PickleCon Convention Recap: Scorpions' Grit and Glamour
By Brenda Tilford
The PickleCon in Kansas City was a whirlwind of pickleball excitement, dazzling costumes, and high-stakes NPL competition. Despite facing formidable challenges, the Coachella Valley Scorpions delivered a performance that will be remembered.
Injuries and Invaluable Substitutes
The Scorpions faced a tough weekend with key players Dayne Gingrich and Johan Svensson sidelined due to injuries. Their absence was deeply felt, but the team’s depth shone brightly as Mark Malott and Vince Van Patten stepped into their roles. Vince, a former professional tennis player with a career-high singles ranking of World No. 26, brought a wealth of competitive experience to the court. Mark Malott, with his extensive pickleball background, proved that the Scorpions' strength goes beyond their usual lineups.
A Thrilling Start
The weekend kicked off on a high note with Ryan and his wife, Evyn, clinching a gold medal at the amateur tournament. Evyn’s dual role as a gold medalist and a dedicated supporter of the Scorpions added a special touch to the event.
Friday night’s 70s-themed party was nothing short of epic. John Reid, Piet Aldrich, and Keith brought the disco era to life with their fantastic costumes. The energy was exciting, setting the stage for an unforgettable weekend. Co-Owners Bobbi Lou & Rob Zwemmer also balled out and won a mixed doubles medal and Ruth Ann Poppa and Don Zuker joined in the fun cheering with equal flair and enthusiasm.
Team-breaker Triumph and Intense Battles
Saturday’s action kicked off with a heart-pounding Team-breaker against Seattle. Lily Kordic-Mueller and Keith Jain delivered an impressive victory, even as Lily battled through an injury. Despite going down, Lily’s determination saw her rise again, leading to a dramatic comeback. The win was secured after a gripping Team-breaker, which was a crowd favorite. The Scorpions' lineup showcased their resilience and skill, securing a well-earned victory amidst the electric atmosphere.
The emotional roller coaster of the NPL continued with yet another Team-breaker in the afternoon. Although this match didn’t end in victory, the team's effort and determination were evident.
A Strong Finish
Sunday brought its own set of challenges and memorable moments. As the team geared up for the final matches, I found myself struggling with low energy due to neglecting my caloric intake. My confusion on the court was challenging, and I was finding it difficult to keep up with the fast-paced action. During a crucial timeout, the team rallied around me, providing much-needed support and encouragement Kim and Ryan’s graciousness and calming presence were particularly instrumental. It was in this moment of need that I was unexpectedly buoyed by a handful of Smarties candy, which provided a surprising boost and helped me regain my focus. With renewed energy, I was able to contribute to the team’s efforts in a meaningful way, and we secured a vital victory in our final match against Naples.
The weekend as a whole was a testament to what the Scorpions embody: community, friendship, competition, sportsmanship, camaraderie, and inspiration. From the highs of victory to the lows of exhaustion, every moment underscored the unique and intense nature of the NPL experience. The camaraderie and support I experienced were a reminder of why this team is so special.
