Chris Evon and Terri Graham , Co-Founders of the US Open . Photo by Bruce Yeung ; IG : @ yeungphotography .
working on two years out . “ Companies are working hard to innovate , but manufacturers can ’ t be the sole support , or the sport will decline . Sponsorship needs to come from outside the industry as well ,” he notes .
According to Selkirk Brand Ambassador Paul Olson , Selkirk employs a full-time material scientist : “ We developed the Vanguard laminated carbon fiber face . We have a uni-directional fiber overlay for tennis players .” Selkirk has 250 sponsored players , and Olson himself has had visual acuity training and is on the AAU volunteer board to get kids playing pickleball . Players benefit from the contributions of the vendors in so many ways .
Vendors are definitely a big part of the experience for spectators and players alike at the US Open . They highlight the trends as equipment continues to improve . Facilities continue to expand — East Naples Community Park is building a visitor center alongside its 60 courts . Players exhibit greater skills and athletic ability . Tournament operations are streamlined and responsive . Sponsors are increasingly drawn to the sport as they see professionalism moving forward . This year ’ s US Open delivered a glimpse into the future of pickleball , and the players enjoyed the party . •
PICKLEBALL AND JEWELRY pickleballandjewelry . com
419-699-0921
The most technically advanced visor on the market .
Patented Sweat Seal re-directs the sweat back and away from your eyes !
Alice Tym was ranked 13th in the world for tennis in the ‘ 60s . She ’ s been named USPTA Coach of the Year and is a USPTA Master Professional . As a 4.5 pickleball player , she won gold in Huntsman , NSGA Nationals , US Open , and USA Pickleball events around the country . Alice is an IPTPA member , SSIPA founding board member , Bainbridge Cup Originator and gold medalist in Spain , Italy , and Germany .
H A L O H E A D B A N D . C O M
MAY / JUNE 2021 | MAGAZINE 49