Daily News
Exploring the Rise of Independent Senior Pickleball Organizations and their Lessons for All Players
Independent senior pickleball organizations: fostering long-term success, community, and pickleball independence.
The pickleball landscape is dominated by large organizations such as USA Pickleball (USAPA), the Association of Pickleball Players (APP), the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA), and Major League Pickleball (MLP). However, not all disciplines within these organizations receive adequate support, particularly senior-level athletes. As a result, seniors have taken the initiative to establish independent organizations that cater specifically to their players and their unique needs.
Through interviews with players and organizers from these senior entities, including Vicky Noakes, Rick Witsken, and Mattias Johansson, we gain a profound appreciation for the immense expertise and experience required to create opportunities for senior players. In an impressively short period of time, these independent senior organizations have not only been established but have also set a path that others can learn from. They have achieved something unprecedented by being created and developed by individuals who have dedicated years to the sport, while drawing upon a talented pool of members with vast life and professional experience. In essence, they have demonstrated that they do not rely on billionaires for their success.
Valuable Lessons from Seniors for Open Players and Pros:
Decades of personal and professional experience bring wisdom and patience. This is not the fleeting self-confidence of youth but a deep-rooted assurance that comes from years of trial and error, developing over extended periods of time. Such confidence leads to rational decision-making and logical strategies, culminating in long-term success.
The Future of These Independent Entities:
While most of these organizations are relatively new, their current state of affairs reveals their commitment to patience before profitability. Their approach to success aligns with the game they represent, emphasizing the importance of patience and understanding the landscape. Conversely, some larger organizations seem to lack these qualities, relying on throwing money around as a strategy that is neither effective nor sustainable. Young pickleball professionals would be wise to study the generation of people who are moving forward with humility and respect, not only for the game but also for each other. The pursuit of control and power driven by profit often leads to exhausting drama. Instead, considering fellow players and the organizations they have developed can serve as a tool for long-term success in one’s career. Let us revive a culture that values the wisdom of elders, fostering a united pickleball community that thrives together and shapes our sport’s future.
The emergence of independent senior pickleball organizations showcases the power of dedication, experience, and a commitment to players’ needs. By embracing the lessons learned from these entities, players of all levels can contribute to creating a sustainable and thriving pickleball community. Let us appreciate the wisdom of those who came before us, forge a path of unity and respect, and take control of our pickleball future.
National Pickleball League: https://www.nplpickleball.com/
