May 18, 2012 - Friday P'ball report

Yon editor was roaming in the NC mountains, so Gary A was kind enough to provide the names of Friday's 16 players: Diana L (a new player; welcome to the UPG), Ray, Hank, Ralph, Johnny, Carol, Claude, Peter, Gene, Sandy F, Walt, Bob T, Mike, Jan, Steve and Gary A.

High-carbon

TuesdayBall - May 15, 2012

This photo is the first attempt at a grope group picture since the last one taken on October 12, 2010. The players very kindly stopped their matches and lined up as requested. It would appear, after a close examination that - tempting as it may have been - no one put up 'rabbit ears' behind anyone's head. The photo will liven up a bit if you click to enlarge it. We had 21 players on four courts and things went smoothly. Don and Hank, our most exuberant new players, both made running/lunging attempts at out-of-reach balls, but thankfully they did not take any divots out of themselves or the courts.

Players: (All included in the group photo above): Gary A, Bob H, Mike, Jan, Karen, Lynne, Sharon,  Bill S, Don, Sandy F, Dan L, Barbara L, Bob T, Johnny, Carol, Gene, Hank, Peter, Ray, Steve and Ron.

Goodies: Bob H brought a nice batch of brownies lovingly prepared by his darling wife Geri. As always, Hoppy brought a little table for the brownies, napkins and baggies so players could bring some of the treats home. The goodies were NOT extorted from Bob for leaving a folding chair on the court last week. The chair was absolutely NOT held for ransom as some people hurtfully implied. In the past, items left behind have been held for a FINDERS FEE, but in no way would that be considered a bribe.

Pickleball: Nothing unusual here. Many fine doubles matches and a good mix of players. Near the end of the session about 6 singles matches were also held. As everyone knows, there is a lot more running around in singles matches than in doubles. Here, you have to work on ball placement and strategy. Everyone should try playing singles - you may take a beating if you are out played, but you'll improve your skills if you don't wear yourself out first.

Also: We were paid a visit by two Greenville Rec staffers. As already mentioned, we had a full house so they got to see our group in full force.

See you on the courts.

Hammered Head (Not hammerhead!)

Friday P'ball - May 11, 2012

A bright day, gusty winds and 21 P'ballers added up to an exceptional day at Gower. We occupied all five courts and kept at least one of them smoking for almost 3 hours. Players: Bob T, Claude, Steve, Mike, Karen, Johnny, Carol, John, Gene, Lynne, Anne, Sandy F, Don, Sharon, Hank, Bill S, Ray, Joanie, Barbara L, Dan L and Ron. The wind caused some wayward serves, but most players figured it out and compensated accordingly.

Below: Reflecting. Self portrait in Lynne's shades.

                                                                Below: Kibitzing.

                               Below: Returns. From Top Left Clockwise: John, Johnny, Don, Bill S.

Below: From Top Left CW: Bob T, Sharon, Karen, Barbara L

Below: Anne. aka - Pit Bull or Duchess - your choice!

Not too much to report. The pictures say it all (each picture is worth a thousand words. Remember?). We had loads of players, lots of matches, good weather. Any questions?

Hand Extruded 

May Day - not mayday. Tuesday, May 1, 2012

It seemed like a 'mayday' might have been called for by the way folks were invading the courts. Twenty five players to be exact. But, for the most part pandemonium was averted and order prevailed. Some folks were on the courts for 3-1/2 hours still slamming away. These new players joined us today: Eddy S (Carol's brother), Walt J,  John and Sandy F and Don D. They have all played p'ball or other paddle sports and did well during their first session with the UPG brawlers at Gower Pickleball Stadium. Welcome to Uptate Pickleball. Notice about all photos posted in this Blog. They can be enlarged somewhat by left double-clicking on them. Also: If anyone wants any of the images yon Editor will glady email copies. And: If you are mis-identified, or are not included in the text please let the Publishing Division know via email c/o Spike.

Above: From Top L Clockwise: Sue, Mike (Spidy), Sandy, Bill S.

Below: From Top L Clockwise: Karen, Sandy/Pop, Walter, Pop/Gary A, Lynne (Ace).

Below: From Top L Clockwise: Bob T, Pop, Sharon (Cupcake), Steve E Wonder, Carol (Lash)

Today was a banner day, not just because we had one of our largest crowds of this century, but we also had 60 spankin' new, yellow balls delivered by Purchasing Agent Gary A. So, our satchels are full of balls and we are good to go for a while.
Note: With four courts in action folks may end up sitting around when they would prefer to be playing. You are encouraged to rustle up some players and start a match. Best to chose folks who are in your general skill range to assure a competitive and enjoyable match. Experienced UPGers are encouraged to work with new players and new players are encouraged to gradually work their way into the stronger matches.

http://usapa.org/officialrules/

See you at Gower.
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

Grade A or Gray Day? Tuesday, April 3, 2012 - P'ball

UPG: Now on summer hours: Sessions begin at 9:30AM.

Gray or Grey? Look it up. Whatever you settle for - the day was overcast with just a slight breeze. Perfect for P'ball. Fifteen players were in action and in fine form. Though, two will be dressing their wounds before the day is out*. Players: Mike, Steve, Gary A, Gene, Johnny, Carol, Ray, Joanie, Craig, Sam, Joe, Bob H, Peter, Sharon and Ron. Sue was also on hand - but out of commission while recovering from surgery. But, she kept busy shagging balls - so we let her stay!

We tried, and mostly succeeded in maintaining two levels of play. When they weren't beating each other up, experienced players worked with our newer players on courts reserved for that purpose. Some rookies already show considerable improvement both in the mechanics of the game and the rules of play.

Mug shots

Joe and Craig both took tumbles. From the judges' reactions - it would appear that Craig got the highest score (always thoughtfully unpublished by the UPG) - but, perhaps a 9.0. The higher than usual score for the Full Frontal Digger (FFD) most likely came about due to the graceful 360 degree roll Craig executed after hitting the court. J and C both dusted themselves off and carried on for several more matches. The courts were unharmed, except for a small divot near the base line.

Above from top L clockwise: Spidy dealing, Carol/Joe, Johnny, Stevie Wonder. 

Highlight: Gary A and Ron (one of the UPG Mutt and Jeff teams or muttonjeff) broke a sorry record when playing against the dynamic duo of Stevie Wonder and Spidy (Steve and Mike). Up to today G and R have averaged .25 points per game (PPG) against the duo in the previous 4 matches. The teams faced off again today. In a losing effort, G and R pounded home 7 points against S and M - thus, (trying not to brag here, but can't help it) our PPG surged to - get ready: 1.6! Please hold your applause.

Another fun day of Upstate P'ball.

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)

Tuesday - March 27, 2012

Beautiful p'ball day and mobbed courts. We had 13 veteran players: Mike, Gary A, Steve, Ralph, Bob H, Johnny, Carol, Joanie, Anne, Peter, Gene, Sharon and Ron and 9 new players: Anne R, Joe, Joan N, Richard N, Sam, Hank, Jerry and Jim and Elly (visiting from Keowee Keys). It's very likely that some players are not listed here or have been mis-identified. If so, please advise the UPG Editorial/ ePublishing Division know by emailing Spike at williriver@bellsouth.com. The BLOG and "labels" listings will be corrected accordingly.

Above: Steve (Stevie Wonder) in action. The UPG Official Vehicle can be seen in the background.

For a while we had more new players than veteran players. This situation caused some disorganization for a short while because 3 courts were occupied with a mix of players with little or no supervision while only one court was being used by experienced players. Admittedly, we UPGers were not prepared for so many new players - brought on by the recent Greenville News article. So, by mutual consent we designated 2 courts for new players and two courts for experienced players - where, eventually some of the more skilled new players were invited to play. Otherwise, many regular players, assisted the beginners on their designated courts, and in some cases individuals were given one-on-one guidance.

Overall, UPGers did an excellent job, instructing and partnering with the mostly inexperienced players, teaching them the basics, including P'ball rules, strokes, scoring and UPG protocol. Most vets were able to play in several competitive matches on the courts reserved for that purpose.

Some of the new players have ordered paddles and others are sure to do so. We recommend that, players who are not sure that they can or will continue in the sport, play for a few weeks using loaner paddles before ordering a paddle.

Once the new players are established, they will be tapped by Gary A for a $10 contribution toward another batch of balls, that are in short supply when 4 courts are in action and which wear out faster with so much more activity.

Good show UPGers and welcome to all of the new players.

High Carbon



March 23, 2012 - Music to our ears?

We had 16 players - 9 regulars - and 7 new players. Things soon got too hectic to allow  for many real competitive matches in a row. So, we limited most of the newer players to two courts where they practiced among themselves or where one or two of the regulars would work with them. This system allowed for some consecutive games among the experienced players. Thanks to the veteran UPGers who helped out with the training.

Players: Steve, Gary A, Gene, Sharon, Anne (welcome back), Lynne, Johnny, Carol and Ron. Newer players: Grizzly, Joe, Anne R, Henry, Sam, Joan N and Richard N.

The whole time were were playing we were serenaded by a Bobcat and leaf blowers (for a courtside project) and corporate aircraft. The noise was nerve-wracking to say the least. Apparently, no player totally lost his or her mind due to the racket although there is some doubt about Professor Pop. Testing is being done as we speak.

Below: Johnny and Hank

Below: Sam and Gary A

See you at our next session. Bring your best game.
Bessemer

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

P'ball. Friday, March 13, 2012

Twelve players were in action today: Mike, Steve, Peter, Carol, Johnny, Bob H, Joanie, Sue, Craig*, Ray, Sharon and Ron.

* Craig has the dubious honor of playing the least amount of time in any UPG match in recorded history (since the dawn of time) - according to our archivist, who almost never lies. Unfortunately, Craig pulled a muscle or a tendon or something like that in the 1st few minutes of the day's opening match. So he had to sit out the entire 2-1/2 hour session. Sue, showing great concern, continued playing - as she should!

We played many excellent matches - switching players at will - trying and occasionally succeeding - in having a good mix of teams and players.

As you folks may know by now a nice article, with photographs was published in the Life Style section of the March 15th issue of the Greenville News. The very nice photo of Mike and Gene mis-identified Mike as Gary A. There is a nice shot of Sharon. The hand with two balls belongs to yon editor. The article has already drawn some interest, so we may have a few more potential players showing up - starting on Friday, 3/16. Some UPGers will have to 'step-up-to-the-plate' and work with new players. Don't wait to be asked.

See you at Gower.
Case Hardened (and dis-tempered) - 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).

Guts P-Ball; Friday March 2, 2012

Eight players, 2 courts, excellent weather, great matches. Enough said.

Players: Mike, John, Johnny, Carol, Lynne, Steve, Gary A and yon scribe.

See you at Gower
High Carbon

The Eyes have it. Tuesday P'ball - February 28, 2012

This candid photo of Carol was taken by Sharon. Carol was trying out her new glasses that she claims to have purchased at a 'real bargain' price. Lucky for the other players, she didn't wear them during the matches and therefore no one had to have mercy on her - including Johnny who hit her on the 'shoulder' with a mean overhand kill shot and who will be having super on his own tonight.

We had a near record crowd of 16 warm bodies. Here goes: Gene, Gary A, Mike, Jan, Anne,  Karen, Sharon, Joanie, Carol, Johnny, John,  Ralph, Steve, Bob H, Ray and Ron. 

We UPGers occupied 4 courts for a while and played many fine matches. Had very nice weather including some wind - but, we are used to that.

Enjoy the pictures. The camera that was partially submerged on Friday, February 24th (See Brain Delayed) almost still works as demonstrated by the attached photos. So, the UPG Photo Division is still in operation.

The Pickleball courts are ready and waiting for your best game. Bring it on.

Case Hardened

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

Pickleball Action - February 7, 2012

From bottom left clockwise: SpinDoctor John, Michigan Ken/Stevie Wonder and Rambo Gary A.

Fiurteen players arrived today: Ken and Susan visiting from Michigan, Joanie, Karen, Johnny and Carol (welcome back), Ray, Ralph, Mike, Steve, Gary A, Peter, John and yon editor Ron. Give me a jingle if that doesn't add up to 14. We also had one spectator and expert ball shagger - Susan's and Ken's granddaughter Vivian (?).

We promptly occupied 3 courts, moved players all over the place and had a barrel of fun with no notable injuries to report. It was slightly windy - no problems for we UPGers - but, a slight issue for S and K who only play indoors in one-or-the other of Michigan's peninsulas. But, they soldiered on.

So, nothing else to chronicle, because no one has made a fool of themselves lately.

Be thinking about this: Having an invitational p'ball event and inviting our pals from Fletcher, Lake Lure, Lake Keowee and Conestee for instance. Will take some serious planning and more than a few volunteers. Not an original idea. We've discussed it before. Now, we are coming into the season when a lot of Snowbirds  will be returning to their homes in the 'north'. Whadoya think?

Spike

 

Tuesday Pickleball - December 13, 2011

A sparkling day at Gower Park. Disc golfers were as busy as ever and two courts were occupied by tennis players. We UPGers - 10 strong - occupied Courts 2 & 3. Players: Josee, Claude, Anne, Sharon, Steve, Mike, Ron, Johnny, Carol and Joanie. Josee hasn't been around for a while. It took her a few matches to warm up, but when she did she dropped many a dink shot just over the net to the consternation of her unsuspecting opponents. Otherwise, we played for about 2-1/2 hours and had barrels of fun. The group eventually dwindled to 4 where Ron and Mike played Steve and Claude. Each team won one match - both hard fought 'guts' matches. A rubber game will be arranged. Best out of 5?; out of 7?

Above - clockwise starting at top L: Joanie and Johnny, Josee and Claude, Steve and Sharon, Claude.

There will be a Christmas party tonight (Wed. Dec 14th). Check your email. There will be a BLOG post about the much Heralded event. Stay tuned.

Spike

FriBall PickleDay - November 20, 2011

Bright sun and a breeze welcomed 9 players at Gower Park. Players: Johnny, Carol, Mike, Gary A (featured above), Ray, Jan, Lynne, Sharon and Ron. We played for about 2-1/2 hours and enjoyed the coolish day and competitive play. Below: Lynne and Carol in action.



Below: Jan and Mike





Hope everyone has a happy and safe Thanksgiving.

Spike and Cupcake