Any celebrity can play pickleball — these days, it’s a trope among the stars. But very few can really compete.

If you’re a fan of the Showtime series Yellowjackets, you’ll be pleased to know that Simone Kessell, the actress who plays grown up Lottie, not only brought a paddle with her to every shooting location, but is also known in her home country of Australia as quite the pickleball athlete.

In 2024, Simone won gold in the women's singles (35+, 4.0) at the Australian Pickleball Championship. Let’s see some pickleball-loving American stars like T-Swift do that.

Generational Pickleball FTW

I may not be in Simone Kessell’s age bracket, but I’d be honored to play with her nonetheless. And that’s how it should be: just ask event organizers at Pictona at Holly Hill in Florida.

The Pictona Generations Split Ages Tournament will transcend age barriers in pickleball, joining doubles pairs of players from different age groups. The round-robin format ensures each mixed-age team plays at least four matches.

With pickleball's growing popularity across all demographics, this tournament exemplifies how the sport unites generations.

If you’re in Pictona in late May/early June, early registration discounts are available until May 1.

When to Speed It Up: The Complete Guide

BRING THIS TO THE COURT: 

Want to keep your opponents guessing and take control of the rally? The pickleball speed up is a powerful tool—but only when executed correctly. Time it wrong, and you’re handing your opponent an easy counter.

When to Speed Up

A well-timed speed up can shift momentum in your favor. Here’s when to go for it:

✔ You’re Balanced & Ready – Don’t attack off-balance. Set your feet first.
✔ The Ball Is Attackable – Look for a ball above the net that allows for a downward shot.
✔ Your Hands Are Faster – If you and your partner have quicker hands, take advantage.
✔ You Can Disguise It – The best speed ups look like dinks—until the last second.
✔ Your Opponent Struggles with Pace – Some players panic under pressure. Exploit it.

How to Hit Better Speedups

🔹Controlled Power – 60–70% power is ideal. Full-force shots often sail out.
🔹Compact Swing – Avoid a big wind-up. A short, controlled motion prevents errors.
🔹Add Topspin – A windshield-wiper motion keeps your shot low and harder to counter.

Lastly, target wisely. Aim for:

• The Chicken Wing (paddle-side shoulder/hip) – Tough to defend.

• At the Feet – Forces a weak return.

• Down the Middle – Creates confusion between opponents.

An All-Court Paddle for All

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Impactful Pickle

This April, the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) are teaming up for the APP National Pickleball Challenge, a series of events that will support cancer patients.

The challenge is simple: play pickleball 10 times during National Pickleball Month, track your active minutes, and climb the national leaderboard. Whether it’s a full-on match, casual rally, or paddle drills, every bit of pickleball counts.

Players can sign up on JustGiving, fundraise for ACS, and log their activity starting April 1 via the Stridekick app.

But the positive impact of pickleball events extends beyond charity. The first PPA Tour pro pickleball tournament in Louisiana will debut in April 2025, bringing an estimated $800,000 boost to Baton Rouge’s economy.

Hosted at Stacks Pickleball—the state’s first indoor, climate-controlled pickleball facility—the tournament will showcase the sport’s rapid growth and community benefits.

TAKE ACTION

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