Barbara Wellington
PebbleCreek’s 10th Annual Pickleball Club Invitational Tournament was a resounding success, celebrating a decade of paddles, passion, and community spirit in Goodyear, Ariz. Despite unusually warm weather over the Feb. 25–27 event, 448 dedicated athletes ages 50+ competed in men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles across skill levels 3.0–5.0, filling the courts with competitive energy and camaraderie.
Volunteers were the backbone of the tournament, managing registrations, baking goodies, setting up courts, directing parking, and supporting players amid the heat. Club members stepped up for shifts from early-morning prep to late-afternoon cleanups, exemplifying PebbleCreek’s tight-knit pickleball family and turning potential challenges into smooth, memorable experiences.
Two highlights to be noted include:
Gary Luders stole the show with his wonderful tradition of singing the national anthems at every one of the club’s 10 annual tournaments—a decade–long accomplishment that stirred both patriotism and applause.
PebbleCreek referee Bill Cagle earned the prestigious USA Pickleball Certified Referee designation after conquering a rigorous course, bringing expert officiating to the courts and inspiring his peers. To achieve that status, candidates follow a structured training pathway, pass multiple written tests with perfect scores, meet vision and performance standards, and successfully complete an on-court evaluation at a sanctioned tournament.
This 10th anniversary tournament solidified the PebbleCreek Pickleball Club’s legacy as Arizona’s premier 50+ hub, blending competition, community, and celebration under the sun. A heartfelt thank you goes out to our many sponsors, whose generosity elevated this milestone event by funding medals, signage, and hospitality that made every player feel truly celebrated.