The US Open gives a chance for
friends from all over the US to
gather and have fun. Sue Wong (CA),
Laura Fenton Kovanda (AZ), Mary
Henne (MI), Bobbi Phoumy (TX),
Barb Wintroub (CA).
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What
Makes
the
So
Special?
BY ALICE TYM
y now everyone knows the story of Chris Evon and Terri
Graham teaming up with Jim Ludwig and Collier County
to make Naples, Florida, the Pickleball Capital of the
World. The 50 courts in East Naples Community Park
are home to the US Open and a year-round pickleball
academy. The first Open had 837 participants. This year, there were
2,161 players from 48 states and 15 countries—58 percent male
and 42 percent female. The ages of the players ranged from 10 to
86. There were 534 much-appreciated volunteers.
What makes this tournament so special? Why do so many
players come, and why are they smiling? What’s the secret to the
success of this tournament? Certainly one important key is to have
50 courts located in a single venue, complete
with a covered court and stadium to highlight
pro play. Another factor is the community
support from Parks and Rec. In 2018, Collier
County officials estimated a positive impact of
$4.5 million. Minto, Margaritaville, and Zing
Zang have been loyal sponsors. Minto has even built an upscale
housing development next door! Melissa McCurley and her pt.com
operations team did a super job of seamless play. The new check-
in app helped players and eliminated lines. Most of all, the hard
work of Chris and Terri combined with their good business sense
and sports promotion backgrounds keep the US Open innovative
and fresh. They listen to the players, who love the intimate setting
where everyone is together under lots of tents enjoying the party.
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