Bragging Rights

I have had the privilege of attending every U. S. Open tournament since it’s conception in 2016. The tournament has always been, and is now more so than ever before, a truly world class sporting event!

For the Pro’s and their rankings, “The Open” is the equivalent of winning Wimbledon in tennis or the Masters in golf.

Even for amateurs, the bragging rights of being a U. S. Open gold medal champion are huge.

Conversion of the facility for the event, which is being held at the Naples Pickleball Center (NPC), located at East Naples Community Park (ENCP), is a huge undertaking and even though the tournament is not until the week of April 23rd through the 30th, preparations are already underway.

The covered teaching courts are closed and are in the process of being converted to the Zing Zang Championship court.  All lessons and clinics have been relocated to various courts throughout the facility to provide an environment which is as convenient and user friendly as possible to both daily rotational players as well as the lesson/clinic attendees.

New and improved overhead lighting is being installed under the big blue awning and the new welcome center and pro shop is scheduled to open May 9th.

Large tents will be set up in the front parking lot area to accommodate the food and pickleball equipment vendors.

Grandstands with smaller tents and awnings will be erected court side on all banks of courts to provide shaded seating for match play viewing. 

In addition to all of the preparations that will be ongoing over the upcoming month, we are in the height of season and no matter where you go or what you are doing, places are crowded and lines are long. So let’s all remember to be patient, be nice, and be proud that ENCP and NPC, aka “ The pickleball capital of the world”, is home to the U. S. Open Championships.

Wayne Clark is a professional tennis instructor with over 25 years’ experience coaching players on all levels of the game. Wayne is also qualified in pickleball instruction and is on staff as an instructor with The Naples Pickleball Center and Training Academy at East Naples Community Park. Contact Coach Wayne by email at coachwayneclark@aol.com, or by or by phone or text at 239-450-6161.