Pickleball Magazine 2-5 | Page 44

Registration for this tournament starts at the beginning of the year and from then on, the team meets once a month to coordinate tasks and report progress. It is a big job, and John says the key is finding people who really love the sport and are selfless, putting the success of the tournament above their personal success or recognition. This being the third year, the tournament has evolved, and will continue to, with the team meeting after each year’s tournament to debrief and discuss what was good and bad, what changes are required for next year, what should be kept, etc. As the tournament director, John could see the individuals’ work converging and coming together to facilitate a great tournament. Another ingredient for the success of the tournament was the sponsorships. This year had two new sponsors, Gazzor Ranch and Casamigos Tequila, as well as other more regular sponsors. With the relief provided by sponsorships, the NIPBA raised over $10,000, which will be used to bolster pickleball in the local community, possibly by erecting lighting for night play , or maybe constructing additional courts. With the hard work of the tournament team, the attraction of the local scenery, and a reputation for being a well-run tournament, the Coeur d’Alene Classic is a tournament to put on your radar for 2018. Look to sign up early, as events fill up quickly!  • FOR TOURNAMENT RESULTS GO TO PICKLEBALLTOURNAMENTS.COM 42 TO SUBSCRIBE CALL 888.308.3720 OR GO TO THEPICKLEBALLMAG.COM