First ever Pickleball Tourney held

By Seth Beaubien

TN News Contributor

Girdwood’s first pickleball tournament was a smashing success as the Girdwood School gymnasium echoed Friday night to the sound of cracking drives, deft dinks and admiring applause. 

Four Valleys Community School Executive Director Beks Rumley and Jarrad Griffith aced the planning, and created a competitive round robin and double elimination bracket set that ensured court time and fun was had by all.  

Girdwood’s first pickleball tournament was a smashing success as the Girdwood School gymnasium echoed Friday night to the sound of cracking drives, deft dinks and admiring applause. (Photo by Seth Beaubien)

“It was incredibly fun all around, and really encouraging to see so many of the Girdwood Pickleball Club members on the courts tonight," Rumley said. 

"We had a handful of pals drive in from Fairbanks, Anchorage, and even Homer--a true commitment to the sport, and a great example of its accessibility. We are stoked to have our first ever pickleball tournament completed, and with so much success. We cannot wait to plan for the next one in the Spring!” 

Aaron Love (left) and Barbary Lydon are pickleball regulars.  (Photo by Seth Beaubien)

The final was an exciting, fast paced, family affair with father/son-in-law pairing, Cal Lauwers and Matt Wilson, defeating father/ daughter team, Therrol and Sarah Andrews. Amy Craker Hellon and Gus Brewer received most improved awards in the Four Valleys’ league that is making a positive racket, socially and physically for the health of the Arm.