Inside the Founder ’ s Legacy Cup trophy
FEATURE
Spotlight on Nationals
Top moments from the 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships
by USA PICKLEBALL photos by BRUCE YEUNG & USA PICKLEBALL
Congratulations to all who participated in the 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships , held at the Arizona Athletic Grounds in Mesa from Nov . 9-17 ! More than 2,600 athletes participated in the event , which featured top-level amateur , professional , wheelchair and junior competitors from 47 states and 18 countries vying for national titles . Over nine days of competition , 3,835 matches took place on 41 courts , amounting to 111 competition hours .
Inside the Founder ’ s Legacy Cup trophy
USA Pickleball unveiled the Founder ’ s Legacy Cup trophy at Nationals . The trophy celebrates the origins of pickleball and the game ’ s founders , Barney McCallum , Joel Pritchard and Bill Bell , while connecting USA Pickleball members , the future of the sport , with pickleball ’ s growth and longevity .
“ This trophy represents more than just a victory for those who ’ ve fought hard on their path to Nationals ; it ’ s a tribute to the individuals who created the game we love so much and to every athlete who contributes to the sport ’ s continued growth and success ,” said Mike Nealy , CEO of USA Pickleball . “ For USA Pickleball , it ’ s important
to honor the roots of the game and keep a strong foundation as we continue to evolve the sport for generations to come .”
The Founder ’ s Legacy Cup was on display throughout the tournament . The trophy , which features a vintage design reflecting the game ’ s 1960s roots , prominently displays an image of pickleball ’ s founders on the pickleball courts honoring their love of the game . Their names are displayed on the trophy , ensuring that their legacy is forever tied to the event .
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