Albert and Cathy Ball recently enjoyed an unforgettable experience at the 2024 Skechers Pickleball English Nationals held in Bolton. As partners in both life and sport, the couple brought their A-game to the tournament, representing Salisbury with pride. Competing in the Mixed Doubles 3.5 60+ division, they fought hard in the finals, narrowly missing out on the gold medal to Janet Black and Chris Wilson. Reflecting on the day, Albert and Cathy expressed that their achievement marked a cherished moment in their journey together on the pickleball court.
Albert shared how they first discovered pickleball while visiting their daughter in Canada about two and a half years ago. Intrigued by the sport’s unique appeal, they decided to try it upon returning to England. He emphasized the sense of accomplishment they felt in earning a medal, especially in a division filled with younger competitors. “It’s rewarding to see more people joining the competition, especially with expanded age groups. Being able to medal at our age, playing alongside younger participants, is something special,” Albert noted.
Cathy echoed his sentiments, highlighting the excitement of the intense final matches. “We played three close games, each one challenging in its own way,” she said. “The thrill of competing in such high-energy pickleball games is amazing.” The sport, which involves using paddles and a perforated ball on indoor or outdoor courts, originated in 1965 in the U.S. as a backyard game for children. Since then, it has rapidly gained popularity in the UK, attracting players of all ages and skill levels.
The 2024 English Nationals, which took place from October 31 to November 3 at Bolton Arena, broke records this year, drawing 1,111 competitors from across the country. Albert expressed how the sport’s friendly atmosphere sets it apart, stating, “Pickleball brings people together in a welcoming way. It’s rare to find a sport where everyone, regardless of age, can join in and connect easily.” He added that playing against a diverse range of ages, from young adults to seniors, makes the competition more fulfilling.
For Cathy, pickleball’s unique appeal lies in its accessibility for all generations. She believes there’s no other sport in the country that allows players to compete with family members across different age groups. With the sport’s continued growth and widespread appeal, pickleball is creating more inclusive athletic experiences. As the Balls reflect on their memorable day, they look forward to seeing how pickleball continues to bring together players of all ages and backgrounds.