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Cricketing legend Steve Smith invests in Major League Pickleball Australia team, the Sydney Smash, joins ownership group

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  • Cricketing legend Steve Smith secures ownership in Major League Pickleball Australia team “Sydney Smash”
  • First of the professional MLP Australia teams to have formal ownership
  • MLP Australia Season One 2024 kicks off in Sydney, 23-25 February

SYDNEY, Feb. 1, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Former Australian cricket captain, Steve Smith, has secured ownership rights of the Sydney Smash, a professional pickleball team in Major League Pickleball Australia.

Smith, widely regarded as one of cricket’s greatest in the history of the sport, said his investment in the Sydney Smash is a testament to his belief in the potential of pickleball as an emerging global sport. “I was drawn to pickleball for its incredible power to connect people. With the Sydney Smash, I hope to bring my experience in professional sports to help support the team and elevate the sport.”

Coming into its second year, Major League Pickleball Australia, the official professional pickleball league of Australia, boasts a prize pool of over $700,000 across six events in Australia, New Zealand and Asia. The league features twelve professional teams, showcasing the top players in the region, complemented by international talents. The opening event for 2024 is scheduled from February 23rd to 25th in Sydney.

The Sydney Smash, under the leadership of seasoned Captain Mitch Hargreaves, is a formidable team, having triumphed at their home event in 2023. Their recent success positions them as strong contenders in the upcoming season.

Adam Thompson, CEO of MLP Australia, commented on Smith’s involvement, “Steve’s engagement with the Sydney Smash is a game-changer for pickleball in Australia and beyond. His vision and expertise are invaluable assets that will significantly boost the sport’s national and international presence.”

Smith joins Australia’s leading racquet sports venue operator and coaching provider Voyager Tennis in the ownership consortium. Anthony Liveris, President of MLP Australia, added, “We are thrilled to partner with Voyager and their world class team of coaches and racquet sports venues. This ownership group represents the very best of Sydney pickleball.”

The opening event of the season is scheduled for 23rd to 25th February in Sydney at Blacktown Tennis Centre.

For more information, visit pacificpickleball.com.au or contact the MLP Australia Communications Director.

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About Major League Pickleball Australia and Pacific Pickleball:

Pacific Pickleball is the official Professional Pickleball League of Australia featuring the top players, highest prize money, and best events across Australia, New Zealand, and Asia. Pacific Pickleball offers two formats for athletes including Major League Pickleball Australia’s (MLP Australia’s) Pro Teams Format, and Pacific Pickleball League’s (PPL) Pro Tour Format for both Open and Masters 50+ Athletes, in partnership with Pickleball Australia Association (PAA). Pacific Pickleball aims to grow the total number of Pickleball players in APAC to 1 Million in 2032 by promoting the sport through world-class events, professional pathways for top players, dedicated pickleball venues, and strong partnerships at international, national and grassroot levels; on a journey to bring Pickleball to all.

SOURCE Pacific Pickleball

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2024 National Pickleball League Season Insights with Michael Chen

“Explore the 2024 National Pickleball League season with Michael Chen, co-founder, on the Sleeves Senior Pickleball Report.”

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balls and checkered paddles. National Pickleball League
Photo by Lindsey Flynn on Pexels.com

In the latest episode of the Sleeves Senior Pickleball Report, host Mike Sleeves Sliwa delves into the heart of the sport with an exclusive interview featuring Michael Chen, co-founder of the National Pickleball League. Titled “People of Pickleball,” this episode offers an insightful look into the upcoming 2024 season and the exciting developments within the sport. As the conversation unfolds, listeners gain a deeper understanding of the league’s vision, upcoming tournaments, and the impact on the pickleball community at large.

2024 National Pickleball League Season Insights | Michael Chen Interview

The engaging dialogue between Sliwa and Chen captures the essence of the sport, offering valuable insights for both seasoned players and newcomers. From discussing competitive strategies to the influence of pickleball on local communities, the episode provides a comprehensive view of the sport’s evolution. Whether you’re an avid player or simply pickleball-curious, this episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the game.

National Pickleball League

https://www.nplpickleball.com


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Hey, “People of Pickleball” fans! Looking for some great deals on the latest pickleball gear and services? We’ve got you covered! Just head over to this link for exclusive discounts crafted just for our listeners. Don’t miss out on elevating your game with top-notch pickleball essentials at amazing prices!

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Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report

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  • Michael J Sliwa

    Over the past few years, Mike has become an insane pickleballer (pickler), fortunately for the senior 50+ crowd he started his show, Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report. He spends the rest of his time speaking on social justice and spending time with his beautiful wife, Karen, and enjoying simple living in his ger/yurt. View all posts


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Senior Pickleball Report

The Boca Raton Picklers: A Powerhouse in the National Pickleball League

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Boca Raton Picklers
Image Credit: NPL

As the second season of the National Pickleball League unfolds, one team has emerged as a beacon of consistency and excellence—the Boca Raton Picklers. After finishing third in last season’s playoffs, the Picklers entered this season with a strong sense of momentum, and they did not disappoint their fans.

With the strategic addition of two top senior champions, Mircea Morariu and Kara Williams, the Picklers not only dominated the regular season but also clinched the coveted title in the playoffs. Their performances have been nothing short of spectacular, showcasing not just skill but also the camaraderie and teamwork that have become hallmarks of the Boca Raton Picklers.

Morariu and Williams, both seasoned pros in the senior division, brought a wealth of experience and tactical prowess to the team. Their presence on the court has energized the Picklers, elevating the performance of their teammates and instilling a winning mentality throughout the roster. Fans have witnessed some thrilling matches as the Picklers demonstrated their ability to adapt and overcome challenges, solidifying their status as a formidable force in the league.

The culmination of their hard work and dedication came during the playoffs, where the Boca Raton Picklers showcased their talent and resilience. As they battled through the competition, it became clear that they were not just in it to participate; they were determined to win. Their journey through the playoffs was marked by impressive teamwork, strategic plays, and an unwavering commitment to excellence, ultimately leading them to claim the championship title.

Looking ahead, significant changes are on the horizon for the Boca Raton Picklers, as the league adopts a redrafting system that will significantly alter rosters from season to season. For the upcoming season, teams are currently deliberating on whether they will be allowed to retain a player or two, adding an intriguing twist to team dynamics in the league. This means that while the Picklers’ current roster is brimming with talent, the composition may shift considerably, impacting not just the team but the league as a whole.

The excitement continues with upcoming interviews featuring the owners of the top three finishers from this season, set to be released in early December. These insights will provide a closer look at the strategies and decisions that shaped this thrilling season, and the passion that drives these teams.

Additionally, fans won’t want to miss the finals, which will be broadcast on CBS Sports. This will be an opportunity to witness the culmination of a season filled with hard-fought matches, remarkable performances, and unforgettable moments.

In conclusion, the Boca Raton Picklers have proven themselves as a powerhouse in the National Pickleball League. With their newfound championship title and a roster that experienced a stellar performance this season, they are poised for continued success—though the future may bring changes that will shape their journey. Stay tuned for more updates and interviews as we celebrate the spirit of pickleball and the incredible athletes who make it all possible!

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Related Links:

https://www.nplpickleball.com

https://www.nplpickleball.com/boca-raton-picklers

Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/


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Senior Pickleball Report

Unleashing Joy on the Court: A Talk with Stacey Cleary of 4Joy Paddles

In the latest People of Pickleball Podcast, Stacey Cleary shares her inspiring journey from pandemic play to founding 4Joy Paddles, merging art, community, and philanthropy through pickleball.

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4Joy Paddles

The latest episode of the People of Pickleball Podcast is one for the books! Host Mike Sleeves Sliwa sits down with the incredibly talented Stacey Cleary, the owner and founder of 4Joy Paddles. If you’re looking for a fresh perspective on pickleball and creativity on the court, you won’t want to miss this episode!

Stacey’s Journey to Pickleball and Beyond

Stacey’s story is one of resilience and inspiration. Like many of us, she found her love for the game during the pandemic. Originally starting to play in the summer of 2020, Stacey discovered that pickleball was more than just a sport; it was a way to connect with others when social distancing was the norm.

As a teacher navigating remote learning, Stacey found a cathartic escape in pickleball. Although wearing masks and “tapping paddles” instead of shaking hands felt strange, it allowed her to meet new people and relish the joy of movement. During this transformative time, she also dabbled in digital art, which ultimately laid the groundwork for the creation of her stunning paddles.

Watch the Episode: From Passion to Philanthropy: Stacey Cleary on 4Joy Paddles & Pickleball

The Birth of 4Joy Paddles

What began as a passion project became 4Joy Paddles, a company with a mission to deliver high-quality, artistically eye-catching pickleball paddles. Based in Connecticut, 4Joy embraces the vibrant spirit of the pickleball community by combining uniqueness with philanthropy. As Stacey shares in the podcast, “We play for joy,” and that ethos drives the entire brand.

Stacey strives to ensure that every paddle is a conversation starter on the court. Listeners can hear how she meticulously crafts each design, pouring her artistic talents into paddles that not only work wonderfully but are also visually striking.

More Than Just Paddles: A Philanthropic Mission

But 4Joy is not just about creating beautiful paddles; there’s a deeper mission behind the brand. Stacey discusses her commitment to support various health organizations, donating a portion of their profits to causes like the Cure Alzheimer’s Fund, the American Cancer Society, Susan G. Komen, and the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance. These choices stem from her personal experiences and the connections she shares with these causes.

As an individual who has faced significant health challenges herself, including a diagnosis of a benign brain tumor, Stacey reflects on how her experiences have shaped her values and mission.

Why You Should Listen

This podcast episode resonates on many levels—it’s about love for pickleball, creativity, and meaningful actions that contribute back to society. If you’re passionate about pickleball, design, or community-building, Stacey’s insights will inspire you to look at your paddle—and the game itself—in a whole new light.

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Join Mike and Stacey for an engaging conversation that dives deep into the vibrant world of pickleball, the art of designing paddles, and the importance of giving back to the community. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just curious about the game, this episode offers nuggets of wisdom that apply to everyone.

You can catch this enlightening conversation on YouTube or listen to the audio version on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon, and other platforms. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear Stacey’s journey and discover the colorful world of 4Joy Paddles!

Are you ready to bring more joy into your pickleball game? Check out the podcast episode, and let Stacey be your guide to a more vibrant, joyful experience on the court!

Visit our podcast website for more episodes: https://sleeves-spr-people-of-pickleball.castos.com/

4Joy

https://4joypaddles.com

Discount code: Sleeves15 for 15% off

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Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/

Hey, “People of Pickleball” fans! Looking for some great deals on the latest pickleball gear and services? We’ve got you covered! Just head over to this link https://stm-store.online/spr-episode-links/  for exclusive discounts crafted just for our listeners. Don’t miss out on elevating your game with top-notch pickleball essentials at amazing prices! https://stm-store.online/spr-episode-links

Tune in every week for engaging conversations, expert interviews, and the latest news in the pickleball world. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave us a review to help us grow the community!

**Follow us on social media:**

SPR on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?...

SPR on WEB https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-seni...

SPR on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/seniorpickl...

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