Aiken Pickleball News

Stacey Dezelon

by Loretta Beckner

Stacey Dezelon, along with her husband, Rich, moved to Aiken in 2010 and lived here for 5-6 years before moving back to Maryland. Sadly, Stacey passed away on May 24th following a two year battle with cancer. She was 54 years old.

In 2010, the City PRT gave Mike and Loretta Beckner permission to hold a pickleball demo at Odell Weeks. Loretta met Stacey at a meeting and approached her about learning the sport of pickleball in order to play in the demo match. Stacey and Rich were not only enthusiastic about the idea, but they picked up the sport quickly. After helping the Beckners with the demo, they remained active players and supported the pickleball program as much as possible.

Stacey will be remembered for her fun, vibrant and caring personality. She will be missed dearly by all of us who were fortunate enough to know her. Rest in peace, Stacey.

Minutes for the June Leadership Team meeting have been posted

The minutes for the Leadership Team Meeting that was held Monday, June 7th, 2021 at 5:30pm at Odell Weeks, have been posted. Topics that were discussed included an update on drop-in play at both Odell and Gregg Park; the New Players Clinics at both facilities; an update on the tournament in September; and much more. Go to Forums or click here to see the full report.

Open Play

Great turnout on Monday. Normal rotation for open play is winners stay and split, losers sit. Winners sit after playing two games. When there are more than 6 players waiting, play to 9. When there is a large overflow like there was on Monday, please play to 9 and do four off, four on.

Referees Wanted

REFEREES WANTED! Are you Interested in being a volunteer referee at Aiken’s Palmetto Doubles Tournament September 10 -12? Willing to help the referees but don’t want to be a referee? If so, please let David Hoel know (davidfhoel@gmail.com). Training sessions will be provided. Certification or previous referee experience is not required.

Take the Nets down

There is some misinformation going around. Someone told a team to leave their nets up even though nobody is scheduled after them because the nets are getting worn. While this may be the case, maintenance is unable to clean the floors properly when nets are left up. Please make sure all nets are removed at the end of each day. Thanks!