Game Set Match took 30 players to the recent Pickleball Sketchers English Open in Telford and brought back 22 medals!
Pickleball, for those who haven’t come across it, is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK. A mix of tennis and table tennis, players use a smooth-faced paddle to hit a perforated, hollow plastic ball over a net. Pickleball is an incredibly inclusive sport with the Leeds competitors aged from 11-75, including people with disabilities.
Competions are graded 3.0 for beginners up to 4.5+ for the pro levels.
Michal Cicvak, who runs Game Set Match, led from the front securing a Gold medal in in the 4.5 over 35s and a Silver with Nathan Hill in the 4.5 over 35s age category.
There were also Gold medals in the Men’s Doubles 3.0 for ages 55+; the wheelchair event; Doubles for ages 35+ with a 3.5+ rating; Doubles for ages 35+ with a 3.0 rating; and the Mixed Doubles 3.0 for ages 55+. Plus Silver and Bronze medals in a further seven categories.
Michal Cicvak said:
“My Pickleball program will resume in September, and I’m eager to invite new players of any age and skill level to try it out!
“Pickleball is relatively new to the UK; I’ve been running the program for nearly three years and cherish the club’s camaraderie. I’m keen to see our community expand.
“Pickleball is for anyone regardless of age, gender, disability (I have wheelchair and deaf players on the programme) no previous racket sports background needed, it’s a massively enjoyable all age, no barriers sport.”
You can play Pickleball at the John Charles Centre for Sport Tennis Centre, Middleton Grove, LS11 5DJ.
There are seven lunchtime and evening sessions. You can find the full timetable and booking details at bit.ly/JCCSPickle or email gamesetmatch.mc@outlook.com
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