From the Picklehood

Picklehood Potpourri

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…..Did You Hear?  I did.  Seems a visiting couple dropped in at one of our venues to play some pickleball and found that most playing that morning really didn’t want to play with two self rated 3.0 picklers.  They were told they needed to drive to another venue where the level of play “suited them better.”  Just so we’re clear, anyone can drop in at any County pickleball facility during published hours of play.  Times are not set in stone at all venues, but the word gets around about the level of play.  Some visitors don’t get the word and are just looking to have a fun time.  They should be welcomed and included.  At the end of the session, feel free to advise.  You will be appreciated.  Inclusion starts with how we treat each other.  Every player deserves to feel seen and welcomed.  

 

…..A Word About Rules.  There has been quite a bit of discussion online about rules violations during social play.  The hot topic, and for good reason, is kitchen violations.  Do you call them on your partner or the opposition?  Absolutely!!  Rules are there to be followed and enforced.  Make mention of the violation—nicely— and see how the person reacts.  If they agree, great.  If they don’t, that’s OK too.  You’ve made them aware.  You’ve also made them better.  Rules are in place so that no one has an unfair advantage.  Uncalled kitchen violations definitely create an advantage.

 

…..A Good Source.  Hawaii Pickleball Magazine is the primary source for pickleball news and information in Hawaii.  It covers pickleball on all islands that play. The magazine aims to celebrate local players, share stories, and provide practical tips and event coverage. Kudos to Jen Wilson, founder and editor.  She also encourages anyone to send her information about anything related to pickleball here on Kaua’i.

 

…..Speaking of Kudos.  Pickleball Association Kauai completed their second annual PAK Appreciation Day on Saturday, June 21 at Kalena Park in Lihue.  It was a day of fun, food and pickleball, including clinics for close to 75 participants who signed up to learn more about improving their skill set.  Members were once again treated to ono chicken hekka and a five star serving (or two) of carrot cake.

 

…..Tournament Fun.  Pickleball Association Kauai will be presenting the 3rd Annual PAK Open Pickleball tournament August 8th thru 10th at the Kauai Community College Pickleball Courts.  Your participation is encouraged as it takes a “picklehood” to run a good tournament.  Choose a skill level and age group for play and find out how your clinic attendance, drills and social play has benefited you.  Or, volunteer to help with the running of the tournament.

 

…..More Tournament Fun.  The first annual CFS (Child and Family Services) Pickleball tournament will also be held at the Kauai Community College courts this November 14-16.  For more information: ednmark@gmail.com  More information will also be available on pakauai.org very soon.

 

…..One For The Road.  Although not directly related to pickleball, I would say what follows is definitely something to file away to memory for members of our picklehood.  “If you ever find yourself in an emergency situation where you are stranded and cannot contact anyone because of poor reception and almost no battery life, change the greeting message before you lose power.  Go to Voice Memos or Voice Recorder App on your phone and record your predicament and location.  Someone trying to get in touch with you will be able to hear the message even if your phone has lost all battery power.”  

 

Wishing everyone good summer adventures and fun pickleball play.  See you on the courts soon…..or at Costco!!  

 

Jack Hodges

District Pickleball Ambassador - Hawaii

Kaua’i Resident