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By Jennifer Lucore & Alex Hamner
You Never ‘ Arrive ’
These past 13 years competing and teaching pickleball we constantly hear , “ When I get to ____, then …”
When I get to skill level 4.0 , then … When I master the soft game , then … When I get my knee replaced , then … When I get in better shape , then ... You get the idea .
We ’ ll save you some mental stress and time and share that in this sport you never really “ arrive .” Even for the best players of the sport , their game is constantly evolving — new paddles , new shots , new aches and pains , new goals , new partners , another tournament or backyard battle . You don ’ t arrive to the top of your heap and just settle . There is always another player better than you or striving to be — always !
Pickleball is the greatest game of all time . And it ’ s the most fun game of all time ! So , take that fun with you on the court and play to your heart ’ s content — don ’ t worry about things like : I haven ’ t played for awhile , or I still haven ’ t perfected X , or my clothes don ’ t match . ( Do worry about not having court shoes on , though !)
You are where you are — embrace that . Take it in . You can go out on the court and play : a luxury in some eyes . You are healthy — OK , somewhat healthy — take what you have today and enjoy your play . Be mentally and physically invested in your play today . Be happy you are playing . Take in your surroundings and appreciate the now .
Remember , a 20-minute walk is better than a 3-mile run you never start , and having your pickleball pals over for takeout is better than never hosting an elegant dinner party . And having fun on the court is better than sitting home and procrastinating .
Appreciate the awesomeness that is playing pickleball , and just have fun with your time carved out on the court , the games you play , and the balls you hit . •
Alex Hamner and Jennifer Lucore began playing and competing in pickleball in 2010 and have both been inducted into the Pickleball Hall of Fame . They are co-directors of training and development at Naples Pickleball Center , Pickleball Capital of the World . They are best known for winning Women ’ s Open Doubles at Nationals for four consecutive years ( 2011-2014 ). For more pickleball fun , visit Jennifer ’ s blog at
allpickleball . com .