David summed up the event by stating , “ I think this tournament shows that the senior pickleball players are willing to travel and be involved in a national tournament that is just for seniors . I think the future of pickleball is with these folks and their dedication to the sport . It is fine and good to recognize and promote the professional and younger players , but forgetting about the bread-and-butter group that really makes the sport go — especially on a recreational level — is a mistake and will lead pickleball down the same road as other paddle sports that have forgotten about the true meaning of one of pickleball ’ s mottos : ‘ Sport for all .’ Let ’ s remember those folks who got us to where we are today and move forward with total inclusion in this wonderful sport .”
The upstairs venue was staffed by Tom and Susan Burkhart ( left ), Cindy Moore and Mike Hoxie . The Burkharts have played such a significant role in the development of pickleball that a tournament is being held in Daphne , Alabama , on Veterans Day weekend to honor them .
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