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The 3 Amigos Pickleball Style: A new continental organization emerges for Pickleball

 

Introducing the new Pickleball Federation of the Americas

 

Pickleball is a fast-growing sport that is gaining popularity all over the world. It’s a sport that is enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels, and it’s easy to see why. My local court, Keswick Park is a multitude mixing pot of people from all over the Americas, especially Central and South America. Most beginners are amazed at how much fun the sport is, but acknowledge that it is barely heard of outside of North America.

The Keswick Park, a local court bustling with players from diverse corners of the Americas, especially Central and South America, exemplifies how pickleball acts as a bridge that transcends borders. However, despite its rapid growth and fervent following in North America, pickleball remains a mystery to many beyond these shores.

To bridge this gap and amplify the sport’s reach, the United States, Canada, and Mexico have joined forces to establish the Pickleball Federation of the Americas (PFA). This groundbreaking organization assumes the mantle of being the premier governing body for pickleball in the region, with a mission to cultivate and champion the sport’s expansion across the Americas.

Central to the PFA’s vision is the propagation of pickleball in countries where its presence is yet to be felt. The PFA’s outreach extends to the vibrant landscapes of South America, Central America, the Caribbean, and North America. Collaborating with national pickleball organizations, the PFA is set to plant the seeds of programs, events, and training opportunities, nurturing a newfound enthusiasm for this thrilling sport.

Moreover, the PFA is dedicated to nurturing pickleball players of all calibers, from novices taking their first swing to seasoned professionals exhibiting prowess on the court. This commitment translates into coaching and training initiatives, curated tournaments and events, and the establishment of universal standards for equipment and facilities. The PFA’s ethos revolves around fostering sportsmanship and fair play, ensuring that pickleball is played with integrity and respect, traits that mirror the values of unity and camaraderie shared by the Americas.

The PFA’s Unifying Impact

The 3 amigos=pickleball style!

The Pickleball Federation of the Americas has far-reaching implications that extend beyond the court lines. Its establishment sets in motion a series of transformative outcomes:

1. International Sporting Recognition: The PFA’s inception acts as a pivotal stepping stone toward pickleball’s inclusion in prestigious sporting events such as the Olympics and Pan American Games, solidifying its status as a globally revered sport.

2. Exchange of Knowledge and Resources: A unified front allows for the exchange of valuable resources, best practices, and tournament opportunities among nations. This collaborative approach elevates the standard of the sport across the region.

3. Strengthened Alliances: The PFA serves to formalize and enhance the already strong relationship between Pickleball Canada and th

e USA Pickleball, laying a solid foundation for cross-border cooperation.

The Inaugural Americas Championship, slated to be held in Los Cabos, Mexico, from November 26 to December 2, 2023, stands as a testament to the PFA’s rapid growth. This tournament, the first sanctioned event under the PFA banner, is expected to draw around 350 players. The participation of countries like Peru, the Dominican Republic, Colombia, Costa Rica, Venezuela, Panama, and the Caribbean region underscores the PFA’s swift integration and influence.

A Catalyst for Unity

Beyond the exhilarating rallies and the thrill of competition, pickleball has emerged as an instrument of unity. As individuals from diverse cultures converge on the court, they share laughter, build connections, and form a close-knit community that transcends linguistic and geographical boundaries. The Pickleball Federation of the Americas embodies this spirit of unity, reflecting how a common passion can break down barriers and foster lasting bonds.

In a world often divided by differences, the PFA’s model of collaboration is a lesson that transcends the realms of sports. It prompts us to contemplate the potential of shared endeavors to create harmony and cooperation, not only on the court but also in the corridors of diplomacy.

So, as the PFA propels pickleball onto a grander stage, let us take inspiration from this dynamic initiative. Let us envision a world where the camaraderie forged over a pickleball net becomes a guiding principle for global interactions, reminding us that while we may hail from different corners of the world, we are all part of one human family.

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“Pickling Your Peepers: Serve, Smash, and Shield Your Eyes in Pickleball!”

health care professional is tending to a pickleball injury

So,  my family of pickleheads, it’s time to “pickle your peepers” and gear up with protective eyewear! Let’s face it, we all want to play pickleball fearlessly, and nothing should hold us back from getting in front of those court smashers, returning with a soft dink, and winning those games.

Pickleball is a popular sport that has been gaining traction among players of all ages. As the game’s popularity soars, so does the awareness of the risks associated with playing without proper eye protection. I wrote this blog to explore the compelling reasons why protective goggles or eyewear should be mandatory in pickleball, and why players should prioritize the safety and health of their eyes while enjoying the game they love.

Now, some might argue that wearing goggles or glasses on the court may impede their vision and cramp their style. But trust me, it’s a small price to pay for protecting those precious peepers, this from a guy who has already had two sports-related retina detachments, and who discovered pickleball when my last operation sidelined my soccer playing days forever. When I was first introduced to the game, I was shocked at how many pickleball players don’t wear protection.  Especially, when I experienced my lack of direction ( and the lack of many other newbies) on the courts. After all, pickleball is not just about winning a game; it’s about having fun, bonding with friends, and keeping those eyes healthy and happy for all the games yet to come.

The Perils of Playing Unprotected

Pickleball is a game that involves a hard plastic ball and swift paddle movements. The speed of the ball can be alarming, especially when it comes into contact with vulnerable soft tissue such as the eyes. Eye injuries can range from mild discomfort to severe retina detachment, which may require extensive surgery and prolonged recovery times. The risks are even more concerning for the average pickleball player, who tends to fall within the age range of 60-76, where eye injuries are less likely to heal quickly. According to the National Library of Medicine, “Proper eye protection should be strongly considered while playing pickleball, especially in the elderly population or in individuals who are at higher risk for retinal detachment.”

According to Pickleball Magazine, a pickleball can travel at one-third the velocity of a tennis ball or about 40 miles per hour. The magazine noted that when the players are positioned at the “no-volley line,” it can take 350 to 400 milliseconds – less than half a second – for the ball to travel from one paddle to the other. This does not leave players any time to avoid being hit in the eye with a ball. In addition to injuries from being hit by a ball, serious damage can occur from being hit in the eye with a paddle.

Numerous incidents of eye injuries have been reported in the pickleball community. One instance involved Allison Miller from Delta pickleball association in BC,  who had her retina detached and required surgery after being hit by a whiffle ball during a game. Such stories underscore the urgency of implementing strict safety rules and mandatory eyewear usage. Recreational players are not the only ones that have had major injuries. This holds true even in the professional realm, as demonstrated by Jessie Irvine, a pro player who suffered a blow to the eye area during a recent tournament. Despite attempting to recuperate for several minutes, Irvine ultimately had to withdraw from the tournament bracket on that day and was unable to participate forcing her to completely exit the competition. These stories remind us that accidents can happen to anyone, but we can take preventive measures.

Allision Miller retina detachment

Retinal surgery is 100% avoidable with specs. just ask Allison Miller!

Why Players Are Reluctant to Wear Protective Eyewear?

While the need for eye protection is undeniable, some players are still hesitant to don goggles or eyewear. The most common concern is how it might impact their performance on the court. Players fear that the added gear may obstruct their vision or feel uncomfortable during intense, sweat-induced matches. Addressing these concerns and dispelling myths can help players realize that the benefits of wearing protective eyewear far outweigh any perceived drawbacks.

The Advantages of Embracing Eye Protection

  1. Fearlessness on the Court: Knowing that their eyes are safe allows players to focus solely on their game, leading to improved performance and confidence.
  2. Eye Strain Reduction: Protective eyewear shields the eyes from harmful UV rays and prevents squinting, leading to reduced eye strain from sun exposure.
  3. Windborne Debris Protection: Eyewear shields the eyes from debris that might be carried by the wind during outdoor games, preserving clear vision.
  4. Enhanced Depth Perception and Contrast: Proper eyewear designed for pickleball enhances depth perception and contrast, enabling players to track the ball with precision.
  5. Prevention of Eye Injuries: Protective eyewear significantly reduces the risk of severe eye injuries, including retina detachment or cornea scraping from stray balls.
  6. Reduced Risk of Paddle-Related Injuries: Protective eyewear also guards against accidental hits to the face from paddles, preventing potential injuries ( I saw this happen recently when a paddle flew out of the beginner’s hand and hit her partner in the back).

Selecting the Right Eyewear for a Perfect Fit (or as close to perfect!)

When choosing protective eyewear for pickleball, several key factors should be considered. These include impact resistance, anti-fogging, anti-glare, and UV resistance. Additionally, players with prescription needs should look for options that allow for prescription lenses. A snug and comfortable fit is essential to ensure a hassle-free experience during play. Try to get as close to a perfect fit as possible. This is very important because you don’t want to buy something that will give you a hard time while playing the game. The glasses shouldn’t be too loose or too tight. They should be as close to the perfect fit as possible.  Now I buy inexpensive but really efficient eye protection to protect my eyes, although they don’t really offer me a better vision on the court, I feel safe getting in front of those balls from smashers. I use simple construction safety glasses that offer me clear UV lenses, fit well, are super durable, and best of all cheap enough that I always have extra pairs for my friends or newcomers that show up to play with me. However,  if buying Pickleball gear from Home Depot doesn’t float your boat then here are some brands to consider when buying eyewear. For players seeking quality eyewear that are more than adequate for pickleball, several renowned brands offer an array of options.

These include:

inexpensive eye wear for pickleball players

Effective and inexpensive!

  1. NoCry Safety Glasses: Clear Anti-Fog Scratch Resistant Wrap-Around
  2. ONIX Pickleball Owl Eyewear: Modern and Lightweight Design
  3. Unique Tourna Specs: Blue Tint Sports Glasses for Tennis and Pickleball
  4. Gearbox Vision Eyewear
  5. ONIX Pickleball Falcon Eyewear: Modern and Lightweight Design
  6. Python Full Framed Racquetball Eye Protection
  7. Bollé Safety 40305 Tryon Safety Glasses: Platinum®, Black/Blue Frame, CSP
  8. Gearbox Vision Racquetball, Pickleball, Squash Eyewear
  9. Python Full Framed Racquetball Eye Protection: Clear Lens/White Frame
  10. Pyramix Highlander wrap around

PS I haven’t tried all of these products but I did take the time to see what other players are wearing and get feedback. These were the brands I chose from my local groups, considering the price, availability, and quality of my selections. My goal is to inform and get eyewear onto as many players as possible!

In my humble opinion, eye protection is a paramount concern for pickleball players. The risks associated with playing unprotected are too great to be ignored. I strongly believe that mandating the use of protective goggles or eyewear is a necessary step to safeguard the eyes of pickleball enthusiasts, especially older players, who may be more vulnerable to eye injuries. Players must prioritize their eye health and well-being, understanding that wearing protective eyewear not only prevents injuries but also enhances their performance on the court. With the variety of eyewear options available, players can find a perfect fit that combines safety, comfort, and vision enhancement. So, let’s all come together as a community, embrace the importance of eye protection, and make it a firm rule in our games. Let’s pickle our peepers and savor the joy of pickleball without the fear of eye injuries looming over us. We owe it to ourselves, our friends, and the pickleball community to take this step toward safe and inclusive play.

My fellow pickleheads, I really believe it’s time to smash the notion that protective eyewear is just an optional accessory! It’s a game-changer, a sight-saver, and a must-have on the pickleball court. So next time you step on the court, remember to “serve, smash, and shield your eyes” – because in pickleball, protecting your vision is a NO brainer! Let’s keep the game fun, fierce, and injury-free. See you on the court, with goggles on and spirits high!

Yours in Pickleball, Chris

Pickleball eye protection

Vented to reduce the fog of pickleball fun!

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That, my friends, is what pickleball brings to your community

ipop sports and entertainment

Pickleball, a sport that has captured the hearts of many, is not just about hitting a ball with a paddle. It’s a community, a shared passion that brings people together. As a pickleball instructor, I recently received a heartwarming message from one of my students that reminded me of the true power of this game. In this blog post, I want to share the story of how pickleball’s inclusivity and enthusiasm can transcend boundaries and bring people from all walks of life together.

Warming my pickleball heart.

A Message of Gratitude
I was overwhelmed with gratitude when I received a message from one of my students expressing her heartfelt appreciation. It was not just about the fact that I had helped her improve her game; it was the deeper impact that pickleball had made on her life. She thanked me for introducing her to the world of pickleball, a small “change” that had helped her game and brought immense joy and fulfillment.

The Power of Invitation
What truly touched me was her enthusiasm to share this newfound passion with her loved ones. She mentioned inviting her husband, her friend’s husband, her sons, and her neighbors to join her in playing pickleball. It was a beautiful testament to the power of invitation and the inclusive nature of the sport. So keep on inviting newcomers to play with you, remember pickleball peeps that play together Stay Together in health and wellness!
Help and nurture our new players that you see on the court, and give back to them with a little time, there is nothing more selfish than when a player who has received so much from the sport avoids spending time with the newcomers. Give back and you’ll be happier knowing that you’ve “gotten” the true SPIRIT of pickleball.

Building a Community
Pickleball is more than just a game. It can foster a sense of community and connection. By inviting her family members, friends, and neighbors to experience the game, my student was creating a network of individuals who could share the joy and excitement that pickleball brings. One family now has 4 generations coming to play pickleball regularly, and this is so healthy for players that attend, let alone the benefit we all get from participating in a big pickleball family, simple there is no other sport that offers generational inclusivity like pickleball! In fact according to Vaughn Baker, “Several years ago, PBS came down from Philadelphia and produced a special on this new game pickleball. The producer asked me to round up the players with qualified health benefits from Pickleball. I lined them up in single file for 40 feet and PBS selected them at random. Here were some of their comments: “Saved my life,” “Lost 80 pounds,” “Off all meds,” “Doctor can’t believe it.” That, my friends, is what pickleball brings to your community. It doesn’t matter if you are good or bad because pickles come in all sizes and shapes — laughing all the way! ”  It is this aspect that I truly love.

Breaking Barriers

Diversity in Pickleball across the nation.

Pickleball knows no boundaries. As a Canadian, I grew up with the concept of a multicultural society and at times, I have struggled to see the concept in practice.  The belief that a truly multi-cultural society exists…until I began playing at Keswick that is! On any given day, Keswick is filled with many different languages, laughter, and even encouraging banter. I can now call out in Hindi, numbers in Farsi, and say good shot in Mandarin! What other sport would teach me that? Only pickleball!

It is a sport that can be enjoyed by people of all ages, genders, and abilities. By inviting her husband and sons, my student was breaking down the stereotype that pickleball is only for a specific demographic. The inclusivity of the sport encourages everyone to participate, fostering a sense of belonging and camaraderie.

 

Spreading the Love

Pickleball’s Spectrum of Diversity

As pickleball enthusiasts, we have the opportunity to introduce this wonderful sport to those around us. By sharing our experiences and inviting others to join, we can create a ripple effect that expands the pickleball community. I have learned more about different cultures, my community, and myself than at any other time in my life. The more people we introduce to the game, the more we not only contribute to the growth and inclusivity of the sport but to our neighborhoods and nation too!

The Privilege of Sharing
The story of my student’s enthusiasm and her efforts to invite her loved ones into the world of pickleball is a testament to the power of this incredible sport. It brings people together, breaks down barriers, and creates a sense of belonging. As pickleball enthusiasts, we have the privilege of sharing this experience with others and expanding the community. Let us embrace the inclusive spirit of pickleball and continue to spread the love for this game that has the potential to change lives. So share the passion peeps!

Yours in Pickleball!
Chris

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POP! POP! What is that noise coming from Keswick Park?

IPOP Sports and Entertainment

POP! POP! POP! The sound echoed through the park, followed by laughter and banter. I was curious, had to approach, and had to ask, “What the heck is that sound, and what’s so funny?” That’s how I stumbled upon the beginner’s Pickleball nights at Keswick Park, and little did I know it would change my life!

Despite being covered in sweat after a blazing trail ride on my mountain bike, I was welcomed with open arms by the seasoned pickleball players. Within sixty minutes, I was given a paddle ( wooden but fun), shown the ropes and I was hooked on the game.  All from several players that couldn’t speak English!  What struck me the most was the diversity of the players, new Canadians from all over the world,  and the encouragement they showed each other.

Keswick Park is a small community green space in Burnaby, BC, with one of the fastest-growing groups of Pickleball enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest, held together by a WhatsApp group and a passion to grow the game. Players actively recruit anyone who walks by and stops to watch, especially unsuspecting tennis players who show up during designated PB hours and find the courts packed with laughter and the sound of Pickleballs getting whacked back and forth across the net.

My personal story and connection to PB began in the summer of 2022 when I was riding my bike around Keswick Park. I was struggling with mental health issues and had been feeling lonely and depressed due to the pandemic. In fact, a recent study by the Frontiers of Psychology concluded that ”  pickleball is displayed as an inclusive sport that does not need adaptations, resulting in great interest to be worked in different populations with mental problems.”

What’s remarkable about the Keswick PB community is that there’s no real leadership just volunteers, and a loose organizational structure, guided by our local Burnaby Pickleball Association, that provides paddles and other equipment to help the group mentor new players. Our group continues to grow and attract new players. Ming, a player who focuses on teaching new players the rules of Pickleball in broken English, is a shining example of the inclusivity and kindness that defines this community.

I believe that Pickleball can make a big difference in the lives of anyone willing to try. It certainly made a difference in mine. That’s why I want to share this feeling and experience with as many people as possible and open up IPOPs across Canada.

Keswick Park is a special place with a vibrant and diverse Pickleball community that welcomes all who want to play. It’s a place where laughter and encouragement abound, and where a game with a strange-sounding name can change the lives of us all for the better. Playing PB with the group at Keswick was a big part of my recovery, providing great low-impact exercise and a network of new neural pathways that lifted my mood. I will talk about this in later Blogs, but this is only one of the reasons that I knew I needed to start the Inclusive Place of Pickleball and model it after the experience I have had at Keswick. Pickleball is not just a game…it’s about connection and community.

For this, I will always be eternally grateful…

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Have you ever had Pickleball Elbow? Here’s 5 tips to prevent it!

Modified for Pickleball elbow !

You mean Pickleball Elbow don’t you?

The game recently give me a Sour Twist and I had to come to the conclusion that the dreaded  “pickleball elbow” is a thing, and my sore elbow is exactly that…lateral epicondylitis. Oh NOOOOO…sheer terror set in as thoughts of no pickleball forced beads of sweat down my brow…but do the symptoms match I ask? My elbow, yes the bony part, and the muscle tissue around it, inflamed and sore. It gets worse the more I play, and my strategies to date—playing through the pain, hoping for my over 50-year-old body to respond as a 25-year-old with a miraculous cure, or just ignoring it in the hopes it goes away—have so far, sadly, failed! However, my newest approach, after “acceptance,” has been to really focus on limited play AFTER a serious set of arm, wrist, and upper body stretches. This has slowly started to yield results. But more about the solutions later…

Why do players get lateral epicondylitis? Pickleball elbow, also known as lateral epicondylitis, is common among avid pickleball players. It occurs due to repetitive stress on the tendons that connect the forearm muscles to the outer part of the elbow. The repetitive motion of hitting the ball with the paddle, especially when done incorrectly, can lead to inflammation and micro-tears in the tendons.

What are the symptoms of lateral epicondylitis? Symptoms of pickleball elbow may include pain and tenderness on the outer part of the elbow, weakened grip strength, and discomfort when performing activities that involve wrist extension or gripping objects tightly. If you find yourself grimacing every time you reach for your pickleball paddle or experience discomfort during daily activities, you might be facing the fact you too have pickleball elbow.  If you need a little more confirmation, here is a really thorough video that helped me confirm my symptoms without wasting my family Doc’s valuable time.

Prevention is always better than cure. Here are a few tips to help you avoid the dreaded pickleball elbow:

  1. Muscle Flexibility: Engage in regular stretching exercises to improve muscle flexibility. Focus on stretching your forearms, wrists, and shoulders before and after playing. This will help warm up the muscles, reduce strain, and increase their range of motion.
  2. Strength Exercises: Incorporate strength training exercises into your routine to build stronger muscles. Pay attention to your forearm muscles, grip strength, and upper body. Consult a fitness professional or physical therapist for exercises that target these areas.
  3. Change Your Grip: Experiment with different grips and pressures on the paddle handle. Avoid excessive squeezing or gripping too tightly. Find a comfortable grip that allows for better control and minimizes stress on your elbow.
  4. Improve Your Swing Mechanics: Work on refining your swing technique and court placement. Focus on using proper form, utilizing the larger muscles of your body, and avoiding excessive strain on your elbow. Seek guidance from experienced players or consider taking lessons to fine-tune your technique.

Additional Pickleball Elbow Prevention:

  • Use an elbow brace or compression sleeve for extra support. However, compression of the muscle didn’t work for me.
  • Take regular breaks during play to rest your muscles and prevent overuse.
  • Listen to your body and avoid playing through pain or discomfort.

Treatment for Pickleball Elbow: If you’re already dealing with pickleball elbow, don’t worry! There are steps you can take to alleviate the pain and promote healing:

  1. Rest and Ice: Take a break from pickleball and give your elbow time to heal. Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times daily, to reduce inflammation.
  2. Pain Relief: I have used, sparingly, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines, like aspirin or ibuprofen to reduce pain and swelling. However, this is not a long-term solution, but rather a small addition after playing, and i don’t suggest taking medications as a pre-game ” play through the pain strategy”! For some, over-the-counter pain medications can help manage the discomfort, so consult with a healthcare professional for appropriate recommendations.
  3. Physical Therapy: Seek the assistance of a physical therapist who can provide targeted exercises to strengthen and rehabilitate the affected muscles and tendons.
  4. Strengthening Stretches: Once the acute pain subsides, incorporate gentle stretches into your routine to gradually regain flexibility and prevent future injuries. Strengthening and stretching exercises are one of the most important components of recovery programs. The underlying principle of stretching is that, by lengthening the tendon during relaxation, we can reduce its stretching during offending movements. The best stretching position for the Extensor Carpi Radialis Brevis tendon is reached with the elbow in extension, forearm in pronation, wrist in flexion, and ulnar deviation of the wrist, according to the patient’s tolerance. This stretching should be held for 30- 45 s and 3 times before and after playing pickleball.

Dynamic stretching exercises for healing Pickleball Elbow

Practicing Safety in Pickleball is More Important Than Practicing Your Dink! Even though pickleball is generally easier on the body compared to other sports like tennis, it’s still essential to prioritize safety. While the court size and paddle design reduce the risk of injury, it’s crucial to train your body to use proper mechanics on the court and take care of your body off the court.

Don’t overplay and incorporate a good pre and post-prevention ritual including a proper body warm-up, dynamic and static stretching, and a decent cool-down period after each session. Listen to your body and address any signs of discomfort early on to avoid prolonged pain or injury.

Pickleball elbow may be an unfortunate reality for many players, but it doesn’t have to be a game-changer. By implementing preventive measures such as muscle flexibility exercises, strength training, adjusting your grip, and improving your swing mechanics, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing pickleball elbow. If you’re already experiencing symptoms, remember to rest, seek professional guidance, and gradually reintroduce physical activity once the pain subsides. Stay safe, take care of your body, and keep enjoying the game we all love—pickleball!

Updated: November 2023: Well, after many months of recurring injury, I surrendered my arm to Vampire doctor, who is know in my area as a Dr with unconventional tactics towards healing my arm. The process has been 10 mins of Electroacupuncture,  a modern

variation of acupuncture. It uses electricity to enhance the benefits of this traditional therapeutic treatment. Then Doc uses Cupping therapy, which is an ancient form of alternative medicine in which he puts special cups on my elbow skin for a few minutes to create suction. According to Doc, besides helping with pain,  it also reduces inflammation by increasing blood flow to the area. Doc Simon says it’s just like an oil change. So far so good, but this time, after 6 weeks off, my goal is to slowly return to the courts, i mean playing only 30 mins to 1 hour for the first week.  Hopefully, some day soon, i will see you guys out there on the courts.

Disclaimer: The content in the IPOP pickleball blog is for informational purposes only. IPOP’s pickleball blog is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, as IPOP is not a doctor. Always seek the advice of a qualified medical professional.

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