Why not brave the cold and take part in these pickleball bashes?
We’ve chosen two of the best New Year’s pickleball events for you. The first in Massachusetts has a rich and varied history, while the second in Wisconsin is well-known for its freezing temperatures yet still attracts large numbers of players!
Polar Bear Pickleball Bash
The New Year’s Polar Bear Pickleball Bash is a recurring event taking place on Monday, January 1, at 10 AM in Pocasset, Massachusetts.
Modest Beginnings
From modest beginnings, this tradition has grown substantially and is now entering its seventh year.
As Callie Remillard of capenews.net reports, this event was initially established as an informal gathering of pickleball enthusiasts on New Year’s Day 2018, coinciding with the Monument Beach Polar Plunge.
It has now evolved into a highly anticipated event within the Bourne area and the wider pickleball community.
Individuals of all skill levels in pickleball are invited to participate in the bash, which will take place at the tennis and pickleball courts at Pocasset Park on Barlows Landing Road.
Keeping Out The Chill!
Attendees are encouraged to bring equipment like nets, paddles, and balls, as well as food, snacks, dessert, and hot beverages to keep out the January morning chill!
Participants are also kindly urged to contribute to the Bourne Food Pantry, the designated beneficiary of the event. Last year’s gathering successfully raised $1,400 in support of this local cause.
Robert Zibbell, a key figure behind the pickleball bash, penned a response to Jack DeWitt’s column on Bourne’s pickleball scene. Zibbell, who often partners with DeWitt in play and co-initiated the inaugural Polar Bear Pickleball Bash, highlighted the group’s commitment to perpetuating this tradition in a letter to the editor.
The Bourne Pickleball Dissociation
The group humorously refers to themselves as “The Bourne Pickleball Dissociation,” a moniker which Zibbell explains: “When it is that cold, and we are so bundled up, we are not even sure who we are.”
They continue to oversee the New Year’s Day Polar Bear Pickleball Party and Play in Pocasset, scheduled for 10 AM on Monday, January 1, at the Pocasset courts, contingent upon weather and court conditions.
In case of adverse weather, such as rain or snow, the event will be rescheduled for the following Sunday, January 7.
For inquiries, individuals can reach out to Mr. Zibbell at [email protected] or 508-395-5476.
Polarball Pickleball Event
The fifth Annual Polarball Pickleball event, organized by the Door County Pickleball Club, is set to commence at noon on Monday, January 1.
Sub-Zero Temperatures
The bash will take place at Sunset Park in Sturgeon Bay. Last year witnessed 75 individuals braving sub-zero temperatures to participate in the tournament.
The Door County Pulse reports that this inclusive event welcomes players of all skill levels and backgrounds.
Selkirk Pickleball, the prominent pickleball equipment manufacturer, is sponsoring the gathering. It will provide the balls and has generously contributed numerous pickleball-related giveaways for participants.
All Are Welcome
Even those unfamiliar with the game are encouraged to drop by and discover why Pickleball has become such a phenomenon in Door County.
From its humble beginnings with a handful of participants five years ago, this event has grown into one of Wisconsin’s most renowned outdoor pickleball gatherings, not just on New Year’s but throughout the year.
