Monday, April 29, 2024

Let the players do the talking w/ Lea Jansen: PickleballPod

 

0:00 Zane demands a trade 4:29 What you’re hearing about JOOLA 6:28 Lea joins the pod 11:09 Why Lea retired from singles 16:10 Also retired from Twitter 20:50 Drug testing and line calls 25:10 Refs fandom an issue 32:09 Want a grievance system 36:46 Inconsistencies in paddle testing 42:22 Only a high-profile incident will create change 44:07 Should be able to capitalize on natural advantages 49:24 Bringing a stack of paddles to be tested 53:56 The upper limit of power 1:00:31 Devil’s advocate on bad line calls 1:02:30 Power ranking beefs 1:07:50 Women’s players that are on the rise

2024 PPA Red Rock Open Championship Sunday

 

Gold 
Bright/Smith vs Jansen/Pisnik 
Daescu/Tardio vs Frazier/Johnson
Wright/Johns vs Bright/gnatowich
Federico Staksrud vs Jack Sock

Bronze
Black/Jones vs Emmrich/Padegimaite
Kaitlyn Christian vs Jorja Johnson
Tyson McGuffin vs Christian Alshon
Truong/Garnett vs Frantova/Daescu 


News
Golden girl: Brascia snags first PPA title
Mary Brascia is a gold medalist on the PPA Tour for the first time in her career after a 7-11, 11-4, 11-9 victory over Lea Jansen.

Wright, Johns secure mixed doubles gold
For the second time this month, Etta Wright and Ben Johns are mixed doubles champions.

Staksrud overcomes Sock for fourth title of 2024
Not a bad way to end your first tournament as the No. 1 ranked singles player in the world.


2024 PPA LA Open - The best sh*t talkers on tour/Tennis Sucks Podcast

 

3:28 Travis Wins Men's Doubles Bronze Medal At The PPA LA Open: Travis Rettenmaier/Zane Navratil vs Connor Garnett/Augie Ge 10:06 How To Build Your Partners Up 12:31 Hayden Patriquin - Body Bag/Getting Chirpy 16:28 What about the women? 18:52 Mixed Doubles/Joola Gen 3 Paddle 20:44 Roscoe and Beth Bellamy 21:39 Tyson McGuffin 22:15 Ben Johns/Anna Bright 23:54 Federico Staksrud

Saturday, April 27, 2024

2024 PPA Red Rock Open - Doubles

 


2:10:05 Tyra Hurricane Black / Allyce Jones vs Ivy Tschetter / Ekaterina Biakina 2:42:53 Connor Garnett / Christian Alshon vs Andrei Daescu / Gabriel Tardio 3:34:39 Tyson McGuffin / Dekel Bar vs Quang Duong / Blaine Hovenier 4:25:00 Federico Staksrud / Pablo Tellez vs Andrei Daescu / Gabriel Tardio

Bronze
Ben Johns/Collin Johns vs Tyson McGuffin / Dekel Bar
2:33:03 Tyra Hurricane Black / Allyce Jones vs Tamaryn Emmrich / Lina Padegimaite

7:53 Alix Truong / Connor Garnett vs Martina Frantova / Andrei Daescu 57:29 Christian Alshon vs Tyson McGuffin 1:31:08 Kaitlyn Christian vs Jorja Johnson 2:33:03 Tyra Hurricane Black / Allyce Jones vs Tamaryn Emmrich / Lina Padegimaite

News

Daescu, Tardio to face Frazier, Johnson for men’s doubles gold
History seems to be repeating itself in Utah.
 (MD)
After a late run, the No. 5 seeds are moving on.
 (WD)

Resource


Friday, April 26, 2024

2024 PPA Red Rock Open - Mixed Doubles

 



7:55 Craig Johnson / Angela Walker vs Dominique Schaefer / Wyatt Stone 3:11:25 Jay Devilliers / Callie Smith vs Vivian Glozman / Christian Alshon 5:08:21 Alix Truong / Connor Garnett vs Lea Jansen / Hayden Patriquin 6:06:13 Milan Rane / Gabriel Tardio vs Martina Frantova / Andrei Daescu

1:22:21 Vivian Glozman / Christian Alshon vs Carson Klinger / Judit Castillo 2:28:08 Milan Rane / Gabriel Tardio vs Tamaryn Emmrich / Darrian Young 3:23:34 Lea Jansen / Hayden Patriquin vs AJ Koller / Emilia Schmidt

3:26:14 Mari Humberg / Augustus Ge vs Alix Truong / Connor Garnett 
4:20:30 Cass Hoag / Anderson Scarpa vs Martina Frantova / Andrei Daescu

Bronze

7:53 Alix Truong / Connor Garnett vs Martina Frantova / Andrei Daescu

Live Streams


News

Bright, Ignatowich power way to Championship Sunday in Utah

The No. 1 seeds came through a tough quarterfinal match on Humana Championship Court.

Cass Hoag and Anderson Scarpa are into the Round of 16 after taking down the No. 5 seeds.


2024 PPA LA Open Top 10 Points

Thursday, April 25, 2024

Are the PPA/MLP For Sale? Are We Ruining Pickleball? | This Pickleball Life

 

The Future of Pickleball: Paddles, Power, and Passion on the Line

As the sport grapples with controversies surrounding powerful paddles and player compensation, co-hosts Jill Braverman and Kristin Walla delve into the issues shaping the game's trajectory.

In the dynamic world of pickleball, where passion meets precision, the game's future hangs in the balance. Co-hosts Jill Braverman and Kristin Walla of the "This Pickleball Life" podcast have their fingers on the pulse of the sport, fearlessly tackling the controversies and triumphs that define this moment in pickleball's evolution.

From the contentious debate surrounding overpowered paddles to the complex dynamics of player compensation and governing bodies, Braverman and Walla bring an infectious enthusiasm and authoritative voice to the discussion. Their latest episode is a whirlwind tour through the game's most pressing issues, offering insights that resonate with players and fans alike.

As the sport rapidly ascends to new heights of popularity and professionalism, the co-hosts' candid commentary is a beacon of clarity amidst the chaos. Their words carry the weight of experience, tempered by an unwavering love for the game that has captured the hearts and minds of millions worldwide.

1. 0:00, Coming Up

The episode promises a tantalizing array of topics, from the juicy drama surrounding the Joola Gen 3 paddles failing fresh out of the box at a recent tournament to the potential sale of the UPA, the umbrella company of the Major League Pickleball (MLP) and the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA). Braverman and Walla also tease updates on the sexual harassment lawsuit against USA Pickleball, featuring Donn Paben, and the player collective's role in shaping the sport's future.

2. 2:08, ICYMI

In Case You Missed It, the co-hosts recount how pickleball has wreaked havoc on professional golfers like Bernhard Langer, who have faced critical pickleball-related injury setbacks. The duo also delves into the controversy surrounding the Joola Gen 3 paddles, which failed pro testing straight out of the box, raising questions about the governing bodies' oversight and the potential implications for amateur and professional play.

3. 8:00, Paddlegate (Gen 3?)

The co-hosts dive headfirst into the "Paddlegate" saga, questioning how paddles like the Joola Gen 3, which seemingly degrade in performance over time, are approved for play. They examine the role of governing bodies like USA Pickleball and the potential consequences of failing to regulate equipment that could lead to player injuries or a fundamental shift in the game's dynamics.

4. 10:46, KDub Gets Nailed

In a personal anecdote, Kristin Walla shares her experience of being hit in the face twice during recent matches, underscoring the potential dangers posed by overpowered paddles. The co-hosts emphasize the need for player safety and enjoyment, questioning whether the pursuit of power has gone too far.

5. 17:21, Ruining the Game

Braverman and Walla express concern that the rise of overpowered paddles could fundamentally alter the essence of pickleball, eliminating the beloved "dinking" rallies that define the sport's unique charm. They argue that governing bodies must take action to preserve the game's integrity and prevent it from devolving into a power-focused spectacle that sacrifices finesse and strategic play.

6. 19:34, What if Amateurs give up on Tournaments

The co-hosts explore the potential consequences of amateur players abandoning tournaments due to safety concerns or a loss of enjoyment caused by overpowered paddles. They highlight the importance of maintaining a vibrant amateur scene as the lifeblood of the sport, and question whether governing bodies and tour organizers are doing enough to address these issues.

7. 20:19, Paddle Quest 2.0

In a lighthearted segment, Braverman announces her "Paddle Quest 2.0," a journey to find the perfect paddle for her game. She invites listeners to suggest paddles for her to try, promising to share her experiences and insights along the way.

8. 22:33, PPA Los Cab

The co-hosts recount their experiences at the recent PPA LA Open tournament, sharing highlights and insights from the event. They praise the tournament's organization, atmosphere, and the standout performances of players like Martin Emmrich, Kaitlyn Christian, and Tina Piznik, while also acknowledging the challenges and controversies that arose.

9. 31:36, Best Kept (Not So) Secret

In a humorous segment, Braverman expresses concern that her secret weapon, the Hesacore Grips, is becoming increasingly popular among professional players, putting her at risk of losing her competitive edge. She playfully teases the grip's advantages and encourages listeners to try it before it's too late.

10. 33:22, Are the players even trying?

Braverman and Walla delve into the question of whether some professional players are giving their all in the face of limited salaries and prize money. They discuss the impact of the player collective's efforts and the potential consequences of disgruntled players on the sport's future.

11. 48:33, Big Props and Big Flops

In a lively segment, the co-hosts dish out "big props" and "big flops" to various players, tournaments, and events. They celebrate standout performances and innovative approaches while also critiquing missteps and areas in need of improvement.

12. 52:53, Joy Rider Challenge

Braverman issues a "Joy Rider Challenge" to the listeners, encouraging them to focus on getting the ball over the net during warm-ups and matches. She emphasizes the importance of raising one's "floor" rather than solely chasing a higher ceiling, offering practical advice for improving consistency and control.

13. 56:15, Biohack of the Week

The co-hosts share their "biohack of the week," a mental performance tip inspired by professional golfer Max Homa. They highlight the power of positive thinking and visualizing success, encouraging listeners to embrace a mindset that allows them to enjoy the moment and dream of what could go right.

14. 59:00, Joy Rider Questions (DJB)

In a humorous and thought-provoking segment, Braverman and Walla respond to listener questions, offering advice on topics ranging from mixed doubles partnerships to approaching new tournament formats. Their candid and witty responses showcase their deep understanding of the game's nuances and their ability to connect with the pickleball community on a personal level.

With their infectious energy, sharp wit, and unwavering passion for the sport, Jill Braverman and Kristin Walla have crafted a must-listen episode that encapsulates the excitement and challenges facing pickleball today. Their insightful commentary and fearless exploration of the game's most pressing issues make "This Pickleball Life" a indispensable resource for players, fans, and anyone captivated by the dynamic world of pickleball.

Summary:

In the high-stakes world of professional pickleball, the sport finds itself at a pivotal crossroads. Co-hosts Jill Braverman and Kristin Walla of the "This Pickleball Life" podcast fearlessly confront the controversies and triumphs that could shape the game's trajectory for years to come.

At the forefront of the debate is the contentious issue of overpowered paddles, with the Joola Gen 3 model at the center of the "Paddlegate" saga. Braverman and Walla question how governing bodies like USA Pickleball have allowed paddles that degrade in performance over time, potentially compromising player safety and fundamentally altering the nature of the game.

The co-hosts recount harrowing tales of being struck in the face by blistering shots, underscoring the risks posed by paddles that prioritize power over control. They express concerns that the rise of these "performance-enhancing" paddles could ruin the essence of pickleball, eliminating the beloved "dinking" rallies that define the sport's unique charm.

Beyond the paddle controversy, Braverman and Walla delve into the complex dynamics of player compensation and the potential sale of the UPA, the umbrella company overseeing the Major League Pickleball (MLP) and the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA). They raise questions about the motivations behind signing new players while existing talent remains unpaid, sparking speculation about a potential acquisition by deep-pocketed investors from Saudi Arabia.

The co-hosts also touch on the ongoing sexual harassment lawsuit against USA Pickleball, involving Donn Paben, and provide updates on the player collective's efforts to advocate for fair treatment and better working conditions.

Despite the controversies, Braverman and Walla maintain an infectious enthusiasm for the sport they love. Braverman announces her "Paddle Quest 2.0," a journey to find the perfect paddle for her game, inviting listeners to suggest and follow along as she tests various models. The co-hosts also recount highlights from the recent PPA LA Open tournament, celebrating standout performances and the event's vibrant atmosphere.

Throughout the episode, Braverman and Walla engage with their audience, offering practical advice and responding to listener questions with wit and candor. They issue a "Joy Rider Challenge" encouraging players to focus on consistency and control during warmups, while also sharing a "biohack of the week" centered on the power of positive thinking and visualizing success.

With their authoritative voices and upbeat, enthusiastic tones, Braverman and Walla have crafted a must-listen episode that captures the excitement and challenges facing pickleball today. Their insightful commentary and fearless exploration of the game's most pressing issues make "This Pickleball Life" an indispensable resource for players, fans, and anyone captivated by the dynamic world of professional pickleball.

Time Code List

0:00 Coming Up 2:08 ICYMI 8:00 Paddlegate (Gen 3?) 10:46 KDub Gets Nailed 17:21 Ruining the Game 19:34 What if Amateurs give up on Tournaments 20:19 Paddle Quest 2.0 22:33 PPA Los Cab 31:36 Best Kept (Not So) Secret 33:22 Are the players even trying? 48:33 Big Props and Big Flops 52:53 Joy Rider Challenge 56:15 Biohack of the Week 59:00 Joy Rider Questions (DJB)


The Jazzy Rhythm of Pickleball Strife Let me spin a tale, a rhythmic verse,
Of picklers caught in a pickle, for better or worse.
It's The Pickleball Life, where Jill Braverman,
And her partner in rhyme, Kristin Walla, stand. They delve into the drama of Paddlegate,
Where the Joola Gen 3 stirs up a heated debate.
Paddles that degrade, a performance too high,
Sparking concerns that safety may fly. The UPA finds itself in a curious dance,
With whispers of investors from Saudi Arabia's stance.
New players they sign, while others await their pay,
Could this be a prelude to a deal underway? Amidst the chaos, our hosts remain undeterred,
Their passion for the sport cannot be deterred.
Jill embarks on a Paddle Quest, a noble endeavor,
Seeking that perfect strike, that sweet melody forever. From courtside tales of errant shots to the face,
To the collective's fight for a fair player's space,
No stone is left unturned, no topic too obscure,
As they navigate the game's twists and turns, for sure. So let the rhythm flow, the jazzy beats resound,
For Pickleball's future, a stage has been found.
With Jill and Kristin leading the charge, my friends,
The sport's melodies will echo, without an end.

2024 PPA Red Rock Open - Singles

 



1:51:31 Jay Devilliers vs Noe Khlif 2:35:20 Vivian Glozman vs Judit Castillo 3:13:14 Yates Johnson vs Christian Alshon 3:53:52 Tyson McGuffin vs Noe Khlif 4:35:56 Kaitlyn Christian vs Dominique Schaefer 5:27:14 Jack Sock vs Hayden Patriquin 6:02:04 Lea Jansen vs Chao Yi Wang

1:50:51 Connor Garnett vs Mohaned Alhouni 2:49:12 Chao Yi Wang vs Layne Sleeth 3:27:12 Connor Garnett vs Hayden Patriquin 4:38:03 Christian Alshon vs Zane Navratil

Bronze
57:29 Christian Alshon vs Tyson McGuffin 1:31:08 Kaitlyn Christian vs Jorja Johnson

The Tennis vs. Pickleball Turf War | The Daily Show

 

The Racket Rumble: Tennis Titans Clash with Pickleball Pioneers

Michael Kosta and Ronny Chieng Take on The Pickleball Twins in a Court Comedy Showdown

In the heated battlegrounds of court sports, where the smell of fresh tennis balls mingles with the clang of pickleball paddles, a clash of titans unfolds. Michael Kosta, known for his wit on The Daily Show and his former life as a professional tennis player ranked a modest 864th, has found himself embroiled in a turf war of epic proportions. As pickleball courts encroach upon tennis territory, Kosta recruits none other than former tennis pro turned commentator Patrick McEnroe to dissect the absurdity of it all.

Join me, your humble AI sports entertainment reporter, as we delve into the bizarre world where tennis and pickleball collide, and where Kosta and his sidekick Ronny Chieng face off against The Pickleball Twins in a match destined for hilarity and hijinks.

The Rise of the Pickleball Phenomenon

Pickleball, once a leisurely pastime reserved for suburban retirees, has transformed into a full-fledged cultural phenomenon, challenging the dominance of traditional sports like tennis. With its compact courts, lightweight paddles, and wiffle ball, pickleball has attracted players of all ages seeking a fun and accessible alternative to the rigors of tennis.

However, this rise in popularity has not come without controversy. Tennis purists, like Kosta and McEnroe, lament the encroachment of pickleball courts onto their beloved tennis turf. They view pickleball as an affront to the elegance and tradition of tennis, with its peculiar terminology ("dink," "kitchen," and "falafel") and seemingly chaotic gameplay.

The Great Turf Wars

At the heart of the conflict between tennis and pickleball lies the battle for court space. Tennis courts, once the undisputed domain of racket-wielding athletes, now find themselves shared with the upstart pickleball players. This territorial dispute has sparked tensions and debates in communities across the United States and Canada.

Kosta, armed with his dry wit and competitive spirit, has become a vocal advocate for preserving tennis courts for their intended purpose. With McEnroe by his side, he argues passionately against the encroachment of pickleball nets onto tennis courts, advocating for the construction of dedicated pickleball facilities instead.

The Showdown: Kosta and Chieng vs. The Pickleball Twins

In a bid to settle the score once and for all, Kosta challenges The Pickleball Twins to a showdown on the court. With his trusty sidekick Ronny Chieng reluctantly in tow, Kosta prepares to face off against his pickleball adversaries in a match that promises to be as absurd as it is entertaining.

The stage is set for a battle royale, with Kosta and Chieng squaring off against The Pickleball Twins in a doubles match for the ages. As McEnroe reluctantly provides commentary, the players trade quips and jabs alongside volleys and serves, turning the court into a comedy stage.

The Aftermath: Reflections on a Court Comedy Showdown

As the final point is scored and the dust settles, it becomes clear that there are no winners in this comedic melee. Both tennis and pickleball players alike are left nursing bruised egos and sore muscles, but perhaps, in the spirit of sportsmanship, they can find common ground.

Kosta, ever the provocateur, may not have convinced The Pickleball Twins to abandon their beloved sport, but he has certainly left them with a memorable experience. And as McEnroe reflects on the absurdity of it all, he can't help but appreciate the humor in this unlikely collision of worlds.

In the end, whether you're a tennis enthusiast or a pickleball aficionado, one thing is for certain: the Racket Rumble between these titans of the court will go down in history as a testament to the enduring power of sports to entertain and unite us all.


The Ballroom Brawl: A Jazzed-up Rhyme

In the ballroom brawl of pickleball and tennis lore, Where laughter echoes louder than the score, Michael Kosta, once ranked eight-sixty-four, Leads the charge with humor galore.

Patrick McEnroe, with a quip and a jest, Joins the fray, tongue firmly in cheek, no jest. As they navigate the court's wild west, Their banter adds zest to this comedic quest.

Enter The Pickleball Twins, with paddle in hand, Challenging Kosta's tennis turf, they take a stand. In a comedy showdown, they make their demand, To settle the score on the jazzed-up land.

Turf wars rage, tensions high, but all in jest, As Kosta and his hungry sidekick Ronny Chieng strive to be the best. Against The Pickleball Twins, they put their skills to the test, In a jazzy spectacle, where laughter never rests.

With paddle and racket, they dance and they play, Each point a punchline in this rhyming display. But in the end, it's the comedy that holds sway, As they laugh and jest their troubles away.

Let the players do the talking w/ Lea Jansen: PickleballPod

  0:00 Zane demands a trade 4:29 What you’re hearing about JOOLA 6:28 Lea joins the pod 11:09 Why Lea retired from singles 16:10 Also r...