The Midwest was well-represented at the State Games of America in Ames , Iowa . Iowa ’ s Don Gascho and Amy Brunkow won silver , Iowa ’ s Rob Paulson and Nicki Clayton took gold , and Erica Weng and Sean Bailey won bronze .
Senior men ’ s singles gold medal winners in the State Games of America were ( l to r ) Rick Kolz , Ted Anderson , Tom Franklin , Dick Johnson , Jeff Steffen and Tournament Director Jim Berger .
Women ’ s 70-74 3.5 winners were ( l to r ) Karen White and Pam Crain ( silver ), Sue Cole and Jane Hoge ( gold ) and Dianne Steinhagen and Barb Shinbori ( bronze ).
Senior women ’ s singles ( 50 +) winners at the State Games of America in Ames , Iowa , were Josie Stubblefield ( gold ), Cori McCray ( silver ) and Grace Jaworski ( bronze ). and efficient . Before the start of play , Tony presented a plaque to USAP Director of Ambassadors Steve Stone for his service in the St . Louis area . Steve was an integral part of this tournament , and the tight-knit Midwestern group of players reflects the efforts that have been made by all of the ambassadors and their leadership .
Players were supplied with bananas , candy bars , and Powerade each day . The quality of play reflected the excellent job of building facilities in the Midwest and the strong Ambassador program . Players also had the
opportunity to participate in the other sports later in the week or stay to watch figure skating , track and field , or badminton .
The State Games of America tournament deserves a special star on the pickleball calendar . Pickleball players should support multiple sport organizations in order to promote the recognition of pickleball as a serious sport . See you in San Diego in 2024 ! •
SEPTEMBER / OCTOBER 2022 | MAGAZINE 47