2023 PPA Las Vegas - The Biggest Cheaters in Pickleball | This Pickleball Life (Ep. 24)

 

The Pros and Cons of Paddle Testing

Jill Braverman and Kristin Walla Discuss Controversies Around Paddle Regulations Introduction: In this week's episode of the "This Pickleball Life" podcast, hosts and pro players Jill Braverman and Kristin Walla dive into the complex issues surrounding paddle testing and regulations. They analyze the differences between PPA and MLP protocols, debate issues of fairness and safety, and propose potential solutions. While the discussion centers on technical and political controversies in the professional pickleball scene, Braverman and Walla ultimately advocate for integrity and transparency at all levels of the sport. 0:00 What happened in Vegas? In the opening segment, Braverman recounts her experience at a recent PPA event in Las Vegas where she felt opponent Irina Tereshenko was using an illegally "hot" paddle that gave her an unfair advantage. Braverman and her partner Tyra Black were unable to counter Tereshenko's power and speed. 8:30 Do you hate the player or the game? The hosts discuss whether players should be blamed for using questionable paddles that pass PPA testing, or if the testing protocols themselves enable the problem. They debate issues of ethics and temptation within a system that seems to allow loopholes. 10:45 PPA accidentally destroys a paddle Braverman shares an anecdote about the PPA accidentally destroying a confiscated paddle after promising to return it, damaging their credibility. This illustrates broader issues of transparency and trust. 15:00 "Sticker gate?" There is confusion around a claim by Tereshenko about using a PPA-approved paddle, seemingly contradicted by the sticker she presented. This adds to the climate of doubt and accusations. 16:00 Change to unchange The hosts argue the PPA should be frequently updating rules even if they have to reverse them later, rather than stagnating and enabling unfair play. Tim Park's quote about the necessity of writing rules you may have to "unwrite" is referenced. 20:17 Who is the biggest cheater in the game? Braverman argues the PPA's lack of robust paddle testing protocols and transparency cheats players, fans and gamblers by allowing murky equipment standards. The PPA seems reactive rather than proactive. 24:46 Potential solutions The hosts brainstorm constructive solutions like publishing paddle ban lists, empowering referees, aligning with the MLB/PPL standards, and forming an independent player council. Communication and transparency are key themes. 29:42 Hustler Nation Braverman and Walla shift to discussing roster changes during the recent league draft, analyzing team chemistry and partnership dynamics. They express excitement about emerging young talent infusing the sport. 35:10 DJB: How do you pick the best partner for you? Addressing a listener question, the hosts emphasize compatibility over skill level in choosing an ideal partner. Trust, chemistry and complementary play styles are more predictive of success than individual talent. 41:20 DJB: Should you serve big? Answering another listener question, Braverman and Walla strongly advocate for aggressive, confident serving rather than timid "steering." This applies equally in both traditional and rally scoring.

Conclusion: Though centered on controversies in professional pickleball, this thought-provoking discussion highlights issues of transparency, integrity and fairness relevant at all levels of the sport. Braverman and Walla model constructive debate and solution-focused thinking, while maintaining their signature upbeat energy. Their insights provide valuable perspective for players, organizers and fans aiming to nurture the continued growth of pickleball in an ethical and inclusive spirit.

1. 0:00 What happened in Vegas?
2. 8:30 Do you hate the player or the game?
3. 10:45 PPA accidentally destroys a paddle
4. 15:00 "Sticker gate?"
5. 16:00 Change to unchange
6. 20:17 Who is the biggest cheater in the game?
7. 24:46 Potential solutions
8. 29:42 Hustler Nation
9. 35:10 DJB: How do you pick the best partner for you?
10. 41:20 DJB: Should you serve big?