It was the battle of the paddles as Bundaberg went up against Hervey Bay to take home the coveted pickleball trophy.
Bundaberg pickleball member Kaylah Fox said the two teams knuckled down and gave it their all.
“On Saturday, 11 February, Tennis Bundaberg played host to the Hervey Bay Pickleball Club as they competed against the Bundy Power team to determine who would take home the coveted trophy and region-wide bragging rights,” Kaylah said.
“The tournament provided an excellent opportunity for members of both clubs to connect, socialise and measure their skills at Bundaberg’s new, purpose-built pickleball facility.
“The event commenced with a few rounds of randomly selected social games, allowing players to mingle and scope out the diversity of skills and experience present.”
Kaylah said the challenge was then on for the 40 competitors to battled it out and see which club would come out on top.
“As we all know, no rivalry cannot be smoothed over with a barbecue and a few cold beverages,” she said.
“In the end, Bundy emerged victorious 91 – 85! This result was fantastic as Hervey Bay defeated Bundaberg in August’s tournament last year.
“When reflecting upon and comparing the tournaments, the clubs were elated to see how far the clubs had come and how many new players had joined the fold.”
She said some of the members had only been playing for a little more than a month and they were thrilled to have had the opportunity to play with and learn from more seasoned athletes in the region.
“It was powerful to see that the sport, which is a quirky mix between tennis, ping pong and badminton, was able to bring people together for an afternoon of laughter, fun and some healthy competition.
“Both clubs were grateful to the players, spectators and volunteers who made this event possible and are excited to welcome more locals to get hooked on this fun, social and accessible sport.”
- Earlier story: Booming success as new pickleball courts open
