The competition was fierce in the 7.30pm grand final.
The Deniliquin Stadium’s autumn pickleball Thursday competition has come to a close, with another fantastic season of friendly competition, great sportsmanship and plenty of fun both on and off the court.
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The changes introduced during the season have been well received by members.
As a result, the Tuesday night DUPR/graded competition will continue in the 6.30pm time slot, with weekly registration through OpenSports app.
The only change will be that the first Tuesday of each month will be a non-DUPR competition, providing the same competitive games in a more relaxed environment.
The Thursday social competition finals were played last week, with some exciting matches across both time slots.
Congratulations to Slam Dink, who claimed the championship in the 6pm time slot.
The winning team consisted of Sarah Purtill, Jemmah Conallin, John Newton, Justin Purtill and newcomer Ahmed Labib.
Claire Cowley stepped in admirably for Jemmah Conallin during the grand final.
Finishing as runners-up were Dink Responsibly, featuring Eli Purtill, Matt Harber, Daniel Kennedy, Jock Perritt and Matthew Purtill.
Lane Scott filled in throughout the last few weeks, following Matthew's injury.
The remainder of the ladder was as follows: The Schnitzels, Rally Royalty, Back in the Game, Rally Rascals, Paddle Control, Pickle Dragons, The Gherkins
In the 7.30pm competition, Pickle Juice capped off an incredible journey to become champions.
Grand final players from the 7.30pm timeslot (back, from left) Angie Ison, Aimee Leifting, Cam Donald and Geoff and Leanne Mulham; (front) Travis Hanns, Ollie Ives, Darcy Finn, Jacon Norris and Will Finn.
After beginning near the bottom of the ladder four seasons ago, the young team has steadily improved through dedication and teamwork to earn their first championship.
The winning team comprised Travis Hanns, Ollie Ives, Jacob Norris, Darcy Finn and William Finn.
The grand final was a thrilling contest against Dink Floyd, who had defeated Pickle Juice in the final round of the regular season.
It made for an exciting rematch, with plenty of pressure on both teams.
Dink Floyd's grand final team included Cameron Donald, Geoff Mulham, Angie Ison, Aimee Leifting and Leanne Mulham.
The remainder of the ladder was as follows: Spin Masters, Dink Delight, Mixed Dinks, Dink Again, Dink Donalds, Party Favourites.
Between now and the next social competition starting up, there will be some free come and try sessions.
These will be held Thursday, July 9 and Thursday, July 16, both from 6pm to 7.30pm.
Grand final players from the 6pm timeslot (back, from left) John Newton, Eli Purtill, Daniel Kennedy, Lane Scott, Matthew Purtill, Matthew Harber and Jock Perrett; (front) Ahmed Labib, Claire Cowley and Justin and Sarah Purtill.
No experience or equipment is required - just wear comfortable clothing, sensible sports shoes and bring plenty of enthusiasm.
“While we encourage participants to register through the OpenSports app so we can plan court numbers, you're also welcome to simply turn up, subject to court availability,” club member Leanne Mulham said.
The winter social competition begins on July 23, and there are only a handful of places remaining.
Due to interest to date, only individual registrations for the 7.30pm competition are being accepted.
The club is also aiming to introduce a short Friday night social competition in mid-August, so keep an eye out for further announcements.
There’s also Monday and Friday morning social sessions at 9.30am, which are a great way to stay active during the school holidays and perfect for the whole family.
Sunday mornings also offer additional playing opportunities, with a special coaching session with Gail Miller this Sunday, July 12.
For more information, visit the Deniliquin Stadium Pickleball Facebook page. You can contact the club via the Facebook page messenger if you need anything further.
