Rod Badgley
In the southwest corner of Cottonwood Country Club sits one of the most picturesque pickleball settings in Arizona. Framed by shimmering lakes and historic trees, the courts are rarely quiet. Laughter, competition, encouragement, and the steady pop of pickleball paddles fill the air from morning through evening. What makes this scene remarkable is not just the beauty of the location, but the people who bring it to life.
In 2025 the Cottonwood Palo Verde Pickleball Club emerged as one of the largest and most vibrant pickleball communities in Sun Lakes, with more than 400 members ranging in age from 45 to nearly 100. Players from across the community now call these courts home, sharing stories of where they came from while building friendships rooted in a shared love of the game.
The year marked a turning point. After navigating a period of challenges, a new board was installed, led by Club President David Douglas. From the outset, the focus was clear. As Douglas explained, the goal was to reshape the culture into one that “amplified all of our members.” That vision quickly took hold, setting the tone for a year defined by growth, inclusion, and renewed energy.
Growing Together: Membership and Participation
As participation surged throughout 2025, the club focused not just on numbers, but on experience. New players were no longer left to figure things out on their own. Instead, clearly defined pathways were introduced to guide members through skill development and confidence building.
Each month begins with an introduction to pickleball led by longtime board member and club ambassador Bill Swift. These sessions welcome new members and connect them to structured opportunities tailored to different skill levels. The result has been a smoother onboarding experience and a strong sense that everyone—regardless of background or ability—belongs on the court.
Behind the scenes, thoughtful scheduling supports the club’s busy calendar. Court demand is high, and while members joke that the system might be powered by “flux capacitors,” careful organization has allowed the club to operate efficiently while serving a large and diverse membership.
League Play, Competition, and a Revival Worth Celebrating
League play became a centerpiece of the club’s success in 2025. For the first time, leagues were intentionally designed to include players of all levels, creating meaningful competition while preserving fun and sportsmanship. The inaugural Fall League was won by the Roadrunners, led by Coach Dean Coon, whose emphasis on confidence, teaching, and encouragement reflected the club’s broader values.
That momentum carried into the Winter League, which launched on Jan. 8 with two skill-based divisions. League nights routinely draw crowds of spectators, with more than 100 members often gathering to watch and support their friends.
One of the year’s most meaningful achievements was the revival of the Norris Invitational Tournament (NIT). Once at risk of cancellation, the tournament was saved by a small but determined group of members. Held March 3–5 and professionally managed by Pickleball Is Great, the event exceeded expectations. Beyond competitive play, the tournament raised $5,200, with $4,500 donated to Neighbors Who Care, a nonprofit supporting seniors in the community. The success ensured that the NIT remains a cherished tradition, with planning already underway for 2026.
Member-Led Leadership and Social Connection
The strength of the Cottonwood Palo Verde Pickleball Club lies in its volunteers. Committees oversee operations, training, events, facilities, and social programming, with members consistently stepping forward to lead and serve.
The Social Committee, led by Lisa Fahrion, played a key role in strengthening community bonds. Throughout 2025, members enjoyed the Holiday Chili Cookoff, Valentine’s Party, pool parties, potlucks, tailgate gatherings, cookouts, and the Spring Fling. These events foster connections beyond the courts and have helped define the club’s welcoming culture. New events are already planned for 2026.
What stands out most is the absence of cliques. Members volunteer not out of obligation, but out of genuine care for one another. The club feels truly member-led and member-driven.
Facilities, Training, and the Road Ahead
Visible improvements across the courts reflect the club’s pride and professionalism. New shade structures, benches with member dedications, upgraded furniture, clocks, televisions, and Cottonwood flags have enhanced comfort and aesthetics, supported by the continued efforts of the Phase 2 HOA staff.
Training resources have also expanded, with focused skill sessions, ball machines, and structured drills designed to help players improve safely and confidently. Safety and wellness remain shared priorities, reinforcing an environment where everyone feels supported.
As the club looks ahead to 2026, the vision remains clear. The Cottonwood Palo Verde Pickleball Club is more than a place to play—it is a place to belong. With new programs on the horizon and a continued emphasis on inclusion and camaraderie, the foundation is firmly set for many more successful years.
Introduction to Pickleball
Residents of the Cottonwood Palo Verde communities interested in learning more about pickleball and discovering what makes the club such a welcoming and active community are invited to attend an Introduction to Pickleball session. The next session is on Monday, Feb. 16, from 2:30 to 4 p.m. To learn more and to register, visit www.slpcc.net where session details and sign-up information are available