SPA Members Volunteer for Edwin Road Trash Removal
Raymond H. Goettsch
On Feb. 17 SaddleBrooke Pickleball Association (SPA) members volunteered to remove debris and trash from the sides of Edwin Road. SPA Board President Terry Jackson supervised the semi-annual clean-up project.
SPA’s Ladies APPL Team Victorious
Nancy Dowell
A hard-fought pickleball match took place at Robson Pickleball Center on March 12. SaddleBrooke Pickleball Association’s (SPA) Ladies 65+ 4.0 APPL (Arizona Pickleball Players League) team, Soft Serve, earned a match victory over the Dove Mountain Team, Gallery Gals. In nail-biting matches, which had the spectators on the edge of their seats, SPA’s team, led by Cindy McAlbin and Susan Deskovich, entertained the crowd with their skill, determination, and competitive spirit.
The home team, consisting of three two-player teams, played two games against each of the three visiting teams. In the end, the points were tallied and the winner was declared. Soft Serve displayed heart, grit, and very skillful pickleball and emerged victorious. SaddleBrooke’s winning team was well-represented by Cindy McAlbin and Jackie Kline, Sue Deskovich and Janine Sullivan, and Joan VanMatre and Kristy Johnson.
Though the Southern Arizona League has a 65+ ladies category, the age group was combined with 50+ teams because of the lack of entries in the 65+ age group. This was the only match between the two teams entered in the same age category. The teams will meet again at Udall Park to play for a regional title. From there, the result may qualify Soft Serve for further play against other Arizona State qualifiers.
Thank you to the other team members and the spectators for supporting the team in this match with spirited cheering and encouragement! Soft Serve is grateful to be given the opportunity to host league play at our beautiful home courts, Robson Pickleball Center.
Congratulations to Soft Serve!