by Tina Woo, Membership

Our 2nd Annual Nisei Ski Club Pickleball Social was held on Saturday, November 4 at the Sunnyvale Tennis Center.  Rain was originally forecast but we had a sunny, gorgeous, “blue bird” day.  16 players signed up for the event, which included 12 NSC members and 4 non-members.  Our group included experienced players and some completely new to the pickleball sport. The stadium courts were reserved from 9-11 am which kept our group together without interruption from other players and clubs. There was no “waiting time” and all players were on the courts for the full two-hours of instruction and play. Cindy and Steve, the Lifetime Activities “Pros” provided instruction, drills, strategies and critique of play. We had two groups of experienced players and two groups of beginners and advanced beginners.

There was one minor crash but no injuries in the advanced beginner group.  Everyone enjoyed the event and had a good time playing. Steve stated he enjoyed teaching our group and played with the beginner group. It looks like the instructors enjoyed themselves as well because they were contracted for one hour of instruction but spent two hours with us.

Participant comments included:

“It was a real pleasure to meet you all and reacquaint myself with the Nisei group. I had so much fun learning how to play pickleball for the 1st time. Instructor Cindy was very hands on with great tips and cheered us on when we had good technique which was very encouraging. Would definitely play again.”

“Cindy provided really good drills and suggestions.  She is enthusiastic, knowledgeable and shares her great positive energy.” Very knowledgeable and unafraid to step right in with drills and suggestions for improvement.”

“There were enough players at the same level to drill and play with.  It was nice getting a different perspective on strategy.  The drills were different than the ones I know and I learned some new tricks.  If only I could incorporate them into my game.”

“We really enjoyed today’s pickleball lesson and play.  Steve’s instructions were very straightforward and easy to follow.  Furthermore, he went over the game basics, player positioning and scoring.”

After the pickleball event, a group of seven continued with the lunch afterwards at Bonchon in Sunnyvale for Korean fried chicken, Bulgogi fries and tacos! 

An enjoyable fun event for all.  Hope you can join us at the next one.