By Alice Tym
The 2022 NSGA National Championships in Ft . Lauderdale , Florida , didn ’ t disappoint .
Ft . Lauderdale hosted nearly 12,000 athletes participating in the National Senior Games Association National Championships . More than 1,500 were pickleball players from all over the United States who had qualified in state games across the country .
This year the rock stars of senior pickleball played on the concrete floor of the Broward County Convention Center using the outdoor Franklin ball . Hard-hitting was the style of play that attracted crowds of other pickleball players , volleyball players , and basketball players who were playing nearby . Senior pickleball has been energized by athletic newcomers and wise experienced players like Peter Popovich of North Carolina . Even though Peter is an accomplished player , he takes lessons from Dipesh Rao of Greensboro and advises everyone to “ always be learning . Tiger Woods has a coach .”
The level of play has risen noticeably across all age groups . This tournament is a great place to learn by watching and talking to the top players . You can sit courtside and hear their strategies as well as chat with coaches . Peter says the secret of men ’ s doubles is that he plays with SSIPA founder Ford Roberson . Peter explains , “ It ’ s important to find a partner you like hanging out with . You need to have regular communication both prior to and during the match . You must determine who is the alpha dog . Ford only knows alpha , so we have to communicate on the court .”
The Villages ’ famous pickleball coach Deb Harrison was there each day and is always willing to help players .
She also had a good showing in table tennis during the second week . Rick Hobson and Charles Batt are both top instructors who were available courtside . The atmosphere was solid gold for players , people who want to learn , and spectators who want to see some razzle-dazzle . Nashville rock stars Dave Johnson and Steve Steakley capped off the tournament with a Men ’ s Doubles 50-54 shootout win , 11-9 , 11-9 , over The Villages ’ team of Jeffrey McLain and Eric Wilson .
For the first time since pickleball became an NSGA sport , players under 65 outnumbered players 65 and over . Jana Spano explained that she was a workaholic who needed a “ fun gym ” for exercise and found pickleball . She explained that the secret of women ’ s doubles is knowing how to support and motivate your partner . “ There is a difference between being a coach and a partner . On the court you need a partner , not a coach ,” Jana says . “ Listen more than talk . Check your ego at the door . You must be willing to be a better partner . The NSGA celebrates the greatness of seniors . It provides an opportunity for everyone to celebrate their light . God bless the National Senior Games .”
Jana also represents the new glitz in pickleball . Matching outfits on the ladies , cute tennis dresses and skirts , halter tops … fashionistas are everywhere on the courts now . More players from tennis , more younger players , and taller players all bring a new look . And it was not just on the court . Ft . Lauderdale illustrates that capitalism is alive and well . A water taxi ride will take you past mansion after mansion , yacht after yacht . There is a