, your whole court opens. So often, beginners will tend to get pushed off court or off balance and they're attacking back. And they're in a vulnerable position because they're not balanced, or they're off court.

New Pickleball Players

New pickleball players often are met with everybody and anybody who wants to tell new players the way pickleball should be played, where you should stand, and so forth. It becomes overwhelming and actually discouraging, which means, often it is no longer fun playing pickleball.

New Pickleball Player Tip

It is a common problem, whereas many circles across the nation, many people feel it is their right to coach and to instruct and to help. Their attitude, is “Let me help you play.” “Let me give me some advice.”

Many players who have been playing pickleball for years start by wanting to share the rules of the game, but it is almost like they are overstepping boundaries on the court.

Feeling overwhelmed by advice from so many different players is a common obstacle for many in their early pickleball journey, as often it is conflictive and becomes confusing for the new player. The most important thing is to enjoy the game, and to really, politely reject the advice.

As a coach, you are in a position where you are giving correction. And it's almost, you know, it's criticism, in a constructive way. But if it is not delivered in the right way or in the right environment, or if you haven’t been invited to coach, it is just seen as criticism, you're just criticizing, or you're jumping on mistakes.

Mark says it is important for beginners, especially to just enjoy playing. And it's okay to make mistakes, and recognize that you are going to make mistakes, rather than people jumping on your mistakes and correcting you or telling you what should be doing can make you more nervous and make more mistakes, Mark encourages new pickleball players to say that, you know, I'm learning. I just really want to have fun. I appreciate the advice, but I'd rather just listen to my friend who I'm here with. And just sort of say that I've got one friend has helped me learn the game. I don't really want to take your advice.

Mark’s Golden Rule for Coaching on the Court

As a professional coach, when Mark plays with friends, or when rec play, I'm not doing any coaching ever, unless I'm invited to coach. Mark sees coaching as a privilege and needs to needs to have the permission from the person receiving the pickleball coaching.

Mental Pickleball Tip

Mark states often, the mental aspect is an overlooked part of the game. As, as people advance, it really becomes the most important part of the game. You know, “the mental game, is what separates the good from the great” Michael Jordan says.

Top players in any field of sports often are ice cold, they're cool, they're calm, collected, they have the, they have the composure on courts, and they seem unflustered by when they're losing. And I think that, you know, allow your emotions to take over and again, is, is getting angry, getting upset, getting emotional, in the game can lead to your game falling apart.

There is a difference between psyching yourself up and becoming angry. So there's two different things I want. One is the deliberate action of getting yourself excited, come on, let's go and all these sort of things. And you're sort of amping yourself up. And the other is, is criticizing yourself. That was stupid, or, you idiot. This way you're criticizing yourself, or demeaning yourself in anger, or you're just upset or kicking the floor or whatever.

One is the negative and the other one is bringing you into a higher level of play. But I see that I see the top players in, in most sports are have just incredible composure. So they don't seem flustered, if they're winning or losing. They just seem very calm under pressure. And you look at the top players in the world, they just seem that they have their thoughts gathered. They're very focused, they're not showing emotion. They're not showing weakness or strength. They're just really in the in the moment in the game.

Self-Talk

Self-talk is a real key to the highest level in the mental game. I think that the sort of starting level is being positive, which is important. But if, if you only say, you know, you've got this keep going, you can do it, you're the best, you know, it's very surface level. And if you're losing eight, zero, you're saying you're the best, you're the best you've got your brains going well, if I'm a best, why am I losing?

Self-Talk Tip

Mark says, “you must go beyond just positive talk!

Your talk should be specific to the situation and should be positive and about solving the problem. Self-talk is more powerful than anyone else's talk to you. We speak 140 words per minute – self-talk is over 800 words a minute. Get ahold of your thoughts, and intentionally direct them into specifically targeting what needs to be done on the court in terms of how do solve this problem? And how do I win this game?

3.5 4.0 pickleball player tip to move into that next level

Mid-court areas become key for these players. Learn to defend from being attached to your feet, reset off the bounce and reset on the volley. Really working on that transition area.

So at the highest level, in any sport, you're looking at the difference of a reaction time increasing your explosive movement, increasing your speed, your coordination, we are taking milliseconds.

Rolling the ball versus hooking the ball.

Many advanced players can already reset, they already have good

roll volleys, they serve very well, and can reset the ball. So you're trying to

find a small area where you can expose an offense to disguise and through being

creative and having variety in your game. So you're not predictable. Such as

reducing the pace on an attack could be the difference. So you're attacking one

speed, and you reduce the pace, and you're changing, paying the change of pace

was the weapon, because it's invisible, you can't see change of pace.

Advanced Player Tip

Rolling the ball versus hooking the ball.

Listen to the entire podcast for additional tips, such as: ·

X-Strategy

Third-Shot Drives, Dinks or Lobs

Dinking

Mark Price Pickleball Camps and Clinics

Last year Mark Price Pickleball conducted over 20 camps across the states. This year, we're going global. So we're, we're going to be going to Jamaica, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Scotland, Germany, England. So we're all over all over the world. Check out their schedule online at: www.MarkPricePickleball.com

Mark Price Pickleball Foundation for Kids

Mark aims to bring love, joy, of pickleball and hope to the lives of underprivileged children, oth in the US and farther afield, by running (and providing the equipment for) Pickleball camps and events.

Learn more here: https://www.markpricepickleball.com/mark-price-pickleball-foundation

Mark has teamed up with Score International, learn more here: https://scoreintl.org/ and Saving Susan Ministry learn more here: https://www.savingsusanministry.org/

eBooks

Mark is releasing 5 eBooks – follow him on Instagram to learn more.

https://www.instagram.com/markpricepickleball/

Connect with Mark at www.MarkPricePickleball.com to learn more about all of Mark’s tips, camps, clinics, foundation work and more.

Thank you for joining us. We hope you share our show with your pickleball pals, and look forward to you joining us for our next podcast on March 15th where we will once again stir up the fun.

Podcast Schedule

We will drop new episodes every other Wednesday. Watch for our short podcasts for motivation, lifestyle and other topics on our mind!

Laughter is the best medicine, and pickleball is the best sport.

And, don't forget to subscribe and watch us on YouTube!

Shop

Pickleball Obsessed Collection

Have Ideas for our Show?

If you have show ideas, or topics you'd like to hear more about, or perhaps be a guest on our show, please email us at dink@pickleballCHIX.com

Contact us to host events, getaways, staycations, social lessons, tournaments, teambuilding and more! We love pickleball and the fun is contagious!

the Pickleball CHIX contact info

Annie + Rebecca

email: dink@pickleballCHIX.com

text: 612-367-6268

Instagram

FaceBook

YouTube

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PODCAST on YouTube, Twitch, FaceBook Live, iHEART, Amazon, iTunes, you name it, you’ll find us. Thanks for sharing and subscribing to the pickleball CHIX podcast, we hope you enjoyed the show!

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CHIX talk pickleball with Pickleball PRO Zane Navratil

This is the 8th pickleball podcast where the pickleball CHIX interview special guest, Pickleball Pro, Zane Navratil. He is currently ranked #4 in singles on the World Pickleball Rankings, but has been as high as #1, just last summer of 2022. Here are some impressive stats: ·

18X APP Tour Gold Medalist

2X Major League Pickleball Champion

2X PPA Tour Gold Medalist

Major League Pickleball Premier League First-Round

Draft Pick (2023 Season) with Team Frisco Clean Cause

2022 APP Cincinnati Open Triple Crown Winner

The CHIX ask Zane about "Smack Pong", his family, growing up in Racine Wisconsin, and learn about the business opportunity Zane has found with his passion for pickleball. Zane has a connection to the midwest, and has played at a local Minnesota club - Lucky Shots where he has filmed videos. He is a mover and shaker, as he has several partners, such as ProXR pickleball paddle, Yobow recovery tool and Pickle Social owned by Competitive Social Ventures where encouraging play with unique themed entertainment venues center around experiences, premium food and beverage offerings, and live entertainment. Zane shares his experiences moving from APP to PPA for the year 2023, which he is excited about. Coming from Major League Pickleball Team BLQK and an impressive year, he is now with Frisco Clean Cause. Zane loves the team play with the MLP format and now doesn't miss anything

about tennis. Zane shares a tip for pickleball players of all ages and skill levels. He breaks it down into "INPUTS" and "OUTPUTS". Watching your "input" controls the "output", learn more in the podcast. Who is the one person Zane would like to play pickleball doubles with? You'll have to listen to hear his answer.

Smack Pong

A game Zane and his Dad created, and you know what they are still waiting for it to be an Olympic sport. For those who haven't heard of Smack Pong yet, for maybe some of the few who haven't heard of Smack Pong. It's basically like a mix between ping pong and sting pong. And Sting Pong being where you win a point and the other person has to turn around and you get to wing a ping pong ball, Smack Pong is where you play regular ping pong. However, if you just drill somebody with the ball, you get three points instead of one point. So it definitely is for the people that wake up and choose violence in the morning. So that's how that's how my dad and I can sometimes get some aggression out. So the nice part about Smack Pong. Now imagine you're in a pink and a pickleball match and you're playing major league pickleball scoring. It's you're down zero to 20 in a game to 21. The beauty about Smack Pong is the game is never over because if you hit if I hit my dad or my dad hits me above the neckline, headshots are game winning. And my Dad gets a headshot on me and then it's game over. He just turned the tides so yeah, usually when you're down about 15 points, you start going for headshots. It's a ping pong ball, it doesn't hurt too badly.

Zane is a family guy!

Close with both his Dad and Mom, even sharing the same tennis coach as his Dad, Harold Swanson from Prairie School in Racine, Wisconsin.

Entrepreneurial spirit runs deep in the Navratil family. Zane’s parents own Dimples Fine Imports in Racine, Wisconsin, they bring they bring clothing and jewelry and unique gifts from India, China, Thailand. So it's pretty cool. When you are Wisconsin you have to check them out or visit them online https://www.dimplesimports.com

Zane being a business man, majoring in business at UW Whitewater, where he earned his PPA, and played college tennis. Zane says that he is leveraging his passion, which is playing pickleball and is able to build businesses within the space. He sees a lot of opportunity in pickleball, and enjoys the business side of things just as much as I enjoy playing.

What is the connection to Lucky Shots in Minnesota?

Yeah, no, I like I likeLucky Shots. It's a pretty cool place in the in the Twin Cities area I filmed some of my YouTube videos there with, with Chris Olson, from the Pickleball Studio. What I'm also really excited about Pickle and Social which is another is another entertainment facility that's going to that's going to have obviously pickleball and also a top of line, bar and restaurant there. They're based out of the Atlanta area, and I'm a partner and investor with them. So that's a pretty soon when they are when they get their first facility opened in in Gwinnett. Georgia next year. That's where I'll be filming all my all my YouTube videos. Oh, neat. It's got some nice locations. They've got some very high end locations and and a great track record with a couple of their other entities. So I'm excited to be be a part of that team too!

The parent company of Pickle and Social is called Competitive Social Ventures. Pickle and Social plans to debut next year in Gwinnett, where they are building a phenomenal facility from scratch, Zane says.

The own Fairway Social, and Roaring Social. So if you're in the Atlanta area, you got to check out roaring social and, and fairway social as well, you'll have good time.

Zane is committed to the game of pickleball and growing pickleball.

He offers camps and clinics, and a variety of other partnerships.

ProXR Paddle

Zane stated they started designing the paddle in probably October or so of last year. And there are a couple of specific things that really tailor to his game. Here is what Zane had to say:

First and foremost, it has an elongated handle. I think, even longer than than most on the market, I think the first elongated handles came in with like a five to five and a half inch grip. And we bumped that all the way up to to six inches wide. So it's a long grip. And it, it allows you to very comfortably get two hands on the grip of the paddle. So if you use a two handed backhand, what I was used to doing was, I would have to kind of put two of my fingers on the back of the paddle face. And now I don't have to do that anymore, which allows me to use my, my left hand a little bit better, and my left hand can be a little bit more maneuverable now. So that was a big thing. And it had to kind of cool unintended consequences actually, which first, it slightly reduced the surface area of the paddle. And so if you swing this, it feels like it's really light, although it is still coming in at at eight to 8.2 ounces. So it's not a light paddle. It just feels like kind of the best of both worlds. And then also the other thing is more of the weight is is in the handle. So it's it's somewhat headlight, which allows for really good paddle head speed. And so yeah, it'll feel it feels lighter than then eight to one of the other key things was, obviously, we've got to have the raw carbon face that allows for really, really good, good spin, good action. And finally, we have foam infused edge guard. What does the foam infused edge guard do?

Zane says, “for me, what it feels like is it just feels like it. When you hit it off center, it doesn't feel like as much of a miss hit. So it seems to sort of even the paddle out a little bit meaning like if you hit it closer to the edge, it doesn't like you're you're losing something. So that's that's to me feels like the the main thing. So I think it looks sweet. It's got that blue on the face. I think they did a phenomenal job.”

When does the paddle come out?

Stay tuned! Subscribe to Zane’s newsletter to get the scoop! You can subscribe on

his website at: https://zanenavratilpickleball.com/ they are free!

Pro-Athlete Tools – do you use compression boots every day?

Zane, says, “ You know, I wouldn't say that's part of my daily routine but one of the things that is part of my my daily routine, I think there's value to the compression stuff for sure.

His tools of choice where he has found the most value, is the Yobow. More than just a recovery tool. Zane uses it before playing to loosen up some of the muscles and get some blood flowing. A lot of people are like oh my you know my, my calf is sore so I'm gonna go Yobow my calf afterwards, but really consider using it as a warm up rather than just seeing it as recovery is something that's really important, because then I step onto the court feeling really good.

Leslie Roberts - Leslie Roberts was our guest in December, and she shared invaluable tips. We know you work with Leslie, and she has great respect for you!

Transition from APP to PPA

Zane says, I'm so excited, right? Something new, something different. And it seems like, you know, the PPA is really making a push to try and take things to the next level. And, you know, I was ready to ready to try something a little bit different. And obviously love playing major league pickleball as well. So I've really, I've only played two PPA tournaments so far this year, and they've been, they've been great. And then yeah, so I'm excited for the year to come.

What do you like better MLP or PPA?

Since the beginning, Zane has always said that the only thing I really miss about tennis is the team element. And now I don't really miss anything about tennis, because I'm able to do so in in Major League Pickleball. So I mean, I love the team format, I think it just puts a little bit more more pressure and you want to, you don't want to let your your teammates down. And now instead of having one teammate, you have three teammates and owners and fans and whatnot. So I think the team element just creates a whole other atmosphere. And you know, I think it's good that there's both team and individual stuff, because it's nice to then go play a tournament and you can determine who the best doubles team is where that's not necessarily the case in major league pickleball, you can't see, you know, some team could go A sub two guys, or a mixed doubles team could go undefeated in Major League Pickleball. However, they might not win still.

Do you think MLP, PPA, AAP will all combine or form one pickleball entity?

Zane, says, “I think eventually it will. How long that takes kind of depends, because I think every other every other major sport has had multiple leagues in its past, whether that's the NFL MLB, or NBA they've all had, they've all stemmed from a period of competition. Yeah, I think that, you know, PPA, APP MLP are all still very new. And I still think that there's a possibility that another entity comes in.” The barrier to entry is still not not enormous at this point.

Meaning like, if Liv can come in and disrupt the the PGA, I don't see why somebody couldn't come in and disrupt the current pickleball landscape. So there's a tremendous amount of change over only a handful of years.

MLP Play with Frisco Clean Cause

Zane says they are looking to improve from our Arizona performance, will come back stronger and in Daytona, that's for sure.

PRO Pickleball TIP from Zane Navratil for pickleball players of all ages and levels

Separate inputs and outputs when you're playing, meaning focus on what you can control. I can control what I'm doing with my paddle, but I can't necessarily control what I'm doing what the ball does, right. So I could control my swing but I can't control where the ball goes to a certain extent. Don't think about, oh, I missed that shot in the net. That's an output. That's a result of your of your input.

Think about, okay, what caused me to miss that in the net?

Then think “what” can I do to correct that!

Thanks Zane for the tip!

Who would Zane like to play pickleball doubles with?

Warren Buffet. WHY? Because he is a genius, and Zane thinks he is a very interesting guy and would love to chat with him. Zane would allow Warren to serve, and then basically he would run around playing singles while asking Warren questions.

Zane’s Contact Information

Click Here for Instagram

Click Here for FaceBook

Click Here for Website

Click Here for his schedule

UPCOMING Major League Pickleball Events

Coming up is Daytona Beach Florida March 23 – 26th

Click here for MLP Schedules

Click here for upcoming PPA Pickleball Tour Event Schedules

Get it while they are in stock, the CHIX Pink Hat click here.

Thank you for joining us. We hope you enjoyed the show, and look forward to you joining us for our next podcast on March 1st where we will once again stir up the fun.

Podcast Schedule

We will drop new episodes every other Wednesday. Watch for our short podcasts for motivation, lifestyle and other topics on our mind!

Laughter is the best medicine, and pickleball is the best sport.

And, don't forget to watch the bloopers on YouTube!

Shop Pickleball Obsessed Collection

Shop the new

MANIFEST more PICKLEBALL

Have Ideas for our Show?

If you have pickleball show ideas, or topics you'd like to hear more about, or perhaps be a guest on our show, please email us at dink@pickleballCHIX.com

Contact us for all things pickleball! We provide event planning for events, we host events, getaways, staycations, social lessons, tournaments, teambuilding and more! We love pickleball and the fun is contagious!

See you on the court!

the pickleball CHIX

Annie + Rebecca

Raise Your Vibe with the CHIX!

Dink@PickleballCHIX.com

612.367.6268

www.PickleballCHIX.com

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CHIX talk pickleball with Ritchie Tuazon - Owner of Pickleball Dynasty TEAM BLQK

This is the seventh episode where the Pickleball CHIX talk with Mr. Ritchie Tuazon founder and co-owner of major league team BLQK. BLQK was one of the first 8 teams to be a part of major league pickleball in 2021. They made history as MLP's Season 1 Champs. It's an exciting episode, thank you for joining us!

Today’s “Word of the Day”

JOY - learn about BLQK's dedication by clicking here.

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

BLQK TINI - in honor of our guest.

History of the Drink - inspired by BLQK Coffee, who are on a mission to grow the exciting sport of pickleball, and to spread joy that comes from playing pickleball.

Meet one of the nicest guys and owners in the Major League Pickleball space. Mr.Ritchie Tauzon, co-owner of TEAM BLQK. BLQK was one of the original eight major league pickleball teams in 2021 and made history taking the championship in 2021 with their first team members: Ben Johns, Irina Tereschenko, Rob Nunnery and Andrea Koop. In fact, we’ve heard BLQK has been called “the first pickleball dynasty”. Way back when in 2021. Team BLQK is in their third year within the pickleball major league world, and have had top name players in 2022 like Zane Navritil, Parris Todd, Rafa Hewett and returning Irina Tereschenko. Moving into the current year of 2023, Team BLQK has returning player Andrea Koop, who was their 2023 #1 draft pick, along with Dylan Frazier, Frederico Staksrud and Maggie Brascia.

So let’s learn more about Ritchie. Ritchie shares he feel in love with pickleball in January of 2021, and is a big fan of all of the positive aspects of pickleball. So how did Ritchie get his start with owning a pickleball team?

He met with Steve Kuhn, Books Wiley and Christine McGrath. Christine was working with BLQK Coffee in Los Angeles. Ritchie and Justin met each other playing golf together in Burbank, and Ritchie thought this may be a good way to bring more attention to the , and co-owner of BLQK, Justin Watson, former NFL Superbowl Champ and Ritchie and the premise behind BLQK Coffee donates 25% of profits to social justice. Whether that be building courts or donating to high achievers.

Fast forward to 2023 we now have 24 teams. In November of 2022, Major League Pickleball and the Professional Pickleball Association’s new VIBE Pickleball League agreed to merge. Ritchie tells us that the Premier and Challenger league was the answer to the increased interest in teams. The 2023 MLP calendar features six events across Arizona, California, Florida, and Georgia. The year will be divided into two seasons of three events. In the first season, 12 teams will compete in the MLP Premier Level and 12 will compete in the MLP Challenger Level, with rosters consisting of two men and two women.

Talking DUPER – Andrea Koop is underrated – she has such a strong mental capacity and ability to bring a team together as a cohesive whole. Ritchie believes that you can make an argument that after Anna Leigh Waters, Andera should be right up there! She was quite the hit when she was named the #1 draft pick.

The first PPA tournament of the 2023 season, which was the Masters as Mission Hills Country Club in Rancho Mirage, California was quite the event – everyone wore white! AND - BLQK had some great results for TEAM BLQK in the Men’s Singles Championship, where Federico Staksrud took Silver and Dylan Frazier took Bronze.

Watching the APP – we met Parris Todd, former BLQK team member, who gave a shout out to Ritchie and mentioned on of her favorite pickleball memories includes the team meals.

Who would Ritchie like to play pickleball doubles with?

Barak Obama – he would love the unlimited questions he could ask him while playing. COOL answer Ritchie.

AND, what is Ritchie’s favorite pickleball memory thus far?

So so many memories. Team Dinners it is! The

team dinners are amazing, Ritchie really looks back fondly with his teams where

everyone would make their own special dish, sharing meals and getting to know the

team and their families better. The 2022 team had 3 tournaments so breaking bread

at all 3 was very special.

Which is a shared memory of Parris Todd when the

CHIX met up with her at the APP in Punta Gorda in January 2023 where Parris

Todd took the triple crown.

The CHIX offer to make Ritchie and his team

dinner in Daytona Beach Florida at the APP Pro Tour.

UPCOMING Major League Pickleball Events

Just finished January 26 – 29th in

Mesa Arizona

Coming up is Daytona Beach Florida March 23 –

26th

Click here for upcoming PPA Pickleball Tour Event Schedules

See the CHIX Valentine’s Day Collection by clicking here and save 20% if you order by 2/14/2023.

Special order the CHIX crop ¾ zip black sweatshirt with your name and number, click here.

Thank you for joining us. We hope you enjoyed the show, and look forward to you joining us

for our next podcast on February 15th where we will once again stir up the fun.

Podcast Schedule

We will drop new episodes every other Wednesday. Watch for our short podcasts for

motivation, lifestyle and other topics on our mind!

Laughter is the best medicine, and pickleball is the best sport.

And, don't forget to watch the bloopers on YouTube!

Shop Pickleball Obsessed Collection

Shop the new MANIFEST more PICKLEBALL

Have Ideas for our Show?

If you have pickleball show ideas, or topics you'd like to hear more about, or perhaps be a guest on our show, please email us at dink@pickleballCHIX.com

the Pickleball CHIX contact info

Annie + Rebecca

email: dink@pickleballCHIX.com

text: 612-367-6268

Instagram

FaceBook

YouTube

TikTok

Twitch, FaceBook Live, iHEART, Amazon, iTunes, you name it, you’ll find us.

Thanks for subscribing, we hope you enjoyed the show!

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The fun for the CHIX and Pickleball Community Continues

This is the Pickleball CHIX fifth episode of the Pickleball Diaries where fun and laughter abound, while the CHIX catch up on pickleball adventures.

The CHIX introduce the "word" of the day, (can you guess what the word of the day is) and the "in the kitchen cocktail (a different one every week), and of course the CHIX talk about their new favorite paddle, from PikNinja Sports, the Revenant carbon face pickleball paddle.

Don’t miss the fun convo where the CHIX talk with a very special guest, FuYei, founder and Owner PikNinja Sports, offering the best pickleball paddles on the market. Just ask the CHIX! Or don’t take their word for it, check out the article recently featured on CNN where PikNinja is named one of the best paddles for those beginning their pickleball journey.

The CHIX and FuYei talk about how PikNinja got started making pickleball paddles. It is an endearing story, and you will certainly be impressed with the community drive FuYei and PikNinja sports have deeply rooted within them.

Today’s “Word of the Day”

Paddle (you guessed it)

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

The Pink Ninja

What is in the Shot?:

Blue Raspberry Vodka with lemonade

Let’s get started with our treasured guest FuYei and PikNinja’s launch story, and his mission to grow pickleball by sharing the joy and love of pickleball with everyone, including a community driven approach where FuYei shares his expertise with those less fortunate. FuYei is a respected pickler of the Minneapolis community, and shares his favorite moment in pickleball. Enjoy this episode of the Pickleball CHIX podcast.

How did PikNinja ports start?

Kennedy, FuYei’s daughter is the one that helped create the famous Assassin Pro paddle. She initially asked her Dad if she could get her own paddle. After going to Shields and Dick's Sporting Goods to start looking at pickleball paddles, Kennedy was looking for something a young girl would like, such as Wonder Woman or Spider Girl or something cool. After coming up empty handed, little Kennedy (age 6) said Dad, why don't you just make me a paddle Dad.

At that was the start. FuYei made a little ninja, a little ninja, because his daughter wanted something powerful that she could be inspired by that can safe.

All of a sudden, people just started loving it and after seeing FuYei and his family playing on the court they begain asking how they could get on. So FuYei started taking names down, and all of a sudden they had 50 to 100 people on the list. And there we go – the launch of PikNinja Sports. And, after his daughter’s teacher recognizing PikNinja and learning that was her Dad’s company, she came home and in her eyes her Dad is a “star”. There is nothing better than that.

FuYei and his wife Shary are family oriented and are building a company that they are proud of, and hope to make an impact with their community through pickleball. FuYei shares that growing up he played tennis, and developed his skills by watching videos and working hard. He was recruited for D3 tennis, which he tributes to making a significant impact to his life.

FuYei’s previous position was the tennis director at a little nonprofit called St. Paul Urban Tennis where he managed over 80 tennis coaches, with four or five supervisors underneath him, and programming for junior and adult tennis all throughout the city of St. Paul for over 3000 kids in our programs on an annual basis. The goal at the time was to teach, leadership and life skills through the sport of tennis as our vehicle to teach the children this stuff. So this is the mission FuYei had before, and utilizes with pickleball. His goal was to help my kids do something during COVID initially, and now look at this company who was recently featured on CNN where PikNinja is named one of the best paddles for those beginning their pickleball journey.

FuYei very thankful that we found pickleball and believes it helped change his families lives and they found their path and inspired them to be better than what was happening during the depths of the covid timeframe.

FuYei believes sports is an equalizer.FuYei’s Family Pickleball Play.

FuYei and his beautiful wife, Shary (the backbone of the company) do not get to play together as often as they would like, so that is a goal for 2023. You can find the entire family, (all three children) at pickleball tournaments all over Minnesota.

LETS GET TO THE NEW PADDLE – the REVENANT

A year

in the making. The name, Revenant is something that dies and comes back to life and resurrects itself. FuYei felt like in tennis or pickleball you know, you're never out of a game or a match that could be down zero 10. Believe in yourself to come back and fight and claw your way back into a match and win it still. It is the tenacity and the Never Give Up attitude that we want to instill into players when we get on the courts with with this paddle. Not only with his teaching tennis background college and his background, high level tennis, we set out to create a tennis players paddle. It is a true tennis players paddle it, you know, we took all we took we went out there.

FuYei researched the top carbon fiber paddles that were out there at the time, that Ben John's Hyperion paddle and created something that's more balanced by shortening the paddle by a quarter of an inch and added that to the to the sides of the width which opens up the sweet spot and becomes more balanced. In addition to opening up the throat for the people that play with the two handed backhand.

You see a lot of the top players hitting these big two backhand, especially with Anna Leigh Waters. FuYei knew he had to develop a paddle for two-handed backhands to stay relevant. The Revenant pickleball paddle features a surface of raw T700 Carbon Surface – offering unbelievable spin and control.

The PikNinja Paddle Release Party and Celebration at Mega Pickle and Pongv in Chanhassen, Minnesota. As you all know, it is the CHIX favorite pickleball paddle has been the Assassin Pro by PikNinja in “pink”. As mentioned, it is official the CHIX have upgraded to the new REVANENT carbon paddle by PikNinja and wow do we love it. At the release party, “Yoshi” (Jeff Thompson) a fabulous guy, and Ambassador for PikNinja had this great idea to bring a radar gun (speed gun) to time the serve speed of – the REVENANT - talk about fun! Our own CHIX Rebecca made the leader board for the ladies! Nice work girl!!

FUYEI’s SPECIAL MOMENT in PICKLEBALL

Youth events by far! A few years ago, FuYei partnered up with his old my old nonprofit at their annual picnic event where hundreds of kids show up and he was helping to teach them how to play pickleball. His daughter played in with that group, and actually started teaching them how to play pickleball because she's more familiar with it than they were. It meant so to FuYei to see her giving back to other little kids that were her age or even younger.

Here is what Fuyei said:

“And to see, you know, the growth of my little six, seven year old daughter doing that just meant so much to me. And again, going back to family community, it just all kind of all came together at that moment. And I was like, I would love to pass all this down into my children. And I think that it would mean something to them, and not just to me anymore. And so I would be very proud if they, you know, lived and breathed this just as much as we did. And you know, it doesn't have to be pickleball but, you know, sports or just being a good person and being good human beings. I think that means so much more to me than anything. So, you know, moments like that, that I just I love so thank you”.

Pickleball Pro to watch –

Zane Navratil is FuYei’s pick. He has trained with him, and knows him and sees him as not only a talented pickleball player, but a man with integrity. We are all excited to hear about Zane’s big announcement. You can learn more about Zane by clicking here.

WHAT? Steve KUHN went to high school with Rebecca?

Yes he did, and his 40 by 30 Project is fascinating, and we are all a part of it!

Paddles Up!! Let’s go – the spirit of the pickleball sport is everyone is welcome. We have a lot in common. Let’s go 40 million pickleball players by the year 2030.

WHO would FUYEI want to play PICKLEBALL DOUBLES WITH?

Any guesses? FuYei would love to play with his wife!

We all agree, we all love the magic of pickleball, the friendships we've made, the fun we've enjoyed, the exercise, sense of community, social fulfillment and more of this incredible sport.

We want to know, what is your favorite benefit of playing pickleball? When did you start playing pickleball and on a scale of 1 - 5, how obsessed are you with pickleball? Pickleball is easy to learn, anyone can play, but truly most would agree it is difficult to master. And, perhaps, that is what has us all hooked! The strategy of the game keeps all of us picklers on our feet, the game is ever-changing and really taking off in 2023.

Check out the Pickleball CHIX blog to see more details.

Thank you for joining us.

We hope you enjoyed the show, and look forward to you joining us for our next podcast on February 1 where we will once again stir up the fun with Major League Pickleball Team BLQK Owner, Ritchie Tuazon

Podcast Schedule

We will drop new episodes every other Wednesday. Watch for our short podcasts for motivation, lifestyle and other topics on our mind!

Laughter is the best medicine, and pickleball is the best sport.

Shop Pickleball Obsessed Collection

Shop the "new" Manifest More Pickleball Collection

Have Ideas for our Show?

If you have pickleball show ideas, or topics you'd like to hear more about, or perhaps be a guest on our show, please email us at dink@pickleballCHIX.com

the Pickleball CHIX contact info

Annie + Rebecca

email: dink@pickleballCHIX.com

text: 612-367-6268

Instagram

FaceBook

YouTube

TikTok

PODCAST on YouTube, Twitch, FaceBook Live, iHEART, Amazon, iTunes, you name it, you’ll find us.

Thanks for subscribing, we hope you enjoyed the show!

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Pickleball CHIX host Rick Gray of Mega Pickle and Pong -

Minnesota's Premiere Pickleball Club

The fun for the CHIX and Pickleball Community Continues

This is the Pickleball CHIX fifth episode of the Pickleball Diaries where fun and laughter abound, while the CHIX catch up on pickleball adventures.

Don’t miss the fun convo where the CHIX talk with a very special guest, Mr. Rick Gray, founder and Owner of Minnesota’s premier pickleball club Mega Pickle and Pong in Chanhassen, Minnesota. Rick shares how Mega got its start, who inspired him to consider opening a pickleball club, how Mega’s facilities were designed, or should say by whom, and his vision for community and building friendships playing America’s fastest growing sport, “pickleball”. He has become obsessed with pickleball, and shares a very BIG and EXCITING announcement, or should we say confirms the BUZZ in the air!

The CHIX catch-up.

Annie has been in Marco playing pickleball at the Marco Island Racquet Center, YMCA, The Pickleball Center in Naples, a few private residences and more. Loving the sunshine and playing in pickleball in paradise. Meeting great people, playing fun pickleball and taking in the warm and sun of beautiful Florida.

Rebecca has been taking care of her knee, following strict orders, and finding that icing and cryo-therapy is a must. She is healing – and her CHIX partner is super excited to be back on the pickleball court playing with her partner!!

The mental fortitude Rebecca has demonstrated is beyond compare. In sports, including pickleball, your mindset, your mentality all impact your game. Rebecca also attended the PikNinja Paddle Release Party and Celebration at Mega Pickle and Pong in Chanhassen, Minnesota. As you all know, our favorite pickleball paddle has been the Assassin Pro by PikNinja in “pink”. However, we have upgraded to the new REVANENT – carbon paddle by PikNinja and wow do we love it. At the release party, Rebecca chatted with FuYei, Founder and Owner of PikNinja, and “Yoshi” a fabulous guy, and Ambassador for PikNinja. Can you believe they had a radar gun to verify the improved speed using this new fabulous paddle – the REVENANT

We all agree, we all love the magic of pickleball, the friendships we've made, the fun we've enjoyed, the exercise, sense of community, social fulfillment and more of this incredible sport.

We want to know:

What is your favorite benefit of playing pickleball?
When did you start playing pickleball
On a scale of 1 - 5, how obsessed are you with pickleball?

Pickleball is easy to learn, anyone can play, but truly most would agree it is difficult to master. And, perhaps, that is what has us all hooked! The strategy of the game keeps all of us picklers on our feet, the game is ever-changing and really taking off in 2023.

Speaking of we talk about the upcoming changes to the pickleball rules for 2023. Pickleball Pro, Anna Leigh Waters makes the conversation. Do we have your attention?

Check out the Pickleball CHIX blog to see more details.

Today’s “Word of the Day”

MEGA(you guessed it)

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

The Drop Shot!

History of the Shot:

Rebecca created this beauty for all pickleball lovers. Here are in the ingredients:

Kahlua
Bailey's
Tennessee Fire
Dollop of whipped cream for fun, a bit of cinnamon for taste
Sugared cinnamon rim

Let’s get to our treasured guest, Rick Gray.

Fun convo with Mr. Rick Gray, Owner and Founder of Mega Pickle and Pong in Chanhassen, Minnesota. We love Mega Pickle and if you haven’t played @Mega yet – you have to get there soon!

Mega Pickle and Pong

2929 Water Tower Place, Chanhassen MN, Call them at 952-300-8752

Mega on FaceBook Mega on Instagram

Mega offers:

leagues
open play
events
pro shop
and more!

How did MEGA start?

Originally, it was an idea between college buddy and Rick. They shared a passion for playing ping pong. So the original concept was a little ping pong club. Wondering how to turn passion for pong into a revenue generating business, Rick stumbled onto the fabulous world of pickleball. Rick’s Mother-in-law, an avid pickleball player took Rick out to the courts, and she encouraged Rick to look into the possibility of pickleball - as it was blowing up!

After playing a handful of times, Rick started showing up at random courts around the city over summer and seeing the amount of people there and started to enjoy pickleball personally. This wonderful feeling turned into a business opportunity, as at that time, there were no other businesses that were open. Mega's main competitor was not open at the time yet.

Rick says, “So it was really kind of just a shot in the dark

let's see where it goes and here we are today.”

Mega Pickle and Pong is a beautiful club featuring 6 professional grade cushioned courts, with all of the amenities you seek, maybe even more! We've enjoyed our ladder leagues, open play and events at Mega. Mega has a sincere interest in making pickleball a wonderful experience for players of all ages and skills.

The facilities include a unique, beautiful and fun mural in the Pro Shop. You must see this design. This concept was created by Rick’s wife, Kara. She had a rough idea, they contacted some local artists, and they drew us a sketch, they loved it and the rest is history. In fact we are recording in front of this cool mural. Nice job KARA, we love it!

Speaking of Rick’s wife, and partner in life is a wonderful Mother to their two children, ages 5 and 8, a Partner at a large Law Firm, and not only concepted the mural, but designed the MEGA space, which both Annie and Rebecca loves. Really Kara thought of everything!

Rick’s Family Pickleball Play.

Recently, Rick and Kara started playing in leagues together, and enjoyed all that we love about pickleball, together as a couple. And, Rick is encouraging his children to play pickleball when they want. It really is a fun family sport, pickleball is a sport for everyone.

LETS GET TO THE HUGE MEGA PICKLE and PONG BUZZZZZZZRick is giving us all the "the unofficial official announcement"... MEGA is opening a second location in Minnetonka. with 10. Courts, bar, patio, food. Yes Rick’s wife, Kara will be working with Designers to ensure the same great feel as Chan. Does it get any better? NO!! We are all so excited for this.

Rick said MEGA is trying to offer more amenities for our guests. And they promise to keep the expansion to a second location with the special feel of community.

We all agree, when you walk in to MEGA you feel like you are a part of the family.

Rick is laser-focused on ensuring a very inclusive, community building environment with wonderful customer service. Rick want’s people to know that even though we're expanding, they're still going to get the same great at home feeling that they get at MEGA in Chanhassen.

Annie shares customer service experiences at MEGA to illustrate in fact, how wonderful the customer service experience is at MEGA. She cites both Megan and Bob and their eagerness to make you feel at home, and provide the service you need to not only feel good, but grow your game. In particular, the CHIX talk about Tracy, a MEGA coach that Bob arranged for the CHIX early play to better learn the game.

MEGA and The Pickleball CHIX put on a wonderful event together, the Pickleball CHIX Extravaganza with 18 teams of ladies, where the fun was ever-present. Rick’s wife, Kara participated in the event, and yes, it’s true there was a PINK APE at the event, we have the pictures to prove it!

Rick also gave the CHIX a few compliments about the pickleball events hosted throughout the city, and the joy in having fun, building relationships that are long lasting. Thank you Rick!

RICKS SPECIAL MOMENT in PICKLEBALL

A lot of people driving and walking while MEGA was under construction just so anxious to come in. At that time, Rick didn’t have a lot of pickleball experience previously, and once he started to see higher level pickleball play, he quickly realized there was so much more complexities to the game, and what was involved.

He was invited to play with the higher level players, and although he says they “crushed” him, they also helped motivate him and really opened his love for the game. It is the strategy that Rick realized was so much more involved than what he had witnessed while watching outdoor pickleball play. It really stuck with him, and now, yes Rick is “obsessed” He can’t get enough, but sadly his play has taken a backseat with all of the activates to open the new club, and let's face it MEGA is busy - everyone loves playing at MEGA!

What does Rick love most about pickleball?

The people, the community!! Anybody can play. And, because the pro scene is relatively new, it's ever evolving with strategies and gameplay constantly changing. Rick is excited to see the progression of pickleball to include all the different styles the unique techniques that people use.

Upcoming Pickleball Rule Changes in 2023

2023 rule changes have now been made official.

They have banned the one handed spin serve, so you're no longer able to spin the ball out of your hand prior to hitting it.
They have changed back a little bit of what the score rule is. So last year, they had changed if you called the wrong score, you just played through and corrected it afterwards. For pickleball 2023, if the serving team calls the incorrect score, the receiving team can stop play, even if they've served it as long as they don't return it. It's a redo!!

WHO would RICK want to play PICKLEBALL DOUBLES WITH?

Any guesses?

Rick would love to play with Anna Leigh Waters.

WHY? Rick says, “Hands down the best player in the game right now. So young, so much talent. Just to be on the court with her would just be a true learning experience.”

Thank you RICK for being our guest, sharing your passion for pickleball, and of course for giving us the BUZZ on your new location. We love MEGA, and really value your commitment to pickleball, the community, the game, the friendships and experiences. We are thrilled to be a part of this fabulous community you've built! Congratulations to you, Kara and your team!

Thank you for joining us. We hope you enjoyed the show, and look forward to you joining us for our next podcast on January 18th where we will once again stir up the fun.

Podcast Schedule

We will drop new episodes every other Wednesday. Watch for our short podcasts for motivation, lifestyle and other topics on our mind!

Laughter is the best medicine, and pickleball is the best sport.

And, don't forget to watch the bloopers on YouTube!

Shop Pickleball Obsessed Collection

Shop the new MANIFEST more PICKLEBALL

Pickleball CHIX blog.

Have Ideas for our Show?

If you have pickleball show ideas, or topics you'd like to hear more about, or perhaps be a guest on our show, please email us at dink@pickleballCHIX.com

Contact us for all things pickleball! We provide event media coverage, event planning, co-host and sponsor events, getaways, staycations, social lessons, tournaments, teambuilding and more! We love pickleball, the fun is contagious and we want you to enjoy the best in life!

the Pickleball CHIX contact info

Annie+ Rebecca

email: dink@pickleballCHIX.com

text: 612-367-6268

Instagram

FaceBook

YouTube

TikTok

You can find more information on the Pickleball CHIX blog.

Find our PODCAST on YouTube, Twitch, FaceBook Live, iHEART, Amazon, iTunes, you name it, you’ll find us.

Thanks for subscribing, we hope you enjoyed the show!

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PPA bubly Pickleball Tournament, MLP Draft and Interviews with Pickleball Pro's & Owner's

This is the fourth episode where the Pickleball CHIX talk about the their experience at the PPA bubly Tournament in Vegas, the MLP draft, the Premier and Challenger teams of the MLP, the PPA bubly team Championships between pickleball pro’s and tennis pro’s and the latest MLP exciting news. #playwheretheprosplay

Top pickleball pros we feature in this podcast:

Anna Leigh Waters
Zane Navritil
Tyson McGuffin

Big News. Stay tuned! Margaritaville joins Major League Pickleball as a Title Sponsor branding the league “MLP by Margaritaville”. As a leading global leading lifestyle brand the goal is to elevate the live experience for fans, players and MLP events nationwide. Who doesn’t love Jimmy Buffet? We sure do!

Sounds like fun – nice move MLP!!

Fun Fact!

Jimmy became addicted after playing his first pickleball game - we know the feeling. Jimmy says, "fins -up" and "paddles-up".

A BIG THANK YOU!

We continue to thank you for following us, we nearly have 2000 followers on Instagram and we are excited, and are grateful you are subscribing to our podcast, sharing with us and getting to know us! We are happy to have you with us for the Pickleball CHIX, Pickleball Diaries fourth episode!

Today’s “Word of the Day”

PRO’s (you guessed it) You know what to do – when you hear the word, “Pro’s” have sip – join the fun with the CHIX!

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

Deck the Halls with “Pickleballs”

History of the Drink: It’s the perfect way to celebrate your pickleball passion this festive season.

What is the drink? Red gelatin at an angle in the glass, peppermint cacao (an Elixir) with condensed milk to create a fudgy sauce, Bailey’s and whip cream – topped with pickleballs, and Santa hats!! (why not)

bubly Tournament Recap:

It was a fabulous experience for the CHIX in VEGAS at the buby PPA tournament at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino’s Convention Center. The facilities were well appointed and spacious to include fabulous pickleball courts, music pumping through the space, where the energy was flowing and the excitement of playing where the pro’s play was part of the fun.

This was a PPA tournament, with a variety of age and skill levels playing pickleball within a double elimination format where the matches consisted of a best of 3 game format with each game to 11, win by 2 points.

We played with PikNinja Sports paddle, and played with the new and fabulous Revanent Carbon Fiber Paddle by PikNinja. And we love it! Thank you Fu Yei!!

If you are considering a new paddle, we highly recommend either the Assassin Pro (our first paddle - now updated or the Revenant.

The Revenant Paddle boosts with a surface of raw T700 carbon, offering unbelievable spin and control, with a high performance honeycomb polymer core for increased sweet spot compared to other carbon surface paddles on the market. We love the weight: 7.8-8.3 oz +/- Mid-weight - a perfect blend of both power and control, and the paddle length offers increased reach and power, and thickness of 16 mm for extra control and stability (we love it).

Back to the Game for Players at the PPA Bubly Pickleball Tournament

Games were going non-stop from Friday morning through Sunday afternoon. It was so much fun, and a great experience. Both Annie and Rebecca highly recommend anyone considering participating in a PPA tournament to go for it. And, be sure to watch the CHIX Pickleball Tournament Ready video on our YouTube channel.

MLP Draft Recap:

Watching the 2023 MLP Draft live in Vegas was exciting! The founder of Major League Pickleball, Steve Kuhn was there. Not only is he an avid pickleballer, but he went to high school in Columbia Heights with our own CHIX, Rebecca, so they were able to catch up and talk about their mutual passion, “pickleball”. Steven Kuhn has been quoted to say that by the year 2030 he wants “40 million” pickleball players, and he is also hoping to see pickleball in the Olympics by 2028, which requires an official announcement by 2024, should be interesting!!

Fun Fact!

Did you know that Steve first heard about pickleball from his nephew. When asked who Steve would like to play pickleball with, his responded: “If I could time travel I'd go back to play with Joel Pritchard. And like the first game in 1965”

The Major League Pickleball Commissioner, Brooks Wiley announced each of round one draft players. It was so exciting to be there to watch and experience the buzz in the room!

There were many other owners of Major League Pickleball present for the draft, such as Kim Clijsters, Kaitlin Kerr, both with LV Night Owls.

The number one draft pick for the Major League Pickleball is Anna Leigh Waters, playing for the 5’s. She was super pumped and excited to be #1., Live coverage of the MLP draft was on the Tennis Channel.

MLP 2023 and 2024 Pickleball Season:

It is so interesting to see what MLP has cooking for the 2023 season. There are two levels, Premier and Challenger, each consisting of 12 teams. The Premier level teams were announced during the draft, Friday evening, December 16, 2022. MLP is offering up to $5 million in prize money and payouts to its players in 2023.

It has been an interesting week with announcements of the Challenger Team players and owners rolling out the past few days on social media. Have you seen any of the updates? Stay tuned, we have details for you.

As far as the 2024 pickleball season, each team will be competing in 2023 to secure a top position for 2024, which will bring a promotion and relegation system to major U.S. sports for the first time. Pickleball, everyone’s favorite sport, continues to grow and keeps getting more and more exciting!!

Interviews with Major League Pickleball Owners Kaitlyn Kerr and Kim Clijsters. Did you know they are best friends and met on the pickleball court?

We met the original Pickleball.CHICK, Kaitlyn Kerr – GM and owner of MLP – LV Night Owls. YES – we are in a special club – the “pickleball chicks”, or pickleball chix as we say it. Kaitlin tells us what it was like to make the draft picks for her team, LV Night Owls. It sounds like a lot of work! She is delighted with the draft results and loves her team, and so do we. We wish the team a lot of luck! You can follow Kaitlyn @pickleball.chick

Kim Clijsters is a Belgian former professional tennis player, and reached the world No. 1 ranking in both singles and doubles, having held both rankings simultaneously in 2003. She won six major titles, four in singles and two in doubles, and a very nice person!

She shared her excitement with us for her team, and co-owners, and the upcoming 2023 pickleball season. The first draft pick for her team LV Nigh Owls, is Vivienne David, who spoke at the draft about her admiration of Kim, and Kim is looking forward to cheering Vivienne on during the 2023 season. Kim also enjoyed meeting the other owners, and sharing their mutual passion for pickleball. You can follow Kim @clijsterkim

Interview with Pickleball Pro, Tyson McGuffin

We love your game Tyson! We asked have you always played this way, and he said, no he has more confidence while being authentic. Being confident, being a nice man, family man and business man. Tyson invited everyone to come get McGuffin, go to TysonMcgGuffin.com He teaches the best pickleball camps nationwide. You can contact his lead guy, Kyle McKenzie, you can come get KMac, go to TysonMcGuffin.com.

Tyson is partnering up with PPA which means you take a camp on Monday and Tuesday and play in the PPA tournament, you play Thursday through Sunday. Tyson also partnered with Chicken and Pickle, and invites you to check out one of those cool chicken and pickle locations, eat some good food and hang out with me.

Catch Tyson on YouTube: Tyson McGuffin pickleball Click Here

Check out his podcast called The McGuffin show. Click Here

Tyson has many sponsors and someone to follow, his game is fun and he is an all around great guy!

Interview with up and comer Pickleball Pro Chris Haworth.

Chris medaled at the 5.0 Pro level at the PPA bubly Pickleball Tournament. What a thrill it was to watch Chris and interview him. Coming from a tennis pro background. Chris became serious about pickleball, for 6 weeks! WOW! And, what a nice, nice man. His game is crazy, he is one to watch, we will see more of Chris, we are 100% confident. And his Coach, Kelly is fabulous. It was so fun to meet them both.

Who would Chris like to play pickleball with? Serena Williams.

Who would Chris like to play pickleball doubles with?Kelly, his Coach.

You can follow Chris on Instagram @Chris_Haworth

Let’s look at the team’s and players for Premier and move to Challenger.

Major League Pickleball 2023 Draft Results -

1 Anna Leigh Waters - Jersey 5's

2 Ben Johns - Seattle Pioneers

3 JW Johnson - ATX

4 Anna Bright - NY Hustlers

5 Catherine Parenteau - LA Mad Drops

6 Riley Newman - Hard Eights

7 Jay Devilliers - Cabo Vamos

8 Jessie Irvine - FL Smash

9 Vivienne David - LV Night Owls

10 Andrea Koop - BLQK

11 Callie Jo Smith - Milwaukee Mashers

12 Zane Navratil- Clean Cause

The 2023 Major League Pickleball Premier Teams and Players

New Jersey 5s – find them on

Instagram @the5spickleball

Anna Leigh-Waters Instagram: @a.l.waters_a1
James Ignatowich Instagram: @jamesignatowich
Lea Jansen Instagram: @leajansen_pb
Hayden Patriquin Instagram: @hayden_patriquin

Seattle Pioneers – find them on

Instagram @seattlepioneers_pb

Ben Johns Instagram: @benjohns_pb
Etta Wright Instagram: @ettatwright
Meghan Sheehan-Dizon Instagram: @meghandizon.pb
Tyler Loong Instagram: @tyler.loong

ATX Pickleballers

JW Johnson Instagram: @jdubpickleball
Jackie Kawamoto Instagram:
Jade Kawamoto Instagram:
Gabriel Tardio Instagram: @gabriel.t_pb

NY Hustlers – find them on Instagram @nyhustlers_pb

Anna Bright Instagram: @annabright.pb
Tyson McGuffin Instagram: @tysonmcguffin
Rafa Hewett Instagram: @rafahewettpb
Lacy Schneemann Instagram: @lacyschneemann.pb

Mad Drops – find them on Instagram @maddropspc

Catherine Parenteau Instagram: @catherineparenteau.pb
Irina Tereschenko Instagram:@sicktrx_irina
Julian Arnold Instagram: @julianarnold.pb
Thomas Wilson Instagram:

SoCal Hard Eights – find them on Instagram @hard8s.mlp

Riley Newman Instagram:@rileynewmanpb
Lindsay Newman Instagram: @lindseynewman27
AJ Koller Instagram: @ajkoller_pb
Mary Brascia Instagram: @marybrascia.pickleball

Cabo ¡Vamos! – find them on Instagram @cabovamos

Jay Devilliers Instagram: @jaydevillierspickleball
Simone Jardim Instagram: @ simonep_jardim
Allyce Jones Instagram: @allycejones.pickleball
Erik Lange Instagram: @erikblange

Florida Smash– find them on Instagram @ floridasmash

Jessie Irvine Instagram: @jessie.i.irvine
Jorja Johnson Instagram: @jorjajohnson_pb
Travis Rettenmaier Instagram: @travisrettenmaier
Collin Johns Instagram: @collinjohns_pb

Las Vegas Night Owls – find them on Instagram @lv.nightowls

Vivienne David Instagram: @viviennedavid97
Dekel Bar Instagram: @dekelbar_pb
Lauren Stratman Instagram: @lolo_strat_pb
Kyle Yates Instagram: @kyleyates.pb

California Blqk Bears – find them on Instagram @blqkbears

Andrea Koop Instagram: @akoop_pb
Dylan Frazier Instagram: @teamdylanfrazier
Federico Staksrud Instagram: @federico_staksrud
Maggie Brascia Instagram: @maggiebrascia.pickleball

Milwaukee Mashers – find them on Instagram @milwaukee_mashers

Callie Jo Smith Instagram: @calliejosmith_pickleball
Lucia Kovalova
Andrei Daescu Instagram: @andreidaescupb
DJ Young Instagram: @darrianyoungpb

Frisco Clean Cause

Zane Navratil Instagram: @zanenavratilpickleball
Matt Wright Instagram:
Lina Padegimaite Instagram: @lina_padegimaite
Yana Grechkina Instagram: @yana_pickleball

The full Challenger Level team names, rosters and owners are as follows:

Atlanta Bouncers

Roster: Hunter Johnson, Brooke Buckner, Ben Newell, and Christine McGrath

Team Owners: Anheuser-Busch

AZ Drive

Roster: Wes Burrows, Sarah Ansboury, Andreas Siljestrom, and Sarah Burr

Team Owners: Larry Fitzgerald, Devin Booker, Dierks Bentley, Robert Gary, Doug Hirsch, Sheila

Gulati, John Merwin, Sam Frakes, Mark Dalton, and Richard J. Schnall

Bay Area Breakers

Roster: Pablo Tellez, Ewa Radzikowska, Christian Alshon, and Rachel Summers

Team Owners: Jeremy Lin, Mimi Mercado, David Mercado, Geoff Nguyen, Stacey Nishi, Jeff Nishi, Wayley Louie, and Kathleen Louie

Brooklyn Aces

Roster: Cierra Gaytan-Leach, Rob Nunnery, Corinne Carr, and Greg Dow

Team Owners: Kevin Durant and Rich Kleiman’s 35V

Chicago Slice

Roster: Susannah Barr, Emily Ackerman, Connor Garnett, Ryler DeHeart

Team Owners: Ron Saslow’s 35 Capital, Heidi Klum, Tom Ricketts, David Justice, Doug Ellin, Chris Evert, Lindsay Davenport, Tracy Austin, Gigi Fernández, David Dobrik, Joe Bonamassa, Ted Foxman, and Steve Bellamy

Columbus Pickleball Club

Roster: Milan Rane, Becky Ryan, Yates Johnson, and CJ Klinger

Team Owners: David Kass, Doug Ulman

Dallas Pickleball Club

Roster: Megan Fudge, Chuck Taylor, Brandon French, and Christa Gecheva

Team Owners: Mark Cuban, Dirk Nowitzki, John Isner, Robert Herjavec, Chandler Parsons, and Todd Wagner

D.C. Pickleball Team

Roster: Sam Querrey...

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Pickleball Trainer to the Pro's - Leslie Roberts

Shares 4 Steps to Add to your Warm-Up to Prevent Pickleball Injuries

Bring me the next shiny new thing. The pickleball chicks are obsessed with America's fastest growing sports pickable. Get ready for on and off the court hot topics, lots of last cocktails and champagne with your hosts, Annie and Rebecca.

This is the Pickleball CHIX third episode of the Pickleball Diaries where fun and laughter abounds, while the CHIX connect with special guest, Leslie Roberts.

Leslie has an impressive sports background with over 21 years of personal training experience, and has an interesting connection to the pickleball world, to include providing training to pros and other talented picklers - including amateur's with the goal to maximize the game, prevent injury, or recovery fully from injury. Leslie prides herself in impacting the unique needs of each person she works with.

We continue to be thankful for your interest in following us,

sharing with us and getting to know us! We are happy to have you with us!

As we dive into some great pickleball conversation with Leslie

Think about your routines, and what you are doing to prevent injury and take care of your one and only beautiful body.

Today’s “Word of the Day”

STRETCH (you guessed it)

You know what to do – when you hear the word, “fun” have a sip – join the fun with the CHIX and their fabulous guest, Leslie!

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

The “Pickle” POPPER

History of the Shot:

Pickleball is a popping good time – your shot should be too! When your cupboard is full of pop rocks, and you just love creating fun new drinks, you come up with the “Pickle POPPER”

What is the shot?

Blue Raspberry Vodka
Elderberry tonic
Glass rimmed with pop rocks (bang bang)

How did Leslie start working with the Pickleball Pro’s?

As Leslie started to grow her pickleball skills, Jarad Paul with The Kitchen Community created a clinic to be held in Texas with MLP Pro, Zane Navratil conduct a clinic in Texas. During the clinic, Leslie saw something going on with Zane, and she offered to help him – and after that – she jumped on a virtual session with Zane in May of 2021 and they have been working together ever since!

Leslie’s primary goal is to enhance game, and stay out of trouble to learn more about bodies, mechanics and good movement patterns to stay out of injury.

Interesting Facts About Leslie

Leslie has played competitive volleyball, full contact professional football (in her mid 20’s). Leslie started playing pickleball during covid in a league, which is also when she started connecting with her clients through virtual personal training sessions, which have been very successful for her clients.

Leslie visited Minnesota in October and played at Mega Pickle and Pong in Chanhassen, Minnesota (our fav), and loved the special treatment by her teammate (yes warmed up the car – Minnesota Nice).

GET READY with These 4 STEPS

Tournament Ready - Ladder League Ready - Open Play Ready - Social Play Ready

4 Parts to a good Warm-Up from Leslie - a system Leslie has coached for a very long time.

Did you know that these 4 steps do "not" have to happen right before you play?

They should, however be a part of a regular system. Every person is different, and the components of each step may vary from person to person.

1. Palpations (what is that) You can use a foam roller

Foam rolling is a form of self-myofascial release or SMR. Kind of like a self-massage that is used to release muscle tension, improve flexibility and boost movement efficiency. Your tissues will respond to care and therapy.

2. Static Stretching (could be done the night before) can be around the area of concern or the area causing concern. Hence a personal trainer can help identify.

Hold a position for a length of time, some areas should be held longer than others
There is some scientific value to hold times, but there really is no magic button.

3. Dynamic Stretching – which is stretching with movement. Instead of holding a quad stretch, maybe swing your leg.

4. Raising your core temperature

During your dynamic portion you are preparing your body neuromuscularly, raising your body heat and activating muscles getting ready for your sport – or in this case –the fabulous game of pickleball.

There is an immediate value and pay-off to this 4 step system. You will feel better on the pickleball court, and more than likely enjoy your games more fully.

Leslie's Favorite Pickleball Moment

Leslie started at 3.2, and now has medaled at 5.0! CONGRATULTIONS LESLIE!!!

The MLP - Minors would be one of the favorite moments for Leslie. The tournament was the first one for Minor Leagues in pickleball during the month of October. Amrik Donkena - who is a Pro at Mega Pickle and Pong (our fav) needed to turn around and fly right back to Minnesota Friday at 1 pm as his wife was having a baby.

Leslie got to work and reached out to her contacts the night before the tournament and found a player for 7 am court time (in Texas), he drove all the way from Joplin Missouri.

Do you know about the MLP Format?

Leslie loves the MLP Format, where everyone is invested in the team. The MLP pickleball format includes a 4 person team - rally scoring.

Leslie is waiting to see what the Minor League is going to offer for tournaments, stay tuned!

Let's talk about tools for pickleball players

Cryotherapy

Cryotherapy, which literally means “cold therapy,” is a technique where the whole-body or specific areas are exposed to extremely cold temperatures for several minutes.

Cryotherapy can be administered in a number of ways, including through ice packs, ice massage, coolant sprays, ice baths, and even through probes administered into tissue.

Red Light Therapy

The use of red and infrared light is a well-researched method of therapy which can increase performance and potentially enhance soft tissue recovery for anyone playing sports, including pickleball.

Vodoo Bands (Vodoo flossing)

Vodoo Wide X Band This provides compression and is suited for hard to get to areas.

Compression Boots

Perfect to improve circulation, improve lymphatic function, release muscle tension

We want to know Leslie…

Who would you love to play pickleball doubles with?

Leslie’s answer “a significant other” (what a great partner Leslie would make)

We want to meet your DOGS

BRUNO 9 ½ or 10 – Leslie loves to rescue dogs. See him on Instagram.

FUN LESLIE FACT

Did you know Leslie loves to design (architecture). We think she should design pickleball courts and pickleball restaurants.

Leslie says, "One of the benefits of personal training is the ability to provide more of a prescriptive approach." Reach out to Leslie for virtual services, no matter what your pickleball skill level, or goals may be.

VIRTUAL TRAINING with BULLETPROOF YOUR BODY – LESLIE ROBERTS

Email TrainerLeslie@gmail.com

Instagram Bulletproof_Your_Body

Website coming BulletproofYourBody.com

Leslie's GIFT TO YOU

Be sure to email us at Dink@PickleballCHIX.com for access to Leslie's Warm-Up Video.

OTHER TOPICS and LINKS YOU MAY LIKE

Interested in The Kitchen?

Web Site https://thekitchenpickle.com/

FaceBook https://www.facebook.com/groups/thekitchenPB

Learn More About Zane and Pro Pickleball Team BLQK

ZANE NAVRATIL, Major League Pickleball Player, rated at 6.590 DOUBLES DUPR and is a part of TEAM BLQK. Follow Zane on Instagram

Other BLQK Team Members on Major League Pickleball Players

Paris Todd, DBL DUPER 5.770 (follow on Instagram click here)
Irina Tereschenko, DBL DUPR 5.730 (follow on Instagram click here)
Rafa Hewett, DBL DUPER 6.390 (follow on Instagram click here)

Bubly Tournament Information: (be sure to watch us LIVE on FACEBOOK in VEGAS - BABY)

Live coverage on Tennis Channel and ABC for the world’s best pickleball players (24 of the worlds top pro’s) will battle for a title and big stakes ($175,000 prize money) Friday, Dec. 16 – Sunday, Dec. 18 in the 2022 Bubly Team Championships Presented by MGM Rewards, a one-of-a-kind pickleball event at Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino’s Convention Center.

Four world-class teams will begin competition Friday, Dec. 16, followed by the semifinals on the evening of Saturday, Dec. 17 on Tennis Channel. The finals will be held Sunday, Dec. 18 at 1 p.m. ET/10 a.m. PT on ABC.

Tickets for the weekend’s festivities are now on sale. To purchase tickets, visit the event website at teampickleballevent.com.

Top pickleball pros we spoke about in our first podcast will be there:

Anna Leigh Waters
Ben Johns
Catherine Parenteau
Riley Newman

And, of course, the Pickleball CHIX will be among 1,000 amateur players are expected to take to the courts while pickleball festival activities will run concurrently during each day’s competition.

We will be following Leslie's steps, setting up our virtual appointments, and bringing our rollers to VEGAS!

Here is the format for the CHIX in VEGAS

FormatThis is an indoor event and will be played on a concrete surface using dedicated pickleroll courts and C&D nets

SR OPEN AND AMATEUR FORMAT:

Double Elimination with no come around (i.e.if a team loses a match the best they can do is bronze. They cannot come around to win the gold).

5 team minimum for under 70 events. Events will be combined if less than 5 teams. 70+ events will be combined by age. Under 70 will be combined by skill.
Main Draw: Matches consist of a best of 3 game format with each game to 11, win by 2 points.
Consolation: Each match consists of one game to 15, win by two points except for the final match which determines 3rd place.
Round Robin for divisions of 5 teams (doubles only, singles 5 player divisions play Double Elimination), 4 teams, and 3 teams for 70+ only. Winners will be determined by matches won, head to head, and point differential.

Have Ideas for our Show?

If you have show ideas, or topics you'd like to hear more about, or perhaps be a guest on our show, please email us at dink@pickleballCHIX.com

Contact us to host events, getaways, staycations, social lessons, tournaments, teambuilding and more! We love pickleball and the fun is contagious!

the Pickleball CHIX contact info

Annie + Rebecca

email: dink@pickleballCHIX.com

text: 612-367-6268

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This is the season of gratitude!

This is the Pickleball CHIX second episode of the Pickleball Diaries where fun and laughter abounds, while the CHIX celebrate gratitude during this Thanksgiving season.

We have so much to be thankful for, and thank you all for your interest in following us, sharing with us and getting to know us! We are happy to have you with us!

It is the season of gratitude! What are you thankful for?

Look for something, someone, and express your feelings – after all – it is the greatest gift you can give!

Today’s “Word of the Day”

FUN (you guessed it) You know what to do – when you hear the word, “fun” have sip – join the fun with the CHIX!

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

The Ernie! By Bartender, Ashton Hicks (Rebecca’s son)

History of the Shot:

Rebecca was the inspiration for the shot! As she is on the mend and working on the ERNIE for the Bubly Tournament in Vegas. Yes, the CHIX are participating in the tournament.

What is the shot?

Midori, vodka and pineapple juice, with some special sprinkles (love it)

Bubly Tournament Information:

Tickets for the weekend’s festivities are now on sale. To purchase tickets, visit the event website at teampickleballevent.com.

Top pickleball pros we spoke about in our first podcast will be there:

Anna Leigh Waters
Ben Johns
Catherine Parenteau
Riley Newman

The art of gratitude – we have so much to be grateful for.

One of the things we're so...

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This is the start of something fabulous!!

This is the Pickleball CHIX first episode of the Pickleball Diaries where fun and laughter abounds, while the CHIX kick-off their first podcast.

The CHIX introduce the "word" of the day, (can you guess what the word of the day is) and the "in the kitchen cocktail (a different one every week), a favorite pickleball training tool, and of course the CHIX talk about their favorite paddle, the PikNinja Sports, Assassin Pro - in pink!

Fun convo looking at the start of pickleball in the Minneapolis Suburban Metro area with the OG of pickleball, Bob Lanzi of Mega Pickle and Pong in Chanhassen, Minnesota .

Bob has interesting stories, and valuable tips to share. You can find the tips on the Pickleball CHIX blog or in the show notes.

And, did you know pickleball originated in 1965? Do you know the pickleball story? Stir up the fun with the CHIX - on and off the court. Laughter is the best medicine, and pickleball is the best sport. And, don't forget to watch the bloopers!

This is the start of something fabulous!!

This is the Pickleball CHIX first episode of the Pickleball Diaries where fun and laughter abounds, while the CHIX kick-off their first podcast. The CHIX introduce the "word" of the day, (can you guess what the word of the day is…) and the "in the kitchen cocktail (a different one every week).

Today’s “Word of the Day”

BOB (you guessed it)

Today’s In the Kitchen Cocktail

The Pickleback is Jameson Whiskey with a back of “pickle juice”. Really...who doesn't love pickle juice?

History of the Shot:

The Pickleback shot originated from The Bushwick Country Club bar in Williamsburg, Brooklyn.

Reggie Cunningham is thought to be the originator of the popular shot back in 2006.

Pickleball Training Tool and Pickleball Paddle

Favorite pickleball training tool, the Vulcan V100.

And of course the CHIX talk about their favorite paddle, the PikNinja Sports, Assassin Pro - in

pink!

Upcoming Tournaments

Pickleball CHIX EXTRAVAGANZAat Mega Pickle and Pong (full event - we are so excited) on November 19th we have 18 teams for our first event with a lot of fabulous surprises planned.

Pickleball CHIX Pickleball Diaries: Recent Episodes

Annie + Rebecca

1 Anna Leigh Waters - Jersey 5's

2 Ben Johns - Seattle Pioneers

3 JW Johnson - ATX

4 Anna Bright - NY Hustlers

5 Catherine Parenteau - LA Mad Drops

6 Riley Newman - Hard Eights

7 Jay Devilliers - Cabo Vamos

8 Jessie Irvine - FL Smash

9 Vivienne David - LV Night Owls

10 Andrea Koop - BLQK

11 Callie Jo Smith - Milwaukee Mashers

12 Zane Navratil- Clean Cause