Team USA Makes a Big Splash at the Worlds….
…..PLUS a Pickleball Game Changer that will make you a better player.
3 more Golf and Pickleball Dentinations and Resorts,
Bourbon and Pickleball Vacation or Just Pickleball Vacations….
….and could it be that Elon is a closet Pickler?
Seeing Skechers Red!!!!!
Team USA’s historic sweep makes them
“The BIG DILL”
Canada surges to make North America dominant at the
2025 World Pickleball Championships
No one was surprised by the Team USA’s “Golden Sweep” securing the overall World Cup trophy after clinching top honors across the three main team categories: Juniors, Open, and Seniors.
While Canada, failing to make it out of the Qualifying round a year ago, a Team of 40 strong landed in Fort Lauderdale, flags flying high and rallied to be the only team out of 68 delegations to have a Top 8 finish in all 3 Divisions.
The 2025 Pickleball World Cup was the largest assembly of national pickleball talent to date, underscoring the sport’s explosive global expansion. The event attracted top-tier talent from every continent, with teams from countries like Canada, Mexico, India, Israel, and Bermuda making historic runs in various divisions.
Team USA’s victory was a commanding display of depth, talent, and home-court advantage. Unlike tournaments that focus only on professional players, the World Cup tests a nation’s entire pickleball ecosystem, from its emerging youth to its experienced veterans.
Other International Teams making a statement at the 2025 Championships were:
Team India: the Indian contingent surprised many by achieving a massive medal haul and finishing a commendable seventh overall in the national rankings.
Team Isreal: coming out of nowhere, in their first ever tournament winning a Golf and 2 Silvers.
Team Bermuda: The reigning Caribbean Champions showcased regional strength by claiming eight medals (three gold, three silver, two bronze) in the pre-World Cup and lower-level divisional tournaments, demonstrating that solid development programs are flourishing in smaller nations.
For Team Canada, their Program is still in building mode, with no funding, challenges to find practice courts the dedicated Team dinked and smashed there way to that Top 8 in the World, falling just short in the quarter finals in a gut wrenching 20-22 dreambreaker. Thank you to all who donated to the Team.
Kudos to my friends on Team Canada and the entire Team for that matter. An extra thank you to all the everyday picklers that contributed to the GoFundMe for the Team.
The Pickleball World Cup 2025 concluded in spectacular fashion, cementing its place as the premier international competition for the fastest-growing sport in the world. Held on the vibrant courts of Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
What more can you say than; Pickleball has Gone Global!
Selkirk and Tesla Engineers Collaborate on Co-Designed Pickleball Paddle
Could It Be – Elon a closet Pickler
Selkirk Sport has partnered with Tesla engineers to introduce the Tesla Plaid Pickleball
Paddle by Selkirk, a next-generation paddle that merges Tesla’s industrial design and aerodynamics expertise with Selkirk’s advanced paddle engineering. Sparked by an initial connection at the 2023 USA Pickleball National Championships, the collaboration evolved through on-site design sessions at Tesla’s Fremont factory and extensive prototyping in Selkirk’s Coeur d’Alene R&D lab. The result is an elongated, edgeless paddle with an aerodynamic open throat, optimized for faster swing speeds and reduced drag, paired with Selkirk’s PureFoam™ core, TPU Power Ring, MOI Tuning System, advanced carbon-fiber face, and InfiniGrit™ surface for enhanced power, control, stability, and long-lasting spin.
Selkirk Sport – We Are Pickleball
Pickleball Game Changer
The Worlds First Wearable Pickleball Training Aid
“Practice does not make perfect. Only perfect practice makes perfect.” Said the
legendary American basketball coach and player, John Wooden, that won ten National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) national championships in a 12-year period.
The Pickleball Gamechanger designed by Certified Pickleball Instructor and 7-time Gold Medalist in his State Games and Senior Olympics, Worth DuPerier has introduced the first wearable device designed to transform your pickleball game from the ground up. Built to help you master consistency, control, and precision, this innovative training tool gives players of all levels the feel and feedback needed to perfect their technique.
By visiting the website you can see over a dozen short tutorial videos demonstrating “Dinks & Volleys, Third Shot Drops / Reset shots and playing, From the Baseline.” Watching the videos alone help you to visualize the shots.
Stabilize Your Wrist, A floppy wrist is the #1 source of inconsistency in pickleball. With the GameChanger, you’ll train your wrist to stay stable through every shot — ensuring a consistent angle, solid contact, and the foundation for perfect footwork. Over time, your
muscles and mind will memorize the ideal position automatically.
Master Grip Pressure, Control starts with the right grip. The GameChanger’s patent-pending design helps you develop light, confident grip pressure — key for controlling hard shots at the baseline or soft dinks at the kitchen line. Feel the difference as your touch, accuracy, and confidence skyrocket.
Perfect Spin & Trajectory, By maintaining the proper wrist angle, the GameChanger allows you to generate and control spin and trajectory like never before. It isolates forearm rotation — the secret behind pro-level topspin shots — so you can attack from both forehand and backhand sides with precision.
DuPerier realized as an instructor there is that gap between instruction/demonstration and student execution. The Pickleball GameChanger does just that! Check it out and your game might just reach that next level. The Pickleball Gamechanger
Golf and Pickleball Vacations Anyone?
Check out these 3 Amazing Settings
Black Desert Resort Reveals Plans for Pickleball Courts and
Partnership with Professional Pickleball Association and Greater Zion
Black Desert Resort, Southern Utah’s desert gem surrounded by stunning Vermillion cliffs, and ancient black lava fields is a premier destination for luxury hospitality, golf, and outdoor adventure, is set to expand its recreational offerings with the debut of 21 state-of-the-art pickleball courts in Spring 2026. The expansion includes a Championship Court with seating for up to 1,000 spectators, with future phases set to add eight more courts.
In partnership with the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Greater Zion, Black Desert will host the Greater Zion Cup in 2026 — a premier tournament that will draw top players and pickleball fans from around the world. As one of only five Cup events on the Carvana PPA Tour, it represents one of the most significant stops on the professional circuit. Cup tournaments award 1,500 ranking points, compared to the 1,000 points typically available at Open events, making strong performances here especially valuable for players looking to climb or secure their position in the world rankings.
Anchored by a 19-hole Tom Weiskopf signature championship golf course, Black Desert Resort provides the ultimate escape from everyday life. The course features unique lava field landscapes and risk-reward holes. Black Desert Resort is one of the only destinations to host both a PGA TOUR FedEx Cup event and an LPGA tournament. The 2024 PGA tournament marked the return of the PGA TOUR to Utah after more than 60 years. Enjoy the bonus par-3 hole offering sweeping 360-degree views of the surrounding red rock desert.
For more information on Black Desert Resort Black Desert Resort
Kentucky Trifecta
Pickleball, Golf and of Course Bourbon
I know that I am addicted to Pickleball, Golf has been a lifetime passion and let’s just call Bourbon a passion too! LOL. My first visit to Kentucky it was all about the Bourbon, and the world-famous Kentucky Bourbon Trail. The birthplace of Bourbon offers and experience like no other. You will discover the flavors, the craftsmanship, and legendary hospitality. There are 46 Distilleries on the Trail with an additional 14 tasting rooms with the majority being found in and around the 4 major centers of Louisville, Lexington, Frankfort and Bardstown. Kentucky Bourbon Trail®
Note: not all distilleries are part of the Trail, Buffalo Trace is not and one that should be included on your visit to the Bluegrass State, the gift shop alone is worth the stop. Other favorites include: Makers Mark, the most beautiful presentation, Woodford Reserve, and for dining and sampling nothing beats Jim Beam and Heaven Hill.
LEXINGTON KENTUCKY’S PRMIERE INDOOR PICKLEBALL FACILITY!
Pickleball Paddock, I did not get a chance to visit first time around, but started following
them in Instagram. Learning that Whiskey Thief Distillery was a facility sponsor made it that much more inviting. Of course, a seperate visit to the Distillery was also a priority.
The Paddock is a state-of-the-art facility with 9 Pro Cushioned indoor courts and 5 outdoor courts plus a full Pro Shop. The most welcoming co-owner Jack Botz will tell you, “We truly have something for everyone – public is welcome. Members enjoy many benefits such as half price court fees and open plays, members only leagues, tournaments and events. Lessons are also available. While playing outside, one might find themselves being stared down by the majestic Stallions of the world-renowned Calumet Farm right next door.
Pickleball Paddock
I would be remiss if I did not mention that on occasion, Whiskey Thief does get involved with Tasting Events for participants. One could say that dinking could lead to drinking, which is another form of getting pickled!
The Whiskey Thief Distillery is about 30 minutes from the Paddock, in rural Franklin County, on a 127-acre working farm, is a celebration of single barrel Bourbon crafted by single batch distillation. For Bourbon wanderlusts who know there’s nothing like uncovering a hidden gem, Whiskey Thief Distilling Co. is a destination unlike any other. Whiskey Thief Distilling Co.
The Perfect Blend: The Kentucky Golf Trail combines unparalleled golf, world-famous bourbon, and legendary horses—all in one unforgettable journey. The Kentucky Golf Trail curates premier golf experiences across the Bluegrass State, blending top-tier courses with behind-the-scenes horse farm tours, exclusive bourbon tastings, and vibrant local entertainment. The Kentucky Golf Trail
The Perfect Host; Lexington Kentucky, the Horse Capital of the World. It has been awarded “Best Small City” in the USA by Conde’ Nast Traveler in both 2024/25 and in 2025 also ranked #1 “Most Tourist Friendly” in the USA.
Lexington is also a bourbon lover’s paradise, go figure why I love it so much! There are 18 renowned bourbon distilleries nearby offering a firsthand look at the history and craft of America’s native spirit.
Diverse Dining, for every pallet, the culinary scene in Lexington is a feast for the senses. Here you’ll find an eye-popping number of restaurants, café’s, bakeries, and bistros serving eclectic fare and fresh takes on Southern classics. Personal favorite, Carson’s on Main, my must stop and it is a fun time dining at the bar with a football game on!
Unforgettable Equine Experiences, tour hundreds of stunning Thoroughbred farms. Meet horse racing’s legends and future superstars. Experience the historic beauty and pulse-pounding thrill of Keeneland Racetrack.
Horse Capital of the World: Lexington, Kentucky
JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa Debuts
All-New Turnberry Isle Racquet Club
The iconic South Florida resort spanning 300 acres of accessible luxury, is proud to announce the debut of Turnberry Isle Racquet Club — a dynamic expansion of the resort’s celebrated wellness and fitness offerings. The new facility, opening on December 15, 2025, introduces three pickleball courts and two padel courts, providing guests and club members with fresh, engaging ways to stay active.
Of course they do have 2 golf courses as well, the Championship Miller Course and the Soffer Course. These 36-holes are unlike any other in Florida. They bend and stretch past tropical landscaping. In 1970, legendary course architect Robert Trent Jones, Sr., created 36 masterful holes of golf. In 2007, World Golf Hall of Famer Raymond Floyd added his own style with a spectacular forty-five-million-dollar renovation. Each hole is framed by indigenous tropical landscaping, creating a privacy barrier so that each foursome feels as though they are the only players on the course. Sight lines from the tee demand as much strategy as distance of the shot. Contoured fairways, clever doglegs, undulating greens and strategically placed hazards provide plenty of challenge. In September 2018 a new 18th hole debuted on the Soffer Course. The newly renovated hole is a 435-yard par four and requires a precise tee shot over water to a narrow landing area.
JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa
Have Paddle will Travel
From a family business back in 2018 to a thriving pickleball academy that continues to grow by offering unique and ‘taylored’ pickleball development programs, events and vacations to players across North America and beyond.
Taylored Pickleball Academy (TPA) stands at the forefront of pickleball training, offering an elite experience designed to refine and elevate every player’s skill. Dedicated to excellence, their students will tell you that they provide high-level coaching, cutting-edge techniques, and personalized instruction to ensure each player achieves their full potential on the court.
One value that has never waivered is their passion for this sport and their drive to provide exceptional experiences to all whom they meet on the court, wherever in the world that court may be……they have taken people to destinations such as Mexico, Punta Cana,
Croatia, Costa Rica and more.
No kidding about “wherever in the world that courts may be!” In the past 2 year, and Taylored Pickleball Academy has escorted over 500 picklers. 2 groups of 60+ to Mexico, mucho number of cervaisas and tequila off the court. No doubt some fine cuisine, from the kitchen of course and vino Tinto for the 48 that ventured to Italy.
Destinations in play for 2026 include: Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic, the South of Italy, Mexico, Croatia, Greece, the Okanagan in Western Canada, PEI on Canada’s East Coast and a most unique adventure to Whitehorse and Dawson City in the Yukon. Of note: when you travel to Canada your US Dollar gets you about 30% on the exchange, not to mention the much more pleasant temps than certainly in the US South.
Pickleball is better when paired with extraordinary travel experiences.
TPA’s Pickleball Vacations! Emerse yourselves in breathtaking all-inclusive or bucket-list destinations for an unforgettable week of training, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or just starting your pickleball journey, you’ll receive expert coaching from TPA’s elite instructors while exploring stunning locales. You will come home with elevated skills, have met fellow enthusiasts, and created lasting memories on an the ultimate pickleball getaway.
Time and issue but want to play better pickleball???? Ranging from 1 to 3 days in length and offered at various locations across Canada, these camps are perfect for players seeking to elevate their game but have limited time to dedicate to training. TPA Camps are designed to deliver high-impact pickleball instruction in a condensed, focused format, expert coaching, targeted drills, and dynamic gameplay.
I can only imagine a BIG KIDS CAMP, where the quality of dinks could depend on the quantity of drinks LOL!
For more information: Taylored Pickleball Academy
Contact email is info@tayloredpickleballacademy.ca
SEEING RED – Skechers Red
From just before Christmas when the Skechers e-blast titled Radiant Red crossed my desk, I have been Seeing Red! Self admittedly I love the color Red. As I guy who wears Loudmouth clothing big bold colors are my thing. I am just waiting for the day when Skechers comes out with red golf shoes and pickleball court shoes.
Skechers have shoes for just about any occasion, I know I have them all from sandals, to golf and court shoes and some that I can get by with as dress shoes! Here are a couple of red delights that caught my attention.
Slip-ins: GO WALK Flex – Grand Entry: Step-in to convenient walking comfort and cushioning. Designed with their Heel Pillow®, this sporty vegan slip-on features a mesh
and synthetic upper with stretch laces, a Skechers Air-Cooled Memory Foam® insole, and lightweight ULTRA GO® cushioning…..and you’ve gotta love that they are machine washable.
Slip-ins: Glide-Step Pro: Step into flexible comfort, designed with their Heel Pillow®, this stretch-laced style features a mesh upper with synthetic hotmelt overlays, a Skechers Air-Cooled Memory Foam® comfort insole and a Glide-Step® geometric cushioned midsole. Also machine washable!
Skechers, “The Comfort Technology Company” provides a wide range of comfortable and stylish footwear for work, sports, and everyday wear, featuring technologies like Arch Fit and Max Cushioning. Check out local stores or browse online for the latest collections, clothing as well. Check on line and you might find some of their great products on sale. Why not! Skechers
