Rod Badgley, VP, Sun Lakes Pickleball Club Cottonwood
Pickleball fever is set to sweep the town this fall as a brand-new community league launches on Tuesday, Oct. 14. Presented by the Sun Lakes Pickleball Club Cottonwood (SLPCC), with eight spirited teams: the Roadrunners, Bulldogs, Huskies, Sun Devils, Buckeyes, Coyotes, Hawks, and Jackrabbits, the league promises fast-paced rallies, local pride, and plenty of court-side excitement.
A Season to Remember
The regular season will run through Dec. 17, with matches scheduled every Tuesday and Thursday at 1 p.m. on courts 5, 6, and 7. To accommodate extra play, the first Monday of each month will also feature games. Each day, three matches will take place simultaneously, ensuring all teams stay active and the community has multiple games to watch.
Thanksgiving week will be a scheduled break, giving players and fans alike a chance to recharge before the final push of the season.
The Road to the Playoffs
After nine weeks of round-robin competition, the top four teams will advance to a high-stakes playoff, set for Dec. 18 and 19. Semi-finals will determine who moves on to the championship, where bragging rights and community glory await the winners.
More Than Just a Game
League organizers designed the schedule to be balanced, with each team playing 14 matches in the regular season. The setup ensures variety in matchups while also giving fans a chance to see their favorites compete on different courts throughout the season.
“This league is about more than pickleball,” said Mike Anecito, league commissioner. “It’s about bringing neighbors together, building friendships, and giving people something to look forward to twice a week.”
A Growing Sport
Pickleball has quickly become one of the fastest-growing sports in the U.S., thanks to its accessibility and fun, social atmosphere. David Douglas, club president, added, “This league is the latest example of how local communities are embracing the game and creating opportunities for both seasoned players and new enthusiasts.”
Community Spirit on Display
Fans are encouraged to come out and support their teams, with games free to watch and open to all ages. Whether cheering for the hard-hitting Roadrunners or the crafty Jackrabbits, spectators will find plenty of action, camaraderie, and hometown pride on display. SLPCC is one of the largest community organizations in Sun Lakes, with more than 450 members. For more information, go to their website at slpcc.net.
The season promises not only competition, but also connection, and it all begins Oct. 14.