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 

P'ball Expo - The Pavilion - Mon. Apri; 16, 2012

The Greenville Senior Games Pickleball Expo was held Monday, April 16, 2012, from 6:00 to 7:30PM. A brief introduction to pickleball was given by Gary A, followed by a demonstration of the rules by our players on one court. UPG members including Mike, Steve, Joanie, Lynne then played a vigorous demo game for the crowd of about 30 seniors who were mainly participants in the Senior Games and who oohed and aahed loudly at various points during the game. A less vigorous but still challenging game was held simultaneously on court 2 with Gary A, Johnny, Pete, and Gene (AKA Pop).
For the next hour, a mini-clinic was held with about 20 of the audience trying to hit balls, and in a few instances actually playing games. Joni Dilworth, the Greenville County Recreation District Director of the Senior Games, did a splendid job providing the courts, the portable nets, paddles, and balls for the event which was played on the in-line skating rink at the Pavilion in Greer. And the members of the UPG that participated showed themselves to be excellent teachers of and ambassadors for the game of pickleball. All in all, a great time was had by all.

Gary A

Upstate P'ball Editorial Division

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





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



Almost Spring - Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Warmish weather for this time of year, but that didn't stop a good crowd of  'regulars'  from showing up and at least six newbies who appeared from over the horizon. This Bloggist and Gary A arrived at noon to give a little clinic to two new players. Other prospects arrived during our regular 1:00PM session and were helped mightily by Gene and Johnny with plenty of assistance from the rest of the troops.

This time around we had all three bags of balls, plenty of tie downs and extra paddles including two woodies bought and brought by Gary A.

The system worked out well with the new players limited to 2 courts - while learning the ropes; otherwise, we kept 4 courts busy with plenty of exciting action. In some cases, new players were moved right into regular games while those just getting the hang of it were content to take instruction and play with their novice cohorts and at least one seasoned UPGer.

UPGers in action: Mike, Steve, Bob H, Johnny, Peter, Jan, Sharon, Gary A, Gene (prefers to be called Pop), John, Ray, Joanie and yon editor/bloggist/bullthrower.

Newbies: Anne R, Judy K, Sam G, Henry B, Jerry and Cyd C.  It's always nice to have new blood (a figurative term, of course - right Gary?) on the courts. We welcome you new players and hope you enjoy learning the game, improving your skills and mingling with your fellow p'ballers. After this blurb, you won't be saddled with the moniker 'Newbies' so you can rest easy.

Lost but not found by owner: A purple ELITE paddle. Check your equipment. If you have not put your name on your paddle yet - it's a good time to do it.

See you @ Gower.
16d

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).

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

Pickleball Report - February, 21, 2012

Above: Joanie on the left. Anne (Pit Bull or Duchess) top right and Gene (call him Pop) below.

We had stragglers at the beginning of the session and some folks slipped away after an hour or so. But, we had 11 players for a period and a court-full stuck it out for about 2-1/2 hours. It was windy so each game was somewhat of a challenge - but, very sporting. Players in action: Mike, Steve (feeling punky with a cold, but tough, nevertheless), Gary (hit 'em into the top of the net) A, Gene ("call me Pop - that's what my kids call me."), Ron, Ray, Karen (ordering a paddle), Joanie, Anne, Ralph and Peter.

Below: Top L-R: Gary A, Peter; Bottom L-R: Pop/Spidy, Stevie Wonder.

That's it for now folks. That's all there is. There isn't any more.* See you on the courts - preferably when and if you are vertical.

Golden Spike

*Who said that after every curtain call? First correct answer gets an autographed Pickleball (your color choice - signed by the famous person's personal, unofficial, unauthorized representative.



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

 

Baker's Dozen - P'ball - February 3, 2012

Like silverfish, players came out of the woodwork today and we ended up with a baker's dozen. Present: Steve, Joanie, Anne, Lynne, Ron, Bob H., Mike, Peter, John*, Karen, Ray, and visitors Ken  and Susan.

Anne and John

*John returned to action after an almost 6 month hiatus after taking a fall the last time he played on August 12, 2011. The August 12 session marked John's 1st session w/ us in several months while recovering from a hip replacement. It was good to see John back in action.

Susan and Lynne 

Ken and Susan dropped in on us today shortly after arriving from Michigan to visit family in Greenville for a few weeks. They hadn't even taken up housekeeping yet and still had their dog in tow. But, they joined us in several matches and we enjoyed their visit. They've got their priorities in order! Susan was kind enough to leave a really nice windbreaker at the courts. Now, in safe hands.

So, with fine weather and a mob of players we occupied three courts and played on for almost 3 hours. As always the day ended with 4 players battling it out. Everyone was still standing at the end of the day. Thanks for that.

Spike

Last day of balmy Jan. 1/31.2012

We had a very nice day. About 60 degrees, breezy and sunny. Plus: 10 players were on hand to battle it out, including Ralph who has been vacationing. The tally: Steve, Peter, Jan, Sharon, Joanie, Ron, Gary A, Ray, Ralph and Bob H.

Not much to report except that we played for about two and 1/2 hours and had a good time in the process. We even took time out to socialize, leaving 2 courts empty for more than a few minutes. To finish off the day the remaining 3 players played 3 Canadian Doubles matches. And, as most of you already know - and, we proved the point again - if you have 3 players of more or less of the same skill level and they are all on their game - the solo player has little chance of winning. That's the way it went, although Stevie Wonder held on but finally lost to Ron and Gary A - 11-7 - or, something like that.

There are some 2012 Pickleball events coming up as follows:

1. The Greater Greenville Senior Sports Classic - Greenville. April (date TBT)
2. Pickleball Expo. Pavilion Recreation Center - Monday, April 16 @ 6:00PM.
3. The State Games (SC Senior  Sports Classic) Florence, SC. - May (date TBT)

UPGers may want to participate in one or all of these events. If so, it should help promote the sport and may very well get more folks interested in the UPG.

Watch your email. Info will be forwarded as soon as it is received.

See you on the courts.
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



Pickleball player paucity - Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Lots of folks are out-of-town, or busy elsewhere, so the turnout for p'ball was on the low side. But, five showed: Steve, Mike, Ray, Gary A and Joanie. So, you folks get official credit for your participation. And, that's big!

We are playing on Friday, Jan 13 (Friday the 13th), but don't fret about whether it is an unlucky or a lucky day. We UPGers make our own luck.

Spike

Last of Twenty-Eleven: Friday, 12/30/2011

That's Hoppy above (aka: Buckeye). Recognized by the UPG editorial staff - and honored as the 12/30/11 posterboy - because he made it to Pickleball twice in a row - in the same week! How you go. Below: Gary A and Jan face off against Steve and Sharon (background).

Present for the last official session of the UPG for 2011: Sharon, Bob H, Gary A, Mike, Steve, Joanie, Jan, Lynne and Ron. It was a marginal day, weatherwise, with a chill in the air and some light drizzle. But, we stayed at it long enough for Mike to take an impressive digger (no damage to the court recorded - so, not to worry). Had fun for about 3 hours with some exciting games including what might have been two of the longest rallies ever recorded at Gower Park. Can't swear to it though.

So, we'll get started again in 2012. Hope you and your's have an excellent 2012 and that you come out for many p'ball sessions.

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

Friday P'ball - 12/02/2011 - Distractions included.

Ok. Here's the scoop. We had a beautiful, bright, no-wind, long-shadow day, only a few distractions and 9 players: Mike, Steve, Gary A, Ron, Johnny, Joanie, Anne, Jan and Ray. We occupied 2 of the 3 center courts while the two end courts were busied with tennis players. And, we got along famously. We played for about 2-1/2 hours, shifted players around at will and enjoyed a sparkling day of p'ball and camaraderie. The thing about Gower Park is that you can always count on some distractions.
We have the final approach to Runway 1 of the Downtown Airport which is 3/4s of a mile away - (as the crow flies) and is directly over the courts. So, there's plenty of action overhead with planes coming and going - especially on Friday afternoons. Then, in the basketball courts adjacent to the p'ball courts - there was a lone basketball player practicing hoops - except he was playing with a football (or, a badly misshapen basketball). A disc golf players had one of his Frisbees land in the p'ball courts. This happens on occasion and one of our players usually retrieves the disc and after two or more tries flings it over the court fence. On this day, a disc golfer - whose disc landed un-noticed in the courts - deftly climbed over the 12 ft chain link fence, retrieved his projectile, then climbed back over the fence to meet up with his companions, apparently without injury. There is never a dull moment at Gower, but the courts are great, they dry quickly after a rain and the lines are easy to see. So, who's complaining?

 We had a good day with lots of action. Looking forward to the next session.
See you then.
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