Showing posts with label APP. Show all posts
Showing posts with label APP. Show all posts

Monday, September 9, 2024

2024 APP Chicago Open - Can Simone Jardim Take Down Megan Fudge?

 

0:00 Old Photos Women's Singles 2:59 Megan Fudge vs. Simone Jardim Men's Singles 7:40 Chris Haworth vs. Grayson Goldin Men's Doubles 10:05 Will Howells/CJ Klinger vs. Eric Lange/Max Manthou 12:21 Cat Tail 13:32 Jack Munro/Rob Nunnery vs Will Howells/CJ Klinger Mixed Doubles 17:28 Mari Humberg/Eric Oncins vs Will Howells/Yana Newell Women's Doubles 19:32 Bobbi Oshiro/Susannah Barr vs Jill Braverman/Megan Fudge 21:41 Bobbi Oshiro/Susannah Barr vs Amanda Hendry/Mari Humberg

Sunday, September 1, 2024

Friday, August 9, 2024

2024 English Open

 

Day 1 - Singles

4:41:11 Jack Munro vs Mateusz Matysik

Day 2 - Gender Doubles

2:48:40 Richard Livornese Jr./Jack Munro vs Theo Platel/Julien Platel 3:58:45 Richard Livornese Jr./Jack Munro vs Daniel Wren/Alex Woolf 6:02:13 Megan Fudge/Susannah Barr vs Alexa Schull/Mary Monson 8:06:46 Megan Fudge/Susannah Barr vs Roos Van Reek/Kaitlynn Hart 10:40:18 Richard Livornese Jr./Jack Munro vs Erik Lange/Max Purple Jesus Mathou

Day 3 - Mixed Doubles

15:37 Jack Munro/Megan Fudge vs Mollie Knaggs/Peter Hitchman 7:42:33 Jack Munro/Megan Fudge vs Alexa Schull/Jayden Broderick 8:14:36 Lilly (9) and JR (7) DeHeart Warm-up 9:53:27 Jack Munro/Megan Fudge vs Lauren Mercado/Spencer Lanier 11:28:42 Jack Munro/Megan Fudge vs Allison Harris/Erik Lange

2024 English Open Results (Search Player Name)

Munro and Fudge Triumph in Thrilling English Open Mixed Doubles Semi-Final

Experience Prevails as Munro/Fudge Overcome Early Deficit to Secure Final Berth

Introduction: In a captivating semi-final match at the 2024 English Open, the mixed doubles pairing of Jack Munro and Megan Fudge showcased their resilience and skill to overcome Lauren Mercado and Spencer Lanier in a three-game thriller. The contest, filled with momentum shifts and high-level play, ultimately saw the more experienced duo of Munro and Fudge secure their place in the final.

9:53:27 Jack Munro/Megan Fudge vs Lauren Mercado/Spencer Lanier

Game 1 (11-7 to Mercado/Lanier)

Highlights:

  • 9:53:38 - Spencer Lanier executes a successful Bert (volley in front of partner)
  • 9:56:51 - Jack Munro demonstrates ambidextrous play with a right-handed smash
  • 9:59:51 - Spencer Lanier hits his second Bert of the game
  • 10:08:07 - Spectacular rally ends with a net cord, drawing cheers from the audience

Summary: Mercado and Lanier started strong, with Lanier's aggressive net play and strategic Berts giving them an early advantage. Despite Munro's versatile play, including ambidextrous shots, the first game went to Mercado/Lanier with a score of 11-7.

Game 2 (11-2 to Munro/Fudge)

Highlights:

  • 10:17:34 - Spencer Lanier hits his third Bert of the match
  • 10:19:42 - Jack Munro and Megan Fudge take a commanding 3-0 lead
  • 10:22:23 - Munro executes a well-placed speed-up shot down the line
  • 10:24:40 - Fudge demonstrates experience, working Lanier side to side along the kitchen line

Summary: Munro and Fudge bounced back emphatically in the second game. Their strategic play and Fudge's experience in working the kitchen line proved crucial. Lanier's attempts to switch hands and vary his play were less effective, leading to a decisive 11-2 victory for Munro/Fudge.

Game 3 (11-7 to Munro/Fudge)

Highlights:

  • 10:40:57 - Jack Munro executes a successful around-the-post shot
  • 10:51:55 - Signs of fatigue appear as Lanier shows hints of cramping
  • 10:55:02 - Fudge and Munro display quick reactions in speed-up exchanges
  • 10:56:16 - Lanier regains mobility, becoming more active at the net
  • 10:58:24 - Match point won on a foot fault by Lanier

The deciding game was a tense affair with both teams showing signs of fatigue. Lanier briefly struggled with cramps but recovered to keep the game close. However, Munro and Fudge's experience shone through in crucial moments. The match ended dramatically on a foot fault by Lanier, giving Munro and Fudge the victory with a score of 11-7.

Article Summary: The 2024 English Open Mixed Doubles Semi-Final between Jack Munro/Megan Fudge and Lauren Mercado/Spencer Lanier was a showcase of high-level pickleball. After losing the first game 11-7, Munro and Fudge staged a remarkable comeback, dominating the second game 11-2 and clinching the third 11-7. The match highlighted the importance of experience, adaptability, and mental toughness in competitive pickleball. Munro's ambidextrous play and Fudge's strategic kitchen line work were key factors in their victory. Despite a strong start and impressive net play from Lanier, Mercado and Lanier couldn't maintain their early momentum. The win secures Munro and Fudge a spot in the final against Allison Harris and Eric Lang, setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to the English Open Mixed Doubles event.


Monday, August 5, 2024

2024 APP Newport Beach: Team Youtube VS The #1 Seed

 

Match Breakdown - APP Newport Beach Open Round 2
Tanner Tomassi/Kyle Koszuta vs Rob Nunnery/Erik Pailet

Wednesday, July 17, 2024

What Paddle Should You Play With? | Ep.20 Alix Truong

 

Rising Star Alix Truong Talks Pickleball Journey, Training, and Partnerships

The 19-year-old phenom discusses her move to Utah, transition to pro tours, and quest for pickleball excellence

In the rapidly evolving world of professional pickleball, few stories are as captivating as that of Alix Truong. At just 19 years old, Truong has already made significant waves in the sport, transitioning from the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) tour to the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) circuit with remarkable poise and skill. In a candid and insightful interview on the "Conversations With DJ" podcast, Truong opened up about her journey, sharing the challenges and triumphs that have marked her ascent in the pickleball ranks.

From her bold decision to move to Utah to pursue her pickleball dreams, to navigating the complexities of professional partnerships and training regimens, Truong's story is one of determination, adaptability, and unwavering passion for the game. Her experiences offer a unique window into the life of a rising star in a sport that continues to captivate audiences and athletes alike. As Truong continues to hone her skills and make her mark on the professional circuit, her journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring players and a testament to the exciting future of pickleball.

1. Being able to play with better players after moving, 00:03:00,

  • Transition from APP to the PPA
  • Challenges in finding practice partners in Utah
  • Importance of proving oneself on the pro circuit

Alix Truong's move to Utah marked a significant turning point in her pickleball career. Initially facing difficulties in integrating with the established Utah pickleball community, Truong persevered through the challenges of being an APP player in a PPA-dominated environment. Her coach, Jason Perry, advised her to make the switch to PPA tournaments to gain recognition and acceptance among top players. This transition proved crucial, as Truong began to receive warmer welcomes and more practice opportunities with elite players like Allyce Jones and Callie Smith after joining the PPA circuit.

2. Getting Hooked up With Engage, 00:05:55,

  • Transition from Gamma to Engage paddles
  • Meeting with Engage representatives at Daytona APP tournament
  • Signing with Engage alongside Hunter Johnson and Hayden Patriquin

Truong's partnership with Engage paddles came at a pivotal moment in her career. After her contract with Gamma ended, she briefly experimented with other brands before connecting with Engage representatives at a Daytona APP tournament. The timing coincided with fellow players Hunter Johnson and Hayden Patriquin also seeking new paddle sponsorships. Impressed by their performance, Engage signed all three players, officially launching their partnership at the US Open in April 2023. This sponsorship marked a significant step in Truong's professional career, providing her with cutting-edge equipment to support her competitive aspirations.

3. Playing with the Best Paddle on the Market, 00:08:10,

  • Discussion of paddle preferences among top players
  • Speculation about Anna Leigh Waters' paddle specifications
  • Importance of finding the right paddle for individual playing styles

The conversation shifted to the equipment choices of top players, particularly focusing on Anna Leigh Waters' dominant performance with her paddle. Truong discussed the various factors that influence paddle selection, including core materials, surface textures, and personal preferences. She emphasized the importance of finding a paddle that complements a player's style, noting that while some players prefer softer paddles for control, others opt for more power-oriented models. Truong also touched on the rumors surrounding custom paddles for top pros, highlighting the complex relationship between equipment, skill, and performance in professional pickleball.

4. Surprise MLP Pick, 00:13:57,

  • Anxiety leading up to the Major League Pickleball (MLP) draft
  • Unexpected last-minute change in draft picks
  • Emotional rollercoaster of being selected as the 48th pick

Truong's experience with the MLP draft was a dramatic and emotional one. Initially believing she might be selected by a Utah-based team due to her recent move and connections, she found herself anxiously monitoring the draft process. In a surprising turn of events, Truong was nearly selected earlier in the draft, only to have the pick changed at the last moment. The emotional roller coaster continued as she waited through 47 picks before finally being selected. This experience highlighted the intense pressure and uncertainty faced by young players in the professional pickleball world, as well as the resilience required to navigate such high-stakes situations.

5. Finding PPA Partners, 00:24:30,

  • Challenges of finding partners as a newcomer to the PPA tour
  • Partnerships with Collin Johns and Tammy Emmrich
  • Importance of chemistry and shared goals in doubles partnerships

As a newcomer to the PPA tour, Truong faced the challenge of finding consistent doubles partners. She described her approach of reaching out to players without established partnerships, leading to her first PPA tournament pairing with Collin Johns. Truong also highlighted her partnership with Tammy Emmrich, emphasizing the importance of not only playing well together but also sharing similar goals and work ethics. She stressed the need for partners who are serious about improving and building their brand through strong performances, rather than those content with simply showing up and collecting appearance fees.

6. Training Routine, 00:31:00,

  • Detailed daily training schedule in Utah
  • Emphasis on balanced workout routines combining gym and on-court sessions
  • Importance of recovery and utilizing facilities like Lifetime Fitness

Truong provided insight into her rigorous training routine, which typically involves 2-3 hours in the gym daily, seven days a week. Her workouts, programmed by a personal trainer, alternate between lifting days and on-court agility and footwork sessions. Truong emphasized the importance of recovery, detailing her use of Lifetime Fitness facilities for cryotherapy, hydro massage, and other recovery methods. She also described her on-court training, which involves sessions with coach Jason Perry and various practice partners across different locations in Utah, demonstrating her commitment to continuous improvement and versatility in her training approach.

7. Ideal Training Partners, 00:41:20,

  • Qualities sought in doubles partners
  • Balance between fun and business-oriented partnerships
  • Importance of trust and complementary playing styles

When discussing ideal training and competition partners, Truong emphasized the importance of finding a balance between enjoyable, lighthearted partnerships and those focused on serious improvement and success. She highlighted trust as a crucial factor, noting that it's often easier to establish with male partners due to their typically laid-back approach. For women's doubles, Truong stressed the importance of compatible playing styles and the ability to work together as a team, both on and off the court. She cited her partnership with Connor Garnett as an example of an ideal collaboration, combining positive energy with a shared commitment to improvement and success.

8. Future Aspirations and Excitement for Upcoming Tournaments, 00:46:32,

  • Looking forward to new tournament locations
  • Enthusiasm for competing in Utah with home crowd support
  • Continuous improvement and learning from each tournament experience

As Truong looks to the future, she expressed excitement for upcoming tournaments, particularly those in new locations she hasn't yet experienced on the pro tour. She highlighted her anticipation for playing in Utah, eager to perform in front of a supportive home crowd. Truong's enthusiasm for travel and competition remains high, demonstrating her passion for the sport and her career. She emphasized the value of each tournament as a learning experience, using post-match analysis and feedback from her coach, Jason Perry, to continually refine her game. This forward-looking attitude and commitment to improvement underscore Truong's potential as a rising star in the pickleball world.

In conclusion, Alix Truong's journey in professional pickleball is a testament to the sport's growing appeal and the opportunities it presents for young, talented athletes. Her experiences navigating the transition from amateur to pro tours, building partnerships, and developing a professional training regimen offer valuable insights into the challenges and rewards of pursuing a career in this rapidly evolving sport. As Truong continues to hone her skills and make her mark on the professional circuit, her story serves as an inspiration to aspiring players and a glimpse into the bright future of pickleball. With her dedication, adaptability, and passion for the game, Truong is well-positioned to become a leading figure in the sport for years to come. 

Time Code List

00:00:00 Introduction 00:03:00 Being able to play with better players after moving. 00:05:55 Getting Hooked up With Engage 00:08:10 Playing with the Best Paddle on the Market 00:13:57 Surprise MLP Pick 00:24:30 Finding PPA Partners 00:31:00 Training Routine 00:41:20 Ideal Training Partners

Tuesday, July 9, 2024

2024 APP Newport Beach Open: INCREDIBLE Comeback! + HUGE Upsets on NATIONAL TV!

 

0:00 Pickball made it to ESPN Sports Center again Harris/Jardim vs Cederquist/Newell 4:07 Men's Doubles Koszuta/Tomassi vs Howells/Kawka Mick/Munro vs Lange/Manthou Howells/Kawka vs Lange/Manthou 16:02 Women's Doubles Harris/Jardim vs Cederquist/Newell Fudge/Braverman vs Cederquist/Newell 24:16 Men's Singles Haworth vs Cangelosi 27:10 Mixed Doubles Bobbi Oshiro/Will Howells vs Megan Fudge/Jack Munro 31:22 Women's Singles Megan Fudge vs Kate Fahey 37:02 Hooks Of The Week


APP Newport Beach Open Matches On YouTube


Monday, June 10, 2024

Megan Fudge's Triumph and Trials at the APP New York Open

 


Veteran pickleball pro Megan Fudge navigates a week of victories, challenges, and family moments at the APP New York City Open.

NEW YORK — The city that never sleeps bore witness to a whirlwind week for Megan Fudge, the seasoned Association of Pickleball Professionals (APP) Pro, as she chronicled her experience at the 2024 Zimmer Biomet APP New York City Open . From dawn until well past dusk, Fudge balanced the rigors of high-stakes competition with the demands of motherhood, all while providing an engaging glimpse into the life of a top-tier pickleball player.

The eventful week culminated on Sunday night, with Fudge exclaiming, “That's a wrap on New York City! I'm very relieved we are finally over and done with... it was so fun.” Her blog, a vivid tapestry of match highlights, personal reflections, and heartfelt thanks to volunteers and supporters, captured the essence of her journey.

A highlight of Fudge's week was watching her daughter, Lily, secure a gold medal in a nail-biting final. The young duo of Lily, aged nine, and her 12-year-old partner MJ, showcased nerves of steel to clinch victory 15-13. Fudge, alongside MJ’s pro player mother Audrey Banada, could barely contain their excitement and nerves on the sidelines.

Beyond the courts, the atmosphere was electric, with a bustling vendor village and various engaging activities. Fudge noted the popularity of the DIY t-shirt station and the enthusiastic crowd that kept the energy alive throughout the weekend.

Fudge's own competitive spirit shone brightly as she secured the women's triple crown, triumphing in singles, doubles, and the New York Shuffle. Her victory in the Shuffle was particularly sweet, as she relished the chance to adapt and excel in the unique, fast-paced format.

Reflecting on the week, Fudge shared valuable lessons and moments of personal growth. From the chaos of pool play to the semi-final rounds filled with tension and triumph, she demonstrated resilience and a positive mindset. “You can either be a carrot, an egg, or a coffee bean in hot water,” she mused, choosing to be the coffee bean that changes the water around it.

As the tournament concluded, Fudge expressed gratitude to the APP Tour staff, volunteers, and the supportive New York crowd. Her engaging and candid blog posts received enthusiastic feedback, hinting at a potential future in sports writing.

Megan Fudge's week at the New York City Open was a testament to her skill, perseverance, and ability to inspire both on and off the court. As she shifts from pro player to proud mom, her journey continues to captivate and motivate the pickleball community. 

###


Swingin' to the Pickleball Beat

In the jazzy heart of pickleball's tale,
Megan Fudge, she stands so tall, never fails.
The New York City Open, where legends are made,
Her paddle swings like a serenade.

The NY Shuffle, her signature move,
On courts where dreams and talents groove.
Triple Crown dreams, oh, she's aiming high,
With the Association of Pickleball Professionals by her side.

Player Blog tells the journey bold,
Every game a story, every point a goal.
Lily Gold Medal shines in the sun,
A testament to battles lost and won.

15-13, in a nail-biting final,
The crowd erupts, emotions primal.
A proud mom in the stands, eyes glistening bright,
Witnessing the triumphs, the thrilling night.

Through rallies intense and volleys swift,
Megan's game is pure jazz, every stroke a gift.
With every serve, the rhythm's set,
In the world of pickleball, she's the best bet.

The courts of New York, they buzz with delight,
As Megan Fudge plays through day and night.
Her spirit's a melody, her game's a song,
In the heart of the city, she dances strong.

So here's to the champion, with skill profound,
In the world of pickleball, she's renowned.
From the NY Shuffle to the Triple Crown,
Megan Fudge, the role model queen, wears the crown.

With a swing and a sway, she moves with grace,
A rhythm that's hers, setting the pace.
In every match, a story unfolds,
Of a proud mom's joy and medals of gold.

So let the pickleball anthem play on,
With Megan Fudge, the game's paragon.
In the courts of New York, where dreams ignite,
She reigns supreme, the jazzy light.

Monday, May 27, 2024

2024 APP New York Open Jack Munro Crowned Men's Pro Doubles Champion

 

Interview with Jack Munro

In this interview, Jack Munro discusses his performance in a pickleball tournament held in New York City. He reflects on his mindset during the competition, the importance of having fun, and his progress over the past year.


Conclusion

Jack Munro emphasized the significance of staying present and enjoying the game. He highlighted the positive impact of supportive partners and the fun format of the tournament, which helped him perform well. His journey from not qualifying a year ago to winning medals demonstrates his growth and improvement in pickleball.


Key Points

🎾 Mindset: Jack focused on living in the moment and staying point by point during the matches.

🏆 Learning from Experience: He acknowledged that he performs better when he takes the pressure off and just plays the game he knows.

😊 Having Fun: The enjoyable format of the tournament helped Jack play more loosely and effectively.

🤝 Support from Partners: Shifting between partners and their support played a crucial role in his performance.

🥇 Achievement: Jack won a gold medal and the title of Men's Pro Shuffle Champion.

🏙️ Love for NYC: Jack expressed his affection for New York City and its significance in his journey.

📈 Progress: A year ago, Jack didn't qualify for mixed and went 0-2 in men's doubles. This year, he competed successfully and won medals.

👥 Gratitude: He credited Ken for finding and helping him flourish in the sport.

🔄 Shift in Approach: Learning to focus on having fun and reducing pressure contributed to his improved performance.

💪 Resilience: Jack's journey from setbacks to success in just a year highlights his resilience and dedication.

Summary

  1. Mindset during Competition: Jack explained how he kept track of scores but focused on living in the moment and staying point by point.

  2. Learning from Past Experiences: He learned that taking the pressure off helps him perform better.

  3. Importance of Having Fun: Jack emphasized the fun format of the tournament, which allowed him to play more freely.

  4. Support from Partners: The support and ability to shift between partners were crucial in his performance.

  5. Winning Gold: Jack won a gold medal and the title of Men's Pro Shuffle Champion.

  6. Affection for NYC: He expressed his love for New York City and its importance in his journey.

  7. Progress Over the Year: A year ago, he didn't qualify for mixed and had poor results in men's doubles. This year, he won medals.

  8. Gratitude Towards Ken: Jack credited Ken for discovering and helping him improve in the sport.

  9. Focus on Fun and Relaxation: Learning to focus on fun and reducing pressure contributed significantly to his success.

  10. Resilience and Dedication: His journey from setbacks to success in just a year showcases his resilience and dedication.

###

Jack Munro's Interview - Detailed Article

Introduction

In a recent interview, Jack Munro shared his experiences and insights from a pickleball tournament held in New York City. Munro discussed his mindset, the importance of having fun, and his remarkable progress over the past year. This article delves into his journey, strategies, and achievements, providing a comprehensive look at how he navigated his way to success.

Jack Munro's Mindset

Living in the Moment

Jack Munro emphasized the significance of staying present during the competition. When asked about his mentality while exchanging leads with his opponent, William Sobek, Munro explained that he focused on living in the moment and staying point by point. He admitted to being a numbers guy, always trying to keep track of scores, but highlighted the importance of snapping out of that mindset and concentrating on each point as it came.

Lessons Learned

Reflecting on past experiences, Munro acknowledged that he performs better when he takes the pressure off and just plays the game he knows. This lesson was particularly relevant during the tournament, where he learned to let go of the stress and enjoy the game, ultimately enhancing his performance.

The Importance of Having Fun

Enjoyable Format

Munro attributed much of his success to the fun format of the tournament. He expressed his gratitude to Ken for organizing the event, which allowed him to play more loosely and effectively. The enjoyable environment created by the tournament format enabled Jack to stay relaxed and focused, contributing significantly to his success.

Support from Partners

Another critical factor in Jack's performance was the support from his partners. He appreciated the ability to shift between partners, which helped maintain a positive mindset. When either he or his partners were down, they supported each other, creating a collaborative and encouraging atmosphere.

Achievements and Emotions

Winning Gold

One of the most significant achievements for Munro was winning a gold medal and earning the title of Men's Pro Shuffle Champion. This accomplishment was particularly meaningful given his journey over the past year.

Love for New York City

Jack expressed his affection for New York City, highlighting the city's importance in his journey. He shared that a year ago, he didn't even qualify for mixed doubles and went 0-2 in men's doubles. Returning to the city and performing well enough to win medals was a testament to his growth and improvement.

Progress and Gratitude

Year of Improvement

Munro's journey over the past year has been remarkable. From not qualifying and facing setbacks a year ago to winning medals in the current tournament, his progress is a testament to his resilience and dedication. He attributed much of his success to Ken, who discovered him and helped him flourish in the sport.

Shift in Approach

A crucial aspect of Munro's improvement was his shift in approach. Learning to focus on having fun and reducing pressure allowed him to play more freely and effectively. This change in mindset played a significant role in his success.

Quotes

  1. "I'm a numbers guy, so definitely tried to keep track, but it's more so just snapping out of it and living in the moment."

  2. "I am so much better when I take the pressure off and just play the pickleball that I know I'm capable of."

  3. "This format was super fun... I've heard it from every Pro this was phenomenal."

  4. "Partners helped out a lot when I was down or when they were down."

  5. "A year ago, I didn't even qualify for mixed and I went 0-2 in men's doubles."

  6. "Coming here now and actually being able to compete and not only compete but perform well enough to get some medals is definitely huge."

  7. "I owe it a lot to Ken for finding me and helping me flourish."

Conclusion

Jack Munro's interview sheds light on his journey, mindset, and achievements in the pickleball tournament held in New York City. His focus on living in the moment, learning from past experiences, and having fun played crucial roles in his success. Supported by his partners and the enjoyable tournament format, Munro was able to win a gold medal and the title of Men's Pro Shuffle Champion. His progress over the past year demonstrates his resilience, dedication, and the positive impact of a supportive environment.

UPA Firings in Japan Stir Debate as Players Speak Out and Committee President Weighs In

  The dismissals of James Ignatowich, Vivian Glozman, and Ryan Fu ignite questions about contract rules, communication breakdowns, and whet...