Senior Pickleball Report
Discover an Elevated Spring Break Vacation at Four Seasons Resort Orlando
Splash into family fun at the five-acre water park, savor Michelin-starred dining and enjoy Disney connectivity
ORLANDO, Fla. /PRNewswire/ — Spring break is just around the corner, and the warm spring sunshine and heated five-acre waterpark beckons families to enjoy an unforgettable getaway at Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort. Recognized as the No. 1 Best Hotel and No. 1 Best Resort in Walt Disney World according to U.S. News & World Report, marking the ninth consecutive year of being awarded a top ranking, the Resort offers incredible activities for kids of all ages and rejuvenating relaxation for parents. Nestled within 26 sprawling acres of lush Florida woodlands and tranquil lakeside scenery, in addition to the waterpark with lazy river, splash zone, and water slides, Four Seasons Orlando features an all-day complimentary kids club, the only adult pool within Walt Disney World Resort, Michelin-starred rooftop Capa Steakhouse and much more.
Discover an Elevated Spring Break Vacation at Four Seasons Resort Orlando Tweet
Fun In The Sun
Guests of all ages will enjoy discovering “Explorer Island,” the Resort’s expansive water park featuring a winding lazy river with cascading waterfalls, a gradually sloping zero entry family pool, an interactive splash zone, two exhilarating water slides and more. Teens will stay entertained at “The Hideout” featuring the latest gaming systems such as virtual reality, multi-player PAC-MAN, interactive video table games and more. A multi-purpose turf court and basketball court provide even more options for active recreation, as well as table tennis, billiards, and foosball found at the “Ruinous Mansion” – serving as homebase for Kids For All Seasons, the Resort’s complimentary kids camp available daily for children ages 4 to 12.
Children will have a blast at Kids For All Seasons, with a packed day of twice daily supervised swimming and indoor and outdoor activities designed by Sarah Peltier, Director of Recreation. Peltier brings an always-sunny and imaginative disposition to craft fun and creative activities. “It’s always a rewarding experience to create special memories for our little guests,” says Peltier. In addition to traditional poolside entertainment such as air brush tattoos, hair wraps, and balloon artistry, Kids For All Seasons offers daily activations including family game nights, dive-in movies at the family pool and much more. Teens will enjoy special evening activities such as nighttime scavenger hunts throughout Explorer Island, karaoke at The Hideout, and pickleball tournaments.
Peltier, being the oldest of 13 siblings from a blended household, stresses the importance of balancing family time when on vacation. She says, “Quality time spent together is precious, and giving each family member the freedom to recharge with their own resort experiences makes the rest of the vacation journey that much more enjoyable.”
Other fee-based activities are also offered, such as Explorer Island Takeover from 5-8pm and Teen Island Takeover from 8-11pm on Saturday nights, where parents can drop off kids for a few hours, to enjoy a romantic dinner.
Relax and Restore
While kids are entertained at Kids For All Seasons, parents can retreat to the 18-treatment room spa, offering a wide array of innovative treatments including Ayurvedic Healing, Vibrational Sound Therapy, IV and IM Vitamin Vitality treatments, and private meditation sessions in the Somadome, a cocoon of healing lights and sounds utilizing binaural beats, color therapy and energy medicine with magnets and crystal therapy. The Spa offers expansive indoor and outdoor relaxation lounges including a co-ed tranquility terrace, solarium with zero-gravity wave loungers, steam rooms and al fresco whirlpools where guests can unwind pre or post treatment, or at any time during their resort stay. “The purpose of vacation is to leave feeling rested and rejuvenated, and we give guests the opportunity to do just that within the sanctuary of our Spa,” says Derek Hofmann, Senior Director of Spa.
More relaxation awaits at the aptly named Oasis pool, exclusive for guests ages 21 and up. The chic, infinity-edge pool is lined with swaying palms, private cabanas and chaise lounges, complete with poolside cocktail service.
For those who wish to stay active during their spring getaway, the resort offers three Har-Tru tennis courts and a variety of clinics, as well as a 24-hour fitness center featuring Peloton® bikes, on-demand digital classes, and daily complimentary live fitness classes ranging from yoga to boot camp. Private instruction is also available, including personal Pilates reformer sessions guided by the Resort’s talented fitness instructors.
Golfers will love the 18-hole championship golf course at Four Seasons Golf and Sports Club Orlando. Whether seeking challenging play fit for professionals or family fun on the Par 3 six-hole short course and 18-hole putting course, guests are sure to enjoy an incomparable golf experience within the picturesque setting of the Tom Fazio-designed course, a certified Audubon Sanctuary featuring varying elevations, abundant wildlife and protected wetlands.
In addition to enjoying the immaculate spring weather outdoors, guests can retreat to the resort and enjoy shopping signature trunk shows with designer appearances at Wardrobe, the resort’s luxury boutique featuring designer apparel and fine jewelry.
Culinary Experiences
After a day spent poolside or exploring the nearby Walt Disney World Theme Parks, there’s no better way to refuel than with a Michelin-starred dinner at the rooftop Capa Steakhouse. Helmed by Capa Chef Malyna Si, the only female chef overseeing a Michelin-starred restaurant in Central Florida, the 17th floor restaurant features Spanish-influenced cuisine with a delectable array of tapas, locally-sourced seafood and wood-fired prime cuts including the pluma Iberico pork loin Si sourced from Extremadura, a prime 12-ounce bone-in filet, and a 16-ounce bone-in New York strip, both from Creekstone Farms in Kansas. There’s also a 12-ounce delmonico and a 16-ounce short rib, both PlatinumX wagyu level certified, a level above prime, from Jackman Ranch in Texas. Si takes pride in offering an elevated menu with unique and rare dishes, saying, “The practicality of my role is that everybody has to eat; the beauty of being a chef lies in the boundless possibilities to create.”
In addition to these mouthwatering options, there are several signature dishes that are not to be missed, including the pan con tomate small plate, the bacon-wrapped and Marcona-almond stuffed datiles, and the cinammon sugar-dusted Churros de Madrid. The incredible cuisine is matched only by Capa’s stunning ambiance, featuring two outdoor terraces with views of the Walt Disney World Resort fireworks spectaculars.
At Ravello, the resort’s modern Italian-restaurant which was also included in the Michelin Guide Miami, Orlando and Tampa, guests will delight in authentic Italian cuisine crafted by Executive Chef Fabrizio Schenardi, a native of Torino, Italy. Delicious pastas and pizza doughs are prepared with flour imported straight from Italy, and Fabrizio’s homemade limoncello is the perfect way to end any Italian feast. Plus, Ravello welcomes special guests every Thursday and Saturday morning, as well as select Tuesdays, for Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy & His Pals.
With six different on-site dining establishments featuring global flavors from a diverse culinary team, guests are sure to find something to satisfy every palate.
The Most Magical Place on Earth
There is no better time for guests to experience the magic of the 50th Anniversary of Walt Disney World® Resort, coming to an end March 31, 2023. However, guests can enjoy the excitement of the Disney Theme Parks all spring long with many on-site conveniences, including access to the Resort’s lobby level Disney Planning Center. Staffed by a Disney Cast Member, the Disney Planning Center team offers complimentary assistance with all Disney needs, including assisting guests with purchasing Park tickets conveniently on site, making Disney Park Pass and Disney dining reservations, and much more. Guests can venture to the nearby Disney Theme Parks with complimentary transportation in a luxury motor coach, and enjoy even more time to experience the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration with 30 minutes Early Park Entry to any Theme Park of choice daily.
Visit www.fourseasons.com/orlando/offers for more information.
SOURCE Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort
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Sports
CourtsApp Launches as “The Healthiest App in the World,” Turning Screen Time Into Play Time
CourtsApp, branded as “the healthiest app in the world,” aims to reduce screen time by encouraging users to engage in racquet sports like tennis and pickleball. The platform facilitates easy court bookings without membership fees, promoting movement and social interaction. Expansion plans cover various U.S. regions, maximizing accessibility for players.
If your New Year’s reset includes less scrolling and more moving, CourtsApp is trying to make that switch ridiculously easy.
CourtsApp has officially launched with a bold claim—calling itself “the healthiest app in the world”—and the positioning is clear: it’s not another wellness app asking for more screen time. It’s a tool designed to get you off your phone and onto a court.
What CourtsApp is (and why it’s different)
CourtsApp is an AI-powered marketing and booking platform that helps players instantly find and book open courts for tennis, pickleball, padel, and other racquet sports—often at discounted prices. The key point: no membership fees are required.
That matters because “friction” is one of the biggest reasons people don’t play as often as they want to. If booking a court means juggling memberships, phone calls, limited availability, or confusing club policies, most people default to the easier option: staying home.
CourtsApp’s pitch is simple: open the app, find a court, book it, and go play.
Turning screen time into play time
Most apps compete for attention. CourtsApp is leaning into the opposite idea—convert screen time into movement.
The average adult now spends more than seven hours a day looking at screens, a trend that’s often linked with rising rates of obesity, heart disease, anxiety, and social isolation. CourtsApp is positioning itself as a healthier relationship with your phone: use it briefly, then put it away and get outside.
Instead of tracking steps or pushing workouts through a screen, the app is built around real-world activity—full-body movement, outdoor play, and social connection.
Why racquet sports are having a moment
CourtsApp’s launch also taps into a bigger trend: racquet sports are booming, and not just because they’re fun.
Founder and CEO Daren Hornig argues that sports like tennis and pickleball can be a stronger path to fitness and longevity than the typical “10,000 steps” mindset.
“CourtsApp turns your phone into a gateway to real-world health,” Hornig said. “For years, we’ve been told that you can stay fit and lose weight by walking 10,000 steps a day, taking a Peloton class online or going to a gym. However, sports like tennis and pickleball give you a greater chance to achieve your health and fitness goals and live a longer and healthier life. And there’s no better time to start than the New Year.”
The company also points to research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, citing long-term data following more than 80,000 adults over nearly a decade. According to the release, participants in racquet sports saw a 47% lower risk of death from any cause and up to a 56% lower risk of cardiovascular-related death compared to non-participants.
Where CourtsApp is live now—and what’s next
CourtsApp is currently live for players across:
- New York
- New Jersey
- Connecticut
The platform already lists more than 1,500 courts across 150+ facilities in those markets.
Next up: expansion from Maine to Florida by Q1 2026, followed by market-by-market growth as club density increases. The release also calls out additional play-in markets including:
- Southern California
- Texas
- Pacific Northwest
Flexible pricing, more access, fewer barriers
One of the most practical angles here is affordability and access.
CourtsApp highlights discounted pricing during quieter hours—helping players turn a random free afternoon into court time without committing to a membership or paying peak-hour rates.
For clubs, the platform doubles as a marketing and booking engine. For players, it’s a shortcut to the thing they actually want: a court that’s open right now.
The bigger takeaway
CourtsApp is betting on a simple truth: people don’t need more motivation apps—they need fewer obstacles.
If the app delivers on its promise (fast booking, real inventory, and meaningful discounts), it could become a go-to tool for anyone trying to make movement a habit—especially in sports like pickleball and tennis where access and scheduling can make or break consistency.
Players and clubs can learn more or join the platform at CourtsApp.com.
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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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Sports
Paddletek Group Launches: What the New Multi-Brand Merger Means for Performance Pickleball
Paddletek forms the Paddletek Group with ProXR, Padeltek, and Yobow—plus a new performance paddle line coming next month.
Last Updated on January 16, 2026 by Daily News Staff
Pickelball multi-ethnic female team with concentrated expression about to play in an outdoor court
Paddletek Group Launches: What the New Multi-Brand Merger Means for Performance Pickleball
Pickleball’s growth has been loud, fast, and impossible to ignore. Now the equipment side of the sport is starting to consolidate in a way that could shape what players swing next season. On Dec. 19, 2025, Paddletek announced the creation of the Paddletek Group, a new umbrella organization that brings together Paddletek, ProXR, Padeltek, and Yobow under one platform. The goal: accelerate innovation in high-performance pickleball paddles (and padel rackets), expand athlete support, and build a bigger engine for growth as both sports continue to surge.What is the Paddletek Group?
At its core, the Paddletek Group is a multi-brand merger designed to unify product development, athlete partnerships, and go-to-market momentum across several recognized names. The announcement positions the new entity as a “unified platform” for:- Innovation in performance equipment for pickleball and padel
- Support for sponsored athletes
- Scaling growth as participation expands
Why this merger matters to players
Most players don’t wake up thinking about corporate structure. They wake up thinking about feel, control, pop, spin, and whether their paddle is helping or hurting them in tight points. This merger matters because it combines two distinct strengths:- Paddletek’s legacy in performance design and manufacturing
- ProXR’s performance-driven approach
A milestone moment for the brand (and the sport)
Curtis Smith, Founder of Paddletek, framed the move as bigger than a business headline. He said the formation of the Paddletek Group “marks an important milestone” for the brand and for pickleball and padel, adding that bringing the brands together “amplifies our ability to innovate to support both recreational and elite players.” That “recreational and elite” line is worth paying attention to. It suggests the group wants to build a product pipeline that spans:- approachable paddles for the everyday player
- high-performance models for advanced and tournament-level athletes
Dreambreaker: A Pickleball Story — A Closer Look at the Documentary and Its Uncredited Voice
The numbers: one million paddles, made in the USA
Paddletek also highlighted a major manufacturing and brand milestone: more than one million paddles sold, with products “proudly made in the USA.” In a category where manufacturing origin is part of the brand story (and sometimes part of the buying decision), that’s not a throwaway detail—it’s a positioning statement. The release also notes that, with the merger, the Paddletek Group becomes the No. 2 paddle brand among advanced players, citing the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA).What’s coming next: a new performance paddle line
The most immediate product news is this: the Paddletek Group says it will introduce a new performance paddle line next month, combining “the strength and expertise from both great brands.” While the release doesn’t share specs, pricing, or model names, it does set expectations that this won’t be a minor refresh. It’s being framed as a true “combined” line—likely the first public proof point of what the merger unlocks.Padel expansion is clearly on the roadmap
Pickleball may be the headline, but padel is not an afterthought here. The group says plans are underway to expand innovation into padel, which is seeing rapid growth globally. For equipment companies, padel represents a bigger international footprint and a different performance profile—meaning more R&D opportunity and, potentially, a broader athlete ecosystem.The leadership angle: Thirty-5 Capital steps into the spotlight
The release also spotlights Thirty-5 Capital’s role. Ron Saslow, Founder and Managing Partner at Thirty-5 Capital, is named CEO of the Paddletek Group. Saslow described the moment as “exhilarating” given the global growth of pickleball and padel, and said the group brings together “respected brands with complementary strengths, and tremendous technologies to create an even bigger, bolder, better company.” Private equity involvement doesn’t automatically mean “good” or “bad” for players—but it often means the company is gearing up to scale: more product launches, more marketing, more athlete signings, and more distribution.What to watch as this rolls out
If you’re a player, coach, or gear-head, here are the practical questions this announcement raises:- Will the new paddle line create a true performance leap, or mostly consolidate existing tech?
- How will athlete rosters evolve across Paddletek and ProXR sponsorships?
- Will “made in the USA” remain central as the group scales?
- How aggressively will the group push into padel, and will that influence pickleball R&D priorities?
Learn more
- Paddletek: https://www.paddletek.com/
- Thirty-5 Capital: https://www.thirtyfivecapital.com/
Disclosure: This article is based on a press release distributed via PRNewswire on Dec. 19, 2025. Sources: PRNewswire press release page: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/introducing-paddletek-group-advancing-the-future-of-performance-pickleball-302646989.html
The Sports section of STM Daily News is your ultimate destination for all things sports, catering to everyday fans and dedicated enthusiasts alike. We cover a wide range of topics, from the thrill of amateur competitions to the excitement of semi-professional and professional leagues. Our content delves into physical and mental fitness, providing insights and tips that help individuals elevate their performance, whether on the field or in their personal wellness journeys. Stay informed and inspired as we explore the dynamic world of sports, celebrating both the passion of the players and the joy of the fans.
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Ace Pickleball Club Launches National Player Development Series to Elevate Skills for Every Level of Play
Ace Pickleball Club launches a national Player Development Series with four training levels, plus free Intro to Pickleball clinics. Learn what’s included and how to sign up.
Ace Pickleball Club Launches National Player Development Series to Elevate Skills for Every Level of Play
Pickleball keeps pulling in new players for one simple reason: it’s easy to start and hard to stop. But once the “first game” excitement wears off, a lot of people hit the same wall—How do I actually get better without guessing what to practice next? Ace Pickleball Club (APC) just rolled out a clear answer. On December 17, 2025, Ace Pickleball Club announced the nationwide launch of its new Player Development Series—a four-stage training pathway built to help players learn fundamentals, build consistency, and progress toward competitive play over time.A four-stage pathway built for real progression
APC’s Player Development Series is structured as a multi-tier program with four progressive levels of instruction, designed to meet players where they are and give them an obvious “next step.” Here’s how the series breaks down:- Starter Series (available now nationwide): An eight-session program focused on core fundamentals, guided drills, and confidence-building play.
- Essentials Series (select locations now; nationwide in early 2026): Built to help players develop consistency and prepare for intermediate-level games.
- Performance Series (rolling out first half of 2026): Focused on strategy, court awareness, and competitive growth.
- Precision Series (rolling out first half of 2026): The final stage, centered on fine-tuning technique and advanced shot-making.
Beginner-friendly entry point still available (and free)
Alongside the new series, APC will continue offering its Intro to Pickleball clinic at all locations at no cost. This is a smart move because it removes the most common barrier for new players: feeling unprepared. According to APC, the Intro clinic provides everything needed to step onto the court, including:- Paddles
- Balls
- A welcoming, skilled instructor
- A beginner-friendly introduction to rules, movement, and the spirit of the game
Why APC is betting on development right now
Pickleball’s growth is bringing in players with wildly different goals—some want a fun weekly workout, others want to climb into competitive brackets. Joe Sexton, President of Ace Pickleball Club, said the new series is designed to serve that full range: “Our Player Development Series gives every member a clear next step, whether they’re touching a paddle for the first time or working toward advanced competitive play.” He also emphasized that APC is aiming to strengthen the community-first culture that keeps people coming back.Included as part of the member experience
APC says the Player Development Series is included as part of the Ace Pickleball Club Member experience, reinforcing its mission to keep the sport accessible, fun, and growth-oriented across ages and skill levels.About Ace Pickleball Club
Ace Pickleball Club is a national pickleball franchise built around a member-focused model and all-inclusive pricing. APC promotes an “open play on demand” approach—meaning players don’t need to coordinate groups, plan far in advance, or reserve a spot just to get on the court. APC currently has 22 locations open nationwide, with more planned for 2026. Clubs feature professional-grade cushioned courts and a climate-controlled playing environment.How to learn more or sign up
To learn more or register for a Player Development Series session, visit: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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