Stefan Bradley
LAST month, the Melbourne Pickleball League’s (MPL) Glen Eira Sports and Aquatic Centre (GESAC) Classic was the first of many amateur pickleball tournaments, and locals from our region picked up medals.
Sale players Christine Shingles, Nicole Bauer, Diane Arnot and Murray Fitzclarence participated.
Open to players of all skill levels and ages, the MPL GESAC Classic, which took place on September 23 and 24, is designed to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for pickleball enthusiasts, from beginners to seasoned pros.
Whether you’re a first-time participant or a seasoned veteran, this tournament offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the thrill and fun of competitive play in a friendly and supportive setting.
Pickleball could be viewed as a combination of three sports – as it has elements of tennis and table tennis and is played on the same-sized court as badminton.
Shingles said the group started participating in pickleball only a few months ago, and this was their first tournament.
“From our first hit, we were hooked and immediately began searching for more opportunities to play,” she said.
“Definitely exceeded my expectations, considering I only began playing in June.”
Bauer won gold in the women’s singles for skill.
Shingles and Bauer earnt a gold medal in Women’s Doubles 18+ (skill 2.5 to 3.5).
Fitzclarence and Arnot have just competed at the Australian Masters Games in Adelaide.
“Moving forward, we plan to play as many times a week as we can and are also organising inter-club matches,” Shingles said.
“Pennant will be introduced later this year and eyeing off more tournaments to challenge ourselves a little more.”
If you’d like to get involved in social pickleball, refer to the details below:
-Mick Mundy Stadium (corner of Gibson and Cobains Road, Sale) on Tuesdays (9-11am) and Sundays (10am-12pm). Phone Sharon Collins on 0439 310 751 for more information.
-Gippsland Regional Sports Complex on Thursdays 6-8pm (go to GRSC website).
-Stratford Tennis Club on Tuesdays (6pm): Phone Nicole Bauer on 0409 692 852.
-Longford Tennis Club on Mondays (6pm): Nicole Bauer (number above).
For further information, phone Christine Shingles on 0408 459 182 or email chrisshingles@hotmail.com
Ladies doubles winners Christine Shingles and Nicole Bauer.
Nicole Bauer (centre) won gold for the women’s intermediate (all ages singles).
Murray Fitzclarence and Diane Arnot were semi-finalists in Mixed Doubles. Photos: Contributed.
