In this episode, we sit down with Joel Clark, a rising star in the Cincinnati pickleball scene who recently achieved a triple crown victory at Dink Cincy. With a background as a collegiate tennis player, Joel shares his fascinating journey from picking up his first paddle just two and a half years ago to competing in APP tournaments today.

Episode Highlights:

Joel's pickleball origin story, starting with a $15 paddle and getting beaten by seniors
The transition from collegiate tennis to competitive pickleball and how the skills transfer
Insights on the differences between tennis and pickleball doubles strategy
Joel's experience winning the triple crown (singles, doubles, and mixed doubles) at Dink Cincy
How to prepare for APP tournaments and manage tournament nerves
The balance between drilling and playing matches to improve your game
Finding the right doubles partner whose game complements yours
Advice for beginners and those playing their first tournament
How Joel maintains a healthy mindset toward competition
The current pickleball tournament scene and costs associated with higher-level competition

Whether you're new to pickleball or looking to take your game to the next level, Joel offers valuable insights on improvement, tournament preparation, and maintaining the joy of the game while pursuing competitive success.

Connect and play more pickleball in the Cincinnati area at:

The Pickle Barn in Alexandria, Kentucky
Sawyer Point
Aces Pickleball Club
The Pickle Lodge

Mastering the Transition; How a Former College Tennis Player Conquered Pickleball in Just Two Years

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