Dinks and smacking paddles echo off the walls of the gym at Arapahoe Community College (ACC). On October 23rd a pickleball tournament occupied the basketball court from 12-1 PM. Nick Chittum, a student and participant of this months’ event, reflects on his short-lived time on the court.
“Absolutely terrible, but it’s how all pros begin…Michael Jordan was once in this position before…Everyone has to start somewhere.” Chittum said.
Chittum and his partner only saw 2 matches in the double elimination tournament, but they plan to seek revenge in next months’ tournament on November 11th.
“I feel like my skills have doubled by even being here today…the chances of me winning next time or making it to the second round would be very high.” Chittum said.
The organizers of these events are gymnasium facility coordinator Sue Coons and the manager Derek Kates. Sue was really motivated to bring people together at the gym facility.
“We’ve always had a lot of people coming in sporadically…We’re trying to find a way to get a larger group together all at once.” Coons said.
The two staff members express their love for the game.
“It’s so different from tennis and the camaraderie, I love it.” Kates said.
“It’s a great way to burn a little energy…get around a bunch of people who just want to have fun and compete.” Coons said.
Multiple teams of students in ACC’s paramedics’ program had a pop quiz that delayed their arrival to the courts, but they pulled through and the tournament was off and running.
While Pickleball is over for this semester, check back with the gym in January. The signup sheet can be found at the fitness center desk.
