Tuesday P'ball and Annual Picnic - May 22, 2012

Beautiful Pickleball day. Another good crowd of players were on hand to romp around the courts and socialize at will. There were 20 players - more or less. This the list that the UPG Publications Conglomerate, Inc. came up with: Bob T, Bob H, Lynne, Anne, Sharon, Jan, Mike, Steve, Gary A, Gary, Walt, Bill S, Sandy F, Ray, Ralph, Johnny, Claude, John, Gene and Ron. The matches were fast and furious and we kept at it for almost 3 hours with the crowd dwindling as the time went flying by. Our new players are coming along just fine and most now mingle in matches with more experienced players. They all have their own paddles. Gary A has been hounding them, with considerable success, for a contribution toward our ball fund. - Ray had to quit early today with a bum foot. Unlike some of us, he has the good sense to stop playing when his body tells him to. - Where is Joe M you ask? He kind of disappeared a few weeks ago. The UPG Player Representative liaison consulted w/ Joe. During his last p'ball session he somehow stubbed his toes and managed to fracture two of them in the process. So, he'll be out of commission for a while. - Gene is heading to the Granite State for the next few months so we'll have to find someone else to pick on in his absence. Any ideas?

Below: Jan on the move.

Below: Bob T and Johnny both going for the ball. Who got it?

Below: From Top Left clockwise: Ralph, Bill S/Sandy F, part of the City of Greenville fleet, Lynne and Gene.

Before we broke up at about Noon, the entire parking lot was occupied by virtually every heavy truck owned by the City and mostly men in orange safety vests were milling around - some watching our matches, others had a beefy, pick-up basketball game in full swing and two men started a tennis match on court 5. Apparently the workers and family members (or, office staff) were having some sort of outing.

They seemed to be having a good time and probably well deserved. Good for them. We had a good time too. So, we are even.

Spike

Arbor Day P'ball - Friday, April 27, 2012

There were some big plans for this Arbor Day p'balls session POST, but the staff got sluggish, then lazy and finally ran out of time - so this blog entry will be a much shortened version of what was originally intended to to be several pages of mindless drivel.

Friday was bright and warm; perfect weather for p'ball and the large turnout of 18 players. Here goes: Jan, Bob T, Mike, Gary, Gary A, Lynne, Hank, Craig, Sue, Gene, Carol, Johnny, Steve, Ray, 2-session-veteran Julie, newbie Judy and Sharon and Ron. That should be approximately 18?

Several salty UPGers worked with the newer players on one or two courts while the other hard-hitters beat up each other (and, themselves) on two of the the other 3 courts. As usual there were many exceptional matches including the one shown below where Gary A and Steve (foreground L-R) face off against Bob T and Mike (L-R). 



Below CW from Top L: Sharon (Cupcake to her friends), Lynne (Ace) and Gene (Pop).

Hot of the press: Gary A (Collector of Revenue, Ball Buyer and general all-around handy-man) reports that we UPGers are now the proud owners of 60 brand-new, yellow P'balls which will complement our currently-in-use, scuffed and somewhat abused 40 or so balls of many colors. So, we are back in business. See you on the courts.

Spike

FriBall - April 20, 2012

We had a good turnout today including five folks who were present at the P'Ball Expo (see BLOG dated April 16, 2012). They were Amy J, Carol F, Pat C, Andrea H and Julie. They came to watch - but two, Andrea and Julie got into some instructional action on Court 1. Some of these guests will be taking a Furman University OLLI course this June - presented by Johnny and Carol. That's Carol below: she looks a little spastic - but, fear not students - she is actually trying to get a ball out of her pocket and hammed it up a little for the UPG chief photographer who happened by.

Thirteen UPGers were present: Gary A, Gary, Mike, Hank, Steve, Johnny, Carol, Craig, Sue, John, Joe, Sharon and Ron. The troops kept at it for about 2-1/2 hours and many excellent matches were racked up. The newer players (no longer newbies [lucky devils]) have all improved, some in leaps and bounds. All are pretty much armed with new paddles and UPG verve.

Below. From L-R: Top - Johnny, Sharon; Bottom - Joe, Mike/Carol,

Below. From L-R: Top - Hank/John, Steve; Bottom - Craig/Gary, Gary A

So, another UPG session is in the books. Everyone left the courts under their own power and in fairly good spirits. That's what we strive for, although it is not essential that players do both. Yuk, yuk. Having fun in the sun, whaling away at the ball, letting go with some well aimed barbs and engaging in a few games of 'guts p'ball' is what it's all about. Any questions?

Tempered

  

Friday the 13th. April 13, 2012 - P'ball Session

As reported by Steve:

We had 15 players and 3 courts going at one time, and some players practicing on a 4th court. We had plenty of A games and a mixture of both going. It was a beautiful afternoon for playing, sunny and 70. Here's the list of names: Mike, Gary A, Gary H, Bob T, Lynne, Joanie, Ray, Gene, Joe, Johnny, Carol, Ralph, Peter, Hank and me. And believe it or not, I didn't forget any names. We kept at it for about 3 hours and there are no injuries to report. That's it for now. See you when you get back.

 

Steve

 

Welcome back Bob T.

 

Roving reporter

Manchester, CT

Spike

Tuesday P'ball. April 10, 2012

Warm with squirrely winds. That fine weather brought out 13 players - all men. A rare event for UPG sessions. Players: Gene, Mike, Steve, Gary A, Gary, Ralph, John, Johnny, Joe, Ray, Hank, Peter and Ron. We kept 3 courts busy for about 2-1/2 hours. Logged more than a few exceptional matches and several very long rallies. Everyone managed to stay upright - which is one of our goals. The other is - if you manage to execute some sort of an unintentional dive while trying for a return - that you finish the shot, preferably winning the point. Then, have your wounds dressed.

Below L-R: Joe sporting his brand new paddle and Johnny.

Below: Ralph letting one fly.

Above: Pop on serve.





Experienced players: Check with Gary A. He is looking for volunteers for a Pickleball Exhibition on Monday, April 16th. Greenville Rec. Dept. Pavilion @ 6:00PM.

Short and sweet BLOG report. See you on the courts.

Spike

good Friday - for two, that is - April 6, 2012

That's Spike in the red; Gary is the guy in the grey and black. Both wondering where everyone else is? Very cold, (notice the gloves), blustery, and damp courts greeted us at 9:30 AM sharp. Johnny arrived a little later. He walked from the parking lot without his paddle and he left the door open on the car. That told us right off that he didn't come to play. He (and we are guessing that Carol was cozy in the car) came to briefly conduct Pickleball business. Will report later. Johnny took the photo above to confirm our presence.

We played one match of singles while we anxiously awaited other players. The courts were in the process of self-drying helped a lot by the wind. It also added some spice to our match.

Nothing else to report.

Spike

Friday - March 30, 2012

Above: Carol (Lash) and Sharon (Cupcake) soaking up the only shade within strolling distance.

Well, we had a beautiful SC day and a large turnout of 17 as follows: Carol, Johnny, Peter, Gene, Gary, Gary A, Mike, Steve, Anne, Anne R, Jan, Sam, Hank, Joe, Ralph, Sharon and yon editor-in-chief. Two courts were designated for the 'saltier' players and 2 for the newer recruits. Veteran players worked with the newer players on the designated courts and some are coming around nicely and have moved into more challenging matches.

Hank, who has a new paddle, played 3 matches with the Green Monster (the backboard) and ended up winning 2 of 3. Joe and Sam have also ordered new paddles - perhaps others have as well. So, things are looking up.

The challenge is - to try to keep folks playing in competitive matches.  Some newer players catch on very quickly and can readily move into matches with stiffer competition. Other folks will take longer and some my not be able to advance beyond the beginner stage. No one should play - or, try to play beyond their capabilities. We want everyone to enjoy the sessions, but want no one to get hurt in the process.

Below: From top left clockwise: Steve (Stevie Wonder); Lash and Gary; Anne (Pit Bull or Duchess); Ralph.

Below: From top left clockwise: Johnny (Hoot) and Hank (with new Champion paddle); Gary (No Nick Name) and Carol; Steve and Jan; Ralph and Mike (Spidy).

Beginning Tuesday, April 3, 2012 we will start our sessions at 9:30AM (or, 0900 hours for you military types. Players can come whenever they please; no need to be there necessarily at 9 sharp, but it's a good idea to arrive before our normal quitting time - usually 2-1/2 to 3 hours after we begin. That's if players are still alive and kicking by then.

See you on the courts.

Ron (Spike)

Hectic Friday P-Ball March 16, 2012

Beautiful, busy day. Fourteen UPGers were on hand. Ten prospective players also joined us as a result of the March 15 Greenville News article about our group. Some of the prospects tried out the game and a few played several matches. At one point all five courts were occupied, but there were notable shortages. Paddles, balls and tie-downs. We have divided the ball into three bags - each of which contains at least two tie-downs and about 30 balls. The bags are delivered to each session by Steve, Gary A and yon editor. G and S were not present - a rarity for both to be absent. Virtually everyone was playing - each player with their pockets stuffed with balls (nine by Bob H, alone - just kidding). Balls that did stray, weren't shagged, because we were also short on shaggers. Whew. So, things were very hectic, but we made it through the session.

UPGers in action: Mike, Peter, Jan,  Joanie, Sharon, Carol, Johnny, Sue, Sharon, Lynne, Gary, Ray,  Gene and Ron. Thanks for loaning your paddles and for assisting our visitors.

I guess there were some exciting games, but it was hard to tell with all of the activity! No time for pictures except the one above.

SPECIAL NOTE: We retrieve a purple Elite paddle with a wrapped handle w/ no name attached. Will bring it to the next session. REMINDER: If you haven't done so already - put your name on your paddle.

See you next week, or on Tuesday whichever comes first.
Spike

Click and Scoop.- P-Ball - Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Today UPGers were photographed and interviewed by Greenville's version of the Paparazzi or Pavarotti or something like that. Only, on a much smaller scale. Gary A arranged for the interview by Amy Clarke, with photographs by Owen Riley Jr both of the Greenville News. Click and Scoop joined us on the courts for about an hour. Several players were interviewed and a batch of action photos were taken. We enjoyed their company and they enjoyed the games and the bright day.
                                            

 Below: Gary A being interviewed by Amy.

We had 15 players on hand and everyone was on their best behavior! Players: Ron, Sharon, Gary A, Gary H, Mike, Bob H, John, Johnny, Carol, Jan, Joanie, Gene (Pop), Ralph, Steve and Peter. Gary H was kind enough to take a rather impressive dive - not too far from the photographer. Shots were taken of the event, but we don't know if they will be made public.

Below: Peter and Steve vs Mike and John.

Below: Pop and Sharon

Below: Yummy brownies lovingly prepared by Mrs. Buckeye (Geri) and delivered fresh by Bob H (aka Buckeye).

Even with the novelty of having Amy and Owen present, we managed to keep 3 courts awfully busy and had our usual assortment of matches and mis-matches. Many hard-fought games were duly recorded. A swell time by all on a bright, breezy day.

UPGers have already been notified about the availability of the photographs. You will be notified when the story appears in the Greenville News.

Spike (Extruded stainless).

17 on the 17th. February 17, 2012 - P'ball

That's Anne and Ralph (Check Ralph's determined expression!)

We had a real crowd today - in fact, probably a record of some sort. The UPG statisticians are currently checking the official archives. A report may or may not follow. Anyway, the day was a beauty and it brought out a mob of players. Here they are: Johnny, Carol, Lynne, Ralph, Steve, Gary, Gary A., Anne, Gene*, Peter, Mike, John, Karen, Ray, Jan, Sharon and Ron. *Welcome to Gene. Today was his first time playing P'ball. He got the basics down pretty quickly, probably because of his tennis background. We played him hard, but he was able to get to his car unassisted after playing for two hours. That's a good thing.

With 17 players, we occupied 4 courts for the first time since moving our entire operation to Gower Park. It was quit a sight to see that much action. Many fine matches ensued. Action continued for almost 3 hours. By then the crowd was whittled down to 5, then 4 for two more rounds of it's "my last game."

Above: Clockwise from bottom left: Gene, Sharon/Steve, Gene/Gary A (foreground), Anne pouching/Ralph and ball on court.

Above: Gary A returning a serve.

Stay tuned to this BLOG and check your email early and often. You will be receiving important info about upcoming P'ball events.

Extruded RR Spike

GoodOldDays - Pickleball - Tue, Jan 24, 2012 - Gower Park

The weather finally cleared after a few glum days and we were presented with  a sunny day with the temperature reaching 60 degrees F. Just a little breeze. Lots of folks enjoying the park: John (Hercules) was giving tennis lessons; basketballers were in action, disc golfers all over the place; families enjoying the playground; walkers and gawkers; 3 teenagers occupied the Patton Tank. UPGers out in full force - eleven in all: Steve, Mike, Bob H., Peter, Anne, Jan, Sharon, Gary, Gary A, Joanie and Ron.

We, as always, played UPG-styled Pickleball and had a lot of fun doing it. Kept two courts busy and even allowed some time for gabbing and socializing. A few players were shelled, being the recipients of overhand kill shots from some of the longer players. No one needed medical attention, though. And, that's a good thing. We played for almost 3 hours. By the end of the session we were reduced to 4 players. No problem there. Two more doubles matched followed. Both beauties. The last one - a nail-biter -  was won by Mike and Gary A, over Steve and Ron - 13-11. End of a fine day.

See you at the next session. Bring your best game and wear a smile.

Spike



P'ball report - Friday, Jan. 6, 2012 - Gower Pk

No pictures today.

A very bright day and a pretty good turnout considering some of our 'regulars' are resting up in Florida or traveling here and there.

We had a new player join us today for her first pickleball attempt. Karen, a GNHA hiker, tennis player and former racquetball player did well and we hope to see her again soon.

Otherwise, these folks showed up and they came to play: Mike, Steve, Gary H, Bob H, Jan, Lynne, Sharon, Ralph and Ron. That would amount to 10 players for those of you who keep track of such things.

As always there were many games played, including a few Canadian Doubles matches.

Fun in the sun and some excellent matches. Looking forward to the next session.

Spike

'Level Play' - P'ball - Tuesday, 11/15/2011 -

An overcast and warmish day brought 11 players to the courts at Gower Park. Bob H even showed up, proof positive that he did not meet his maker contrary to oft-repeated rumors. Joanie was there too - after a short hiatus. In all: Johnny, Carol, Peter, Joanie, Bob H, Bob T, Mike, Steve, Gary, Ray and Ron.

Today was the first day of trying to maintain (on a trial basis) court play at two skill levels (Advance and Intermediate). It did or didn't work very well - depending on your point of view. For some, the process of assigning players to the Advanced court was a little awkward.

Nevertheless, there were many exciting matches on both courts and everyone got to play as many matches as they were up for.

Johnny showed the troops one of his many model planes that he has made over the years - a beauty made of balsa wood. I wish I tore myself away from the 'A' game court to take a look! (A pointed Editorial comment).

Above: The good old days.

See you on the courts.
Spike

11/11/11 - Veteran's Day - Pickleball

Eleven, eleven, eleven. And, Veteran's Day.

Nine players were on hand and we had a beautiful day to boot. Players: Steve, Lynne, Carol, Johnny, Mike, Peter, Gary A, Gary and yours truly - but, not all of the time. We played long and hard and, as always had many good matches and at least a few that went into 'overtime'.

Note: If you haven't chipped into the Pickleball Fund - please see Gary A. the cost per person is $10. That whopping amount will most likely keep us supplied with Pickleballs for a year. This amounts to the paultry sum of 20 cents a week.

And: We are looking to recruit more players to help fill up our 5 courts, to bring some new blood into our group and perhaps to allow for different levels of play. If you know anyone who might be interested in taking up Pickleball - have them contact someone in the group, or bring them along to a session and some of our players will work with them on a separate court. You will be hearing more about UPG's growing pains in the near future. If you have any suggestions about recruitment, please contact Gary A.

Spike

Pickleball - Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Yon Editor and former complaint processor was on the road - so, match scheduler/ball handler Steve-E-Wonder passed this sketchy info along to the UPG publishers for your reading pleasure (or, displeasure). Either way there is no charge for this information, and IT IS NOT COPYWRITE PROTECTED.

Players: Gary A, Gary, Anne, Mike, Bob T, Peter, Ray, Jan and Steve.



Coming out of the woodwork - Tue, 11/1/11

We had a sparkling day and it brought out a good crowd who promptly occupied 3 courts. Here goes: Joanie after a 2 week absence, Johnny and Carol (out of commission for about two weeks but on the way toward a full recovery from colds), Ron and Sharon (travels, a little surgery (Ron), cold symptoms) both at about 75% after a 5 week hiatus, Jan, Steve, Anne, Peter, Mike, Gary and Bob T. That would amount to about 12 players - give or take a few. Ralph (recovering from surgery) came by to say hello. He'll be out of action for about another month.

It was good to have so many players on hand. As a result there was a lot of good action and many fine games. Some of the recovering players shortened their session but stayed on to gab and watch the final matches.                               

See you on the courts.
Sterling Stainless Masonry III

Tuesday Pickleball - October 25, 2011 - Where...?

PICKLEBALL QUINTET

Present and accounted for: Steve, Mike, Ray, Gary and Anne. Averages 1 player/court!

85% - Spike

Friday P'ball - October 21, 2011

A day - long on beauty - short on players. In action: Steve, Gary, Anne and Mike.

Double-headed 14d
On the mend

Back in the groove (almost) - Pickleball session - Tue, 10/18/2011

Yon reporter, reported in today after a 3 week leave of absence. Great to see 9 UPGers hard at it on a beautiful day at Gower: Players: Jan, Steve, Lynne, Carol, Peter, Johnny, Gary, Mike and Bob T (welcome back from your travels). Also on hand was a potential new addition to the UPG - George.

Watching the games was hard work, but fun never-the-less. Plenty of action and even a hint of merriment! George had a chance to practice at singles; looks like a good prospect. We can always use more players. Of note: Ralph has had his back surgery and reports that he's On The Road Again. He's doing fine and thanks all those who wished him well. If you didn't wish him well - then, you are up the creek.
For those of you who like to keep track of the number of your pickleball sessions - you are in luck. Stevo has kept a tally of all of the unreported sessions. The UPG Publications Division has posted the information in the 5 BLOGS preceding this post. Thank Steve next time you get a chance. If he didn't keep track of the sessions your individual playing session records would have been unavoidably lost to history.

Also: We will be collecting money from all active players for our ball fund. Watch your email for the the exciting notification.
Spike

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

PRESENT: Gary, Peter, Jan, Anne, Ray, Johnny, Carol and Steve.

Galvin