MORE than 100 pickleball players took to the Tomaree Netball Courts on Sunday for a new competition bringing Port Stephens players together with their Sydney rivals.
The inaugural Interclub Challenge was held on 30 August between the Port Stephens Pickleball Club and Around the Ponds (ATP) Pickleball Club, which is based around the Kellyville area.
There was plenty of friendly rivalry on the courts, with both clubs keen to be the first winners of the new trophy.
Mixed-gender teams competed across Intermediate, Advanced and Elite divisions, giving players of different skill levels the chance to represent their club.
After plenty of close games, it was ATP who took the inaugural trophy back to Sydney.
The competition demonstrated exactly what pickleball is all about, according to Port Stephens Pickleball Club President, John Grace.
“Friendly competition, enjoyment and a strong sense of community,” he said.
“It was fantastic to see more than 100 players come together to represent their clubs and support one another.”
There was no shortage of competition between the two clubs.
“There was certainly a competitive edge, with both clubs keen to take home the inaugural trophy, but the sportsmanship and friendship shown between the players were the real highlights of the day,” ATP Pickleball Club President Scott Fisk said.
Once the official competition was over and the trophy presented, the players joined together in mixed social teams.
The event called for a big effort behind the scenes, with volunteers and organisers helping prepare the courts, coordinate teams and keep matches running throughout the day.
Port Stephens Pickleball Club thanked everyone who helped make the first challenge possible, along with FD Pickleball and Pickleodian for supporting the event.
With the first competition proving popular, both clubs hope to make the Interclub Challenge a regular event.
For Port Stephens, there is also the small matter of winning the trophy next time.
By Althea GUINSBERG
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