Steve Deakin, now a highly-regarded figure in the pickleball community, initially started his sports journey as a competitive tennis player. However, an unfortunate shoulder injury forced him to relinquish his tennis aspirations. What was tennis’ loss was pickleball’s gain.
Embracing The Paddle
In 2017, Deakin’s father introduced him to pickleball as a viable alternative. Embracing the paddle, Deakin found an instant connection to the sport and never looked back.
He recollects, “I reside in Pitt Meadows, a charming town just beyond Vancouver, renowned for its thriving pickleball community.”
A visit to the local recreation center marked the inception of Deakin’s pickleball journey. The rest is history, as he has since forged a gratifying career in pickleball:
“I went down to the local recreation center and played some pickleball.
“I was hooked instantly, and I never ended up going back to tennis, and I carved out a beautiful career from pickleball.”
Deakin presently holds the esteemed position of being the number-one-ranked player in Canada. He boasts an impressive record of eight Canadian National Pickleball championships and has clinched numerous prestigious accolades on the Pro Pickleball Association Tour.
Invaluable Lessons
Deakin has recently journeyed to Calgary not only to play a little but also to impart invaluable lessons to the members of the Calgary Pickleball Club.
Among his eager learners, he particularly anticipates engaging with a vibrant cohort of youthful enthusiasts:
“I find a lot of youthful membership who are extremely eager to learn. I hope with my vast experience playing on the pro tour that I’m able to share some of my insights I’ve learned on the tour with the students here in Calgary.”
Reflecting on this opportunity, Sherry Richardson, the former president of the Calgary Pickleball Club, expresses the magnitude of Deakin’s visit, remarking, “Access to someone with his level – it’s unprecedented in other sports. We want to grab him while we can, you know, before he’s too famous, and he won’t come here anymore!”
Deakin discerns a significant transformation in the demographic of pickleball players:
“I feel pickleball is a sport that you can be a little bit in those golden years and still have a great time, but it’s still a dynamic sport that a lot of youth are kind of following up on now.”
Calgary Pickleball Club
Calgary Pickleball Club is the city’s original and most expansive organized Pickleball club.
They offer recreational and competitive pickleball experiences, along with comprehensive instruction clinics and lessons.
The club offers indoor pickleball from October to April and moves outdoors from May to September.
At the heart of the CPC lies their unwavering mission: To foster and advance the sport of pickleball in Calgary, ensuring inclusivity for all.
WATCH: Calgary Pickleball Club president @TTighe joins @TracyNagai ahead of #NationalPickleballDay to talk about the recent jump in people taking up the sport. pic.twitter.com/dnNAilA8nf
— Global Calgary (@GlobalCalgary) August 7, 2020
Guided by this mission, the club has set forth distinct objectives: to foster social engagement, hone skill sets, maintain affordability, and ultimately establish a dedicated pickleball facility.
The CPC is governed by a dedicated volunteer Board of Directors comprising ten individuals committed to the club’s vision and progress.
For 2023, an annual club membership stands at $55, encompassing a $40 club fee, $10 for a Pickleball Canada membership, and an additional $5 for a Pickleball Alberta membership.
Membership is accessible to all, and you may take the next step by clicking here.
Calgary Pickleball Center
In a positive development for the pickleball community in Calgary, the inauguration of the Calgary Pickleball Center is a welcome addition to the city’s pickleball community.
This dedicated facility, the first of its kind in Calgary, promises a new era for pickleball enthusiasts. The center is located in the northeast of the city, specifically at 1145 65 Avenue N.E.,
The facility boasts 12 state-of-the-art courts, each outfitted with quality flooring and fencing to provide a comfortable playing environment. The spacious and well-maintained courts offer ample space for players to showcase their skills.
The dedicated staff is readily available to offer expert guidance and coaching to players of all proficiencies. Whether you’re a novice aiming to grasp the fundamentals or a seasoned player seeking to elevate your performance, the team is committed to assisting you.
Furthermore, the indoor venue includes inviting spectator seating, a well-stocked pro shop featuring the latest gear and attire, as well as a lounge area for players to unwind and socialize before or after their matches.
