¿Sibling Rivalry on the Court? - Ep. 12 with Ava Ignatowich

 

Rising Star Ava Ignatowich Commits to PPA Tour While Balancing College

Homegrown tennis talent turned pickleball phenom signs with PPA, sets sights on top 10 ranking amidst economics degree

Introduction

Ava Ignatowich is an upcoming professional pickleball player who recently signed with the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA). In a new YouTube interview, she provides background on her tennis upbringing, plans for balancing pro pickleball and college, her relationship with her brother James who plays on a rival pro tour, and her goals and vision for the future.

About Ava Ignatowich

Ava Ignatowich is a 21-year-old pickleball player who has taken the sport by storm over the past few years. Originally from Delray Beach, Florida, she comes from a tennis family and was homeschooled along with her brothers to focus on tennis training. She went on to play college tennis for two years at Davidson College before transferring to the University of Miami to be near her family.

Key Topics Covered

In her recent interview on the XPickle YouTube channel, Ava opens up about her background in tennis, decision to pursue professional pickleball, how she'll balance touring and college, her relationship with her brother James who competes on a different pro tour, and her vision and goals as she establishes her pro pickleball career.

Ace Pickleball Club - The 26O Pickleball Edition!

 

A Pickleball Revolution Comes to Fort Wayne

Spiece Fieldhouse to be transformed into largest indoor pickleball complex east of the Mississippi

Pickleball, one of the fasting growing sports in America, is coming to Fort Wayne in a big way. Local entrepreneurs TK Herman and Scott Howard have partnered to turn the iconic Spiece Fieldhouse into the flagship location for a new national chain of premium indoor pickleball facilities. "For the Fort Wayne community, it's centrally located. Rather than having two facilities, we can have one large facility," said Herman.

At 66,000 square feet, the new complex will be the largest dedicated indoor pickleball facility east of the Mississippi River. With 22 regulation-size courts, including a championship court, the Spiece location is poised to transform Fort Wayne into a pickleball destination. "This is about double the size of what Ace Pickleball Club wants for a facility," said Herman, referring to the national pickleball club chain that Herman and Howard have partnered with to launch their new venture.

The transformation of Spiece Fieldhouse signals the explosive growth of pickleball nationwide. A paddle sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton and ping pong, pickleball has spread like wildfire over the past decade. Herman cited some staggering statistics about the sport's growth:

1. 00:47 - The Fastest Growing Sport in America

"Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the country," said Herman. He noted that while most players currently compete outdoors, the rise of indoor facilities is inevitable. "Seventy percent of the country cannot play outdoors 60% of the year. And even when you can play outdoors, you're at the mercy of the wind and the heat."

Herman believes pickleball is reaching a tipping point where major tournaments will move indoors, following the lead of professional tennis. The unpredictable outdoor elements make it difficult to film and broadcast pickleball for mainstream audiences.

2. 03:09 - Perfect Timing for Indoor Facilities

Herman and Howard sense an opportunity to get ahead of the curve. "We could not be happier to bring this to Spiece," said Howard. The partners plan to open 10 pickleball facilities across the Midwest over the next two years, with Fort Wayne as the flagship.

"Our goal is to put Fort Wayne on the map," said Herman. With its massive footprint and prime location, the Spiece complex will introduce pickleball on a grand scale to the region.

Tyra Black Interview: New Partnerships, Family, and more!

Tyra Black: Tennis Rebel Finds Her Calling in Pickleball

Former junior tennis phenom discusses leaving the sport, overcoming anger issues, and embracing the welcoming pickleball community

As the evening sun dipped below the palm trees surrounding the pickleball courts in Boca Raton, Florida, Tyra Black leaned back in her chair and flashed a radiant smile. The 22-year-old pickleball pro was relaxing after a friendly practice session with some of the sport's biggest names who also call South Florida home.

It was a scene that perfectly encapsulated the laid-back vibe of pickleball that first attracted Black to the sport after a decade competing in the ultra-competitive, cutthroat world of professional tennis.

"In tennis it's a really lonely sport, everyone is out for themselves," explained Black during her PPA Interview with Hannah Johns. "In pickleball it's like a big family. Even if you fight on the court, when you get off everyone's chilling and hanging out."

The tight-knit nature of the burgeoning sport has been a revelation for Black, who says she never felt at home on the pro tennis circuit despite ranking as high as No. 300 on the WTA Tour as a teenager.

After rocketing up the junior ranks and playing tournaments all over the world, she walked away from tennis in February. Burned out and disenchanted, Black was ready to leave the sport she had dedicated her life to since first picking up a racket at age 5.

Black made headlines in August when she shocked the pickleball world by taking down reigning World #1 16-year old Anna Leigh Waters in a thrilling match at the Takeya Showcase in New Port Beach, CA. She thrilled the crowd with an array of skilful shots showcasing her fluid movement, quick hands, and vicious backhand.

The stunning upset propelled Black into the limelight and served notice she was ready to contend with the world's best players. She has capitalized on that breakthrough performance by inking endorsement deals with several prominent brands, including an apparel partnership with Stack Athletics and a paddle agreement with the new company PIKKL USA.

During her interview, Black opened up about her challenging journey from tennis burnout to pickleball sensation this year. She also discussed the keys to her success and goals for 2024 and beyond.

Hurricane Tyra Black is On Team PIKKL

 

PIKKL Unveils Cutting-Edge Pickleball Paddles, Enlists Tyra Hurricane Black as Brand Ambassador

New Launch Aims to Elevate Pickleball Experience with Innovative Technology and Top-Tier Performance Equipment

PIKKL, the pioneering brand committed to reshaping the pickleball sphere with its selection of top-tier offerings, has formally declared the release of its high-performance pickleball paddles. With a focus on delivering unparalleled quality and performance, PIKKL aims to cater to players of all skill levels.

Accompanying this milestone, the renowned American professional tennis and pickleball player, Tyra Hurricane Black, has been appointed as the brand ambassador, a move that amplifies the brand's commitment to excellence and innovation within the sport.

In a bold stride that is set to reshape the dynamics of the ever-growing pickleball community, PIKKL has emerged as a beacon of premium performance gear, setting a new standard for players across the spectrum. Co-Founder Mike Stromman's vision for the brand is grounded in the unwavering pursuit of providing players with pro-level paddles that are meticulously engineered and designed to unlock their full potential on the court. Stromman emphasized that the core ethos of PIKKL is rooted in inspiring excellence and fostering an environment where players can achieve their best.

The flagship product, the PIKKL Vantage Pro paddle, stands as a testament to the brand's commitment to pushing the boundaries of innovation. Boasting an elongated face paddle constructed with raw carbon fiber, the Vantage Pro exudes an unparalleled blend of power, control, and finesse. This ground-breaking design empowers players with an extended reach, allowing them to effortlessly maneuver lower balls with enhanced precision. The infusion of raw carbon fiber not only amplifies spin but also facilitates pinpoint control placement, a feature that can significantly influence competitive play.

One of the defining characteristics of the Vantage Pro lies in its incorporation of Pur-Cell Foam technology, ensuring heightened durability and an expanded sweet spot. This advanced feature serves to minimize the impact of vibrations, providing players with an optimal playing experience that is both responsive and comfortable. Additionally, the paddle's thermoformed design contributes to its superior performance, maintaining a well-balanced weight distribution that underscores its durability and resilience on the court.

Available in 14MM and 16MM options and an array of vibrant colors including black, blue, green, pink, and red, the Vantage Pro stands as a pinnacle of engineering prowess, retailing at $139.99.

PRODUCT SPECS

• Average Weight: 7.95 oz (14mm) / 8.3 oz (16mm)
  
• Paddle Length: 16.25 inches
• Paddle Width: 7.5 inches
• Grip Length: 5.35 inches
• Grip Circumference: 4.25 inches

Enthusiasts can secure their own piece of pickleball excellence by visiting the official PIKKL website at www.pikkl.com.

Expressing her excitement about the partnership, Tyra Hurricane Black, a prominent figure in the world of both tennis and pickleball, emphasized the vital role that premium equipment plays in shaping a player's journey. Black's high regard for PIKKL stems from the brand's unwavering dedication to excellence and forward-thinking approaches, which seamlessly align with her own dynamic style of play. Furthermore, the brand's emphasis on inclusivity and fostering a familial environment resonates deeply with Black's personal values, underscoring the synergistic bond between her and the brand.

The announcement of PIKKL's entry into the pickleball scene arrives at a time when the sport continues to gain widespread popularity, attracting players from diverse backgrounds and skill levels. With a mission to cater to the burgeoning community of pickleball enthusiasts, PIKKL's foray into the market symbolizes a pivotal moment in the sport's evolution, underlining the brand's commitment to offering top-tier gear that can elevate gameplay and inspire players to reach new heights of performance.

For more information on PIKKL and its range of high-performance pickleball paddles, visit the official website at www.pikkl.com.

Summary:

In a game-changing move within the world of pickleball, PIKKL has launched its premium line of high-performance paddles, spearheading a new era of innovation and excellence in the sport. Backed by the appointment of Tyra Hurricane Black as the brand ambassador, PIKKL's commitment to delivering top-tier equipment that caters to players of all levels stands at the forefront of its mission. With the introduction of the Vantage Pro paddle, boasting cutting-edge technology and a meticulously engineered design, PIKKL aims to redefine the pickleball experience and empower players to unlock their full potential on the court.

2023 APP Houston: Sorry Not Sorry Podcast

  

Thrills and Controversy Abound at APP Houston Open

Pickleball’s biggest names battle for gold in event marked by questionable calls

1. Women's Singles Sees Retirement Drama and Dominance from Top Seed (2:16)

The women's singles draw at the 2023 APP Houston Open was marked by controversy, as top American female player Megan Fudge announced her retirement from the singles bracket mid-tournament. Fudge cited repeated questionable line calls from top seed and defending champion Salome Devidze as the reason for her withdrawal.

In an Instagram post, Fudge claimed Devidze had 4 clear overrules against her in their tournament match, just as she did in a previous event. "A player cannot continue to cheat and hope that refs miss it and have zero consequences," Fudge wrote. "Enough is enough. Time to take action."

Host Chris Cali weighed in on the drama, applauding Fudge for trying to enact change but questioning if her boycott would be impactful enough. "I don't think any players are just going to retire just because of Salome," he said. "You can't encourage this type of stuff. Something definitely has to change."

Devidze, meanwhile, cruised to the final, where she defeated Judith Castillo in straight sets. The 37-year-old Georgian native has dominated the US singles circuit in recent years but has generated controversy with her liberal line calls. "For most people it's the bad line calls," Cali said. "For me, it's the sound you make after every shot."

2. Teen Phenoms Quang Duong and Ronan Camron Battle in Men's Final (10:01)

The men's singles draw provided a glimpse into the future of the sport, as two teenage phenoms battled for gold. 19-year-old Kuang Dang, known as the "ball bender" for his ability to shape shots, took on 17-year-old Ronan Cameron in a clash of exciting young talents.

Duong cruised to a dominant straight sets victory, showcasing his blistering groundstrokes and deft touch at the net. The American has burst onto the pro scene over the last two years, rising rapidly up the rankings.

"It just goes to show you how new pickleball is," commented Cali. "We've got a bunch of teenagers playing at the professional level."

With his maiden APP tour win, Duong looks poised to become a force in the men's singles bracket for years to come. Meanwhile, Camron gained valuable experience and demonstrated his own shotmaking talents in a run to the final.

3. Veterans Susanna Barr and Megan Fudge Take Down Young Stars For Women's Doubles Gold (14:17)

The women's doubles final pitted the veteran duo of Susannah Barr and Megan Fudge against up-and-coming partners Vivian Glozman and Alix Truong. Glozman and Truong represent an exciting new generation of all-around athletes who grew up playing pickleball. But the savvy Fudge/Barr relied on their experience to come away with a hard-fought victory.

The match was tightly contested, with the teams battling through long, athletic rallies showcasing quick reflexes at the non-volley zone. "This is women's doubles all day long," enthused Cali during one 14-shot exchange.

Glozman and Truong took the veterans to a tiebreak in the second set, but Barr and Fudge ultimately prevailed 15-11. The gold medal represents redemption for Fudge, who withdrew from the singles event earlier in the week.

"Another gold medal for Megan Fudge and Susannah Barr," said Cali, applauding the champions. "Alex Truong with a thousand yard stare after the match. She's devastated."

4. Andrei Daescu and Susanna Barr Repeat as Mixed Doubles Champions (25:17)

The mixed doubles draw saw Andrei Daescu and Susannah Barr successfully defend their APP Houston Open title, defeating the scratch pairing of Tamaryn Emmrich and Johnson Cinola.

The match got off to a controversial start, with Emmrich disputing a line call that the referee refused to overturn due to improper appeal procedure. "I feel like she did appeal it immediately," said Cali of the disputed call. "They're really not going to let her get that call overturned?"

Daescu and Barr cruised from there, taking the match 15-4 in the tiebreak. Barr and Daescu have emerged as the team to beat in mixed doubles, capturing titles at several recent APP events.

"Another gold medal for them in mixed doubles," concluded Cali. The duo will look to continue their dominant run at upcoming tournaments.

5. Men's Doubles Sees Compelling Matchups Between APP and PPA Stars (31:08)

The men's doubles competition provided some of the most intriguing action of the tournament, as partnerships between APP and PPA players led to blockbuster matchups.

The highlight occurred at the Lone Palm Pro Player Showcase exhibition event, held earlier in the week. APP rising stars Rob Nunnery and Andrei Daescu battled PPA stalwarts JW Johnson and Dylan Fraizer in the final, staking their claim as a top team.

Nunnery and Daescu held match point at 10-6 in the deciding set, only to see Johnson and Frazer mount a furious comeback. "Daescu and Nunnery, up 10-6 in this one, and they blew it," recounted Cali. "They lost at 13-11 in the third game."

At the APP Houston Open, Nunnery and Daescu again faced tough opposition from Stefan Auvergne and Brandon Long. While CLAIMING GOLD IN STRAIGHT SETS THIS TIME, the match helped prove Nunnery and Daescu can compete with and defeat PPA teams. The win establishes them as major contenders entering the 2023 season.

Summary:

The 2023 APP Houston Open served up a smorgasbord of dramatic storylines and marquee matchups in the world of professional pickleball. Megan Fudge's retirement, the emergence of teen phenom Kuang Dang, and gold medal victories for Susannah Barr and Andrei Daescu highlighted a tournament marked by questionable officiating. The event set the stage for next weekend's star-studded MLP Orlando Open, the first major PPA event of the new season. With bragging rights and rankings supremacy on the line, the competition in Central Florida is sure to thrill from start to finish.

Host Chris Cali provided enthusiastic commentary throughout, applauding triumphs and criticizing controversies. His insights and reactions helped chronicle a memorable weekend for the growing pickleball community. Though still facing issues like inconsistent refereeing, the sport continues to capture attention and attract top-flight athletic talent. The future looks bright for pickleball as it builds momentum and expands its fanbase.

2:16 Women's Singles 10:01 Men's Singles 14:17 Women's Doubles 25:17 Mixed Doubles 31:08 Men's Doubles - Lone Palm Pro Player Showcase 34:29 Men's Doubles - APP Houston Open