Posted 8/23/24
Where has the summer of 2024 gone? Between pickleball, grandkids, 2 weeks in Alaska, and moving to a new (to us) home in Haverford Place, time has flown. Life is good!
Many of you have been asking, “When does 50+ pickleball reserved court time end?" The answer is October 30. The courts will remain open but no organized play and no equipment will be available.
Another question from some of our old-timers is “Are you going to order any clothes for us with the logo on them?” The answer is no with a “but". A company contacted us through our website with a great offer that does not entail us trying to keep track of orders, taking several trips to Lake Zurich, collecting money and dealing with returns.
PerfectImprinting.com | TheApronPlace.com
Divisions of Abbie Road Imprinting, LLC
1018 Cedar St.
De Pere, WI 54115
C: (920) 366-4791
PerfectImprinting has come up with a whole line of clothes and other items with our logo (developed by Sam and Terea Hanasz’s daughter-in-law) on them. As well as handling everything, they also will give back to us 10% of the items' cost to use for purchasing balls and other items needed for 50+ play.
You can browse the items by selecting the following url: https://hoffmanestatespickleball.deco-apparel.com/
Use the code NEWSTORE for 10% off the cost until Sept. 22.
We have a few items players have left behind after play. They are in the shed and will be put out on the bench for you to claim. If not claimed by the end of the season, you will have made a donation to Goodwill.
The gym floor at Prairie Stone has been refinished and will be ready for indoor play by Sept. 6 if all goes according to plan.
posted 5/22/24
All 10 courts full and players paddling up. What are you waiting for? Come and join in the 50+ play at Fabbrini Park.
Saturday, June 1, from 9:00 - 11:30 there will be a free clinic at Pine Park in Hoffman Estates for the first 20 players to sign-up titled "How To Be A Better Partner”. The easiest way to improve your game is by being in the right place at the right time and making correct decisions with your partner. This is for those of you that know the basic rules of pickleball and have played before. The clinic will consist of instruction and guided play. To sign up, select this link to "How To Be A Better Partner”. Select option 235301B.
There will be no 50+ organized play this coming Monday, May 27, Memorial Day.
If you haven’t joined the 50+ TeamReach yet, please do. The app is used to send and share information instantly. For example: court or park closures, lost equipment, etc. If you don’t have the app, download it, set up your account and enter the code 50HEPB in the text box at the top of the page where it says “Group Code".
In order to play with the 50+ at Fabbrini, you should be registered for the program by contacting the park district at 847-885-7500 and asking to sign up or go to heparks.org and sign up.
The annual 6 County Senior Games are coming soon and the pickleball part of it will again be at Fabbrini Park. Women's play will be July 9, men’s July 11 and mixed July 13. The courts will be closed for open play on those dates. You can get to the sign-up site by selecting IPRA 6 County Senior Games,
Your age for sign-up is your age this calendar year, not your birthday.
It’s that time of year when we have a lot of new-to-us players and no one knows enough about them if they have an emergency. Please have something on your person that identifies you and someone to contact if you have a problem. Some examples of things you could have are:
1. Road ID items
2. MyPaddle bands with your ICE contact info.
3. Ask Linda or me for a copy of an emergency form and aplastic holder to attach to your bag.
Posted 4/13/2024
The official start of 50+ pickleball ( Wednesday, May 1) is rapidly approaching. The 50+ reserved courts will be every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from May through October except for holidays or if the park district reserves the courts or park for a special occasion. If the weather cooperates, we may start sooner.
What to expect at 50+ Pickleball:
1. Friendly competitive social pickleball.
2. A paddle-up system to make for social play without the anxiety of getting in a game and to mix up the foursomes.
3. Two Challenge Courts where you are able to challenge other plays to a highly competitive game played more like tournament play than social play.
4. Two beginner courts for those new to the game and who may feel intimidated getting on the courts with more experienced players. Beginners are always encouraged to move off the beginner courts ASAP and join the main group play.
In order to play with the 50+ group, you need to sign up for 50+ pickleball with the park district.
You are able to sign up 3 different ways and all are free:
1. The Hoffman Estates Park District web site: 235301 - 50+ Outdoor Pickleball at Fabbrini
2. Call the park district at 847-885-7500 and be sure to emphasize 50+ pickleball.
3. Go to the Triphahn Center in person 1685 W. Higgins Rd
As the old timers know, we pay for our own supplies by collecting $10.00 a year from those that wish to contribute. Fortunately, from those of you using the various discount codes listed on our website, Hoffmanestatespickleball.com we have enough money to hopefully get through another year. The bad news is most of the companies are stopping their contributions to clubs, so in the future we may need to collect again.
For faster communication, please sign up for the 50+ pickleball TeamReach by downloading the app and using the code 50HEPB.
There will be times where events occur such the as the courts being closed unexpectedly or items being left at the courts and it is necessary to pass on information to a large group.
Save the date: The 6 County pickleball tournament is scheduled for July 9 (women’s), July 11(men’s) and July 13 (mixed). More information to follow.
Bill and Linda G.
Posted 10/13/2022
Picklers,
I”m sure this finds all of you as anxious for the outdoor season to start as we are. Here is what we know so far for 2023.
50+ Play: We once again have the courts reserved for those 50 years old and older from 9:00 a.m. - noon on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday starting May 8. This date is very tentative as for the last 11 years the weather seldom gets consistently nice until June. In order to play at this time you must register with the Hoffman Park District either in person at one of the rec centers or online at Pickleball 235301.
By signing up you are agreeing to play by the 50+ guidelines posted.
In the past we collected $10.00 from each player for balls and other equipment needed such as blower, brooms, etc. But this year due to using more durable balls and players use of our discount codes, we hope to have enough money to cover all costs. If needed, we may ask for a donation at a later time.
Our club discounts are the following:
Gamma Sports has given a 25% discount on most items to our Prairie State Pickleball Club. Enter the code ba_graba25 when checking out at Gammasports.com.
Core Pickleballs 15% discount. Enter the code HEPicklebL15 at check out.
Pickleball Central, use the code CRHoffman to get a 5% discount on your order. When you do this, our club will also receive a 5% credit on our next club order.
Court Refurbishing and New Courts:
The following is an email from Dustin Hugen, the Director of Parks:
The courts at Fabbrini Park are schedule to have the current fence completely removed with a new fence installed with new 6 foot windscreens on the fence, with the windscreen being started at 18 inches from the ground. We will be removing the court numbers and installing them back once the new fence is installed. We are also going to be having the court surface redone this year, our goal is to do the fence and then complete the surface but we need mother nature to cooperate as the surface contractor needs consistent 70 degree days to complete. Our plan is to have everything complete by July at the latest.
Pine Park (near Thomas Jefferson grade school on Winston Drive) will have five new dedicated pickleball courts with lights. The project started this week with the construction of a new soccer field. This project is set to be completed with park opening in the fall of 2023.
Let’s have a great pickleball summer and remember the reason we are all out there is to get a little exercise, have fun, and hopefully make a new friend.
Bill and Linda G.
Posted 12/10/2022
Picklers,
First of all, Linda and I would like to wish all our pickleball friends a Merry Christmas and a Happy Healthy New Year.
This is to let anyone looking for another indoor facility this winter know that the Club at Prairie Stone has finally, according to the players, improved the visibility of the ball. Progress moves slowly as we have been asking for new darker curtains for right at 10 years and they have finally been installed. With the use of white balls against the dark background and improved side lighting it is much better. Ted Gamrat has been doing most of the organizing and contacting of players.
Right now there is open 50+ play every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from approximately 8:30 - 11:30 with most players arriving around 9:00. Play is still $3.00 for residents and nonresidents. If anyone wants to do a ladder league or river game on the other days of the week or in the afternoons, I’m sure the management would accommodate you. There are also private court rentals during the non-50+ times.
Ken Kirkendall is doing individual and group lessons as well as Pickleball 101, 102 and 103. Contact The Club at 847-285-5400 for details.
For those of you that remember when we had Deb Harrison here doing clinics, this is to let you know how she is doing now. Her partner in the games, Ruth Weil, whom we have been fortunate to become good friends with and play pickleball with, is even shorter than Deb but one heck of a great player in her own right.
DEC 8
Florida Senior Games, presented by Humana, Athletes of the Year Continue Their Pickleball Success
WESLEY CHAPEL - It was a day of Florida Senior Games, presented by Humana, Pickleball royalty at the Men’s and Women’s Singles competition Thursday, as four Florida Senior Games Athletes of the Year were in competition at the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis and Wellness Center.
The most decorated Pickleball athlete in the history of the Florida Senior Games, Deb Harrison, of The Villages, won her 10th Women’s Singles Gold Medal, in the 75-79 age group. Harrison’s first singles gold medal came in 2005 in the 55-59 age group.
Harrison (at right), the 2018 Florida Senior Games Female Athlete of the Year, has won 14 Women’s Doubles Gold Medals and 14 Mixed Doubles Gold Medals for a total of 38 gold medals since 2004. She will team with Ruth Weil, of The Villages, in Women’s Doubles on Friday in an attempt to bring her total 39 since 2004.
She also competed in Table Tennis on Tuesday winning two silver medals and a gold medal.
Picklers,
With the weather we are now having and the long range forecast not being favorable, all outdoor organized 50+ play has been cancelled for the rest of this season. I know most of you will be doing your indoor play at the dome in Hanover Park, but if you are in need of another facility, we still have the courts at The Club at Prairie Stone available. I was out there recently and they have replaced one of the white curtains with a blue one which has improved the visibility. The following is from their website which includes 31/2 hours of play for $3.00 5 days a week and private court rentals in the afternoons and evenings:OPEN PLAY (6 COURTS)Anyone 50+ years of age and of all skill levels are welcome!
8:30am - Noon | Monday - Friday | October - May
Play Passes - 3 Visits $9/12 10 Visits $30/40
Play is held outdoors at Fabbrini Park June-September.
PICKLEBALL RENTALSCourts are available weekdays 1-4pm
1 hour - $15 per court 2 hours - $20 per court
As well as weeknights and weekends for the
1 hour prime time rate - $35 per court
Hope to see you on the courts!
Bill G.
Posted 9/9/2022
Picklers,
Exciting news for Hoffman Picklers, especially for those of us north of the tollway.
The following email was sent to me just this afternoon asking all of us for our help: "Bill and Linda, hope all is well. Wanted to first off let you know that we are planning to replace the entire fence around the pickleball courts at Fabbrini Park as well as resurface the courts next year. We are also looking to convert the in-line hockey rink on the North Side of Hoffman Estates to five dedicated pickleball courts. Was wondering if you could help me in getting signatures of pickleball players that would be in support of dedicated courts (that already have lights) on the north side. This project will be a state- funded project so community support is huge.” This is the park adjacent to Thomas Jefferson grade school.
Here is a link to support the project. https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/N11M8gE/PineParkRenovationPlan
For those of you that would like to test your knowledge of pickleball rules or learn more of the rules, here is a test put out by USA Pickleball designed for players to test their knowledge: select the link below.
Pickleball Test
Posted 11/15/2020
The Club at Prairie Stone and the Triphahn Center are closed for pickleball until further notice.
Fabbrini is still open for outdoor play.
Stay-at-Home Advisory for Region 10 Begins November 16
In an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19 within Region 10, The Cook County Department of Public Health issued a Stay-at-Home Advisory for Suburban Cook County.
The advisory states that residents should refrain from non-essential activities and stay home for at least the next 30 days. The Hoffman Estates Park District Board of Commissioners and staff have decided to follow the advisory set by the Cook County Department of Public Health. Therefore, all non-essential programs and rentals will be cancelled from Monday, November 16 through Wednesday, December 16.
Only the following programs and facilities will be operating during this Stay-at-Home Advisory:
The Club at Prairie Stone Fitness Center
Triphahn Center: Fitness Center and registration desk during operating hours.
Willow Recreation Center: The fitness center is open with a 3-person limit. Reservations are required by calling 847-285-5440.
Bridges of Poplar Creek Country Club: open for round play with shared carts, golf outings, and driving range usage.
Early Learning & Care (full-day preschool & child care)
HEParks Preschool (part-day preschool)
STAR Study Hall
All other currently running HEParks programs will be cancelled for the rest of the late fall session. Credits for all cancelled classes will be processed to your household account.
Please follow HEParks on social media and through our e-blasts for virtual programs and events you and your family can do while we all stay at home and work to decrease the cases of COVID-19 in our community.
Stay safe and healthy.
Bill G.
Posted 10/6/2020
Picklers,
Good news and bad news
The Good news: The lights will be fixed tomorrow, Wednesday, Oct. 7!!!
The Bad news: The courts will be closed tomorrow, Wednesday, Oct. 7 from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. while the lights are fixed.
A reminder to save the date for the drive-by celebration of George Cridland’s 94th birthday. Here is a repeat of the instructions: Elvira would like to have a party, but due to our present conditions this is impossible. Here is what she would like to do instead: She would like as many of us as possible to do a drive by celebration on Saturday, Oct. 17th at 3:00 p.m. She would like the cars to line up starting around 2:45 in the Ela Library parking lot. The library’s address is 275 Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich, IL 60047, United States. Elvira and George's address is 120 D Mohawk Trail Rd, Lake Zurich, 60047.
The Cridland’s house will be on the passenger side of your car when you are driving passed.
Here is a humorous evaluation of your or your fellow players pickleball skills. You will be able to see a certain amount of truth to each skill level and I’m sure be able to identify with or think of individuals that fit each skill level. Enjoy!
Keep your paddles up and stay safe!
Bill G.
Posted9/25/2020
Two items have come up since the last email.
1. For those of you that know Elvira Cridland, her husband, George, will be having his 94th birthday this October. Elvira would like to have a party, but due to our present conditions this is impossible. Here is what she would like to do instead: She would like as many of us as possible to do a drive by celebration on Saturday, Oct. 17th at 3:00 p.m. She would like the cars to line up starting around 2:45 in the Ela Library parking lot. The library’s address is 275 Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich, IL 60047, United States. Elvira and George's address is 120 D Mohawk Trail Rd, Lake Zurich, 60047. ` Please pass this information on to anyone that might be interested.
2. There is one change to the indoor play schedule at The Club at Prairie Stone. After discussing it with Wayne, there will be no ladder league until at least after the Christmas/New Years break. At that time we will reevaluate the health situation and let everyone know if there will be a league session starting at that time.
For those of you that missed the winter schedule and pricing, the email is posted on our website, Hoffmanestatespickleball.com under club emails and communication.
Keep your paddle up and, hopefully, we will all be on the courts together soon.
Posted 9/16/2020
Picklers,
Now that there is a feeling of fall in the air, here is an update as to where the pickleball program is as of right now.
Outdoor play is still at your own risk with no real organized play. Thanks to everyone that is respecting the wishes of the park district by keeping their chairs off the courts while they cure this summer. The same to everyone respecting the Play to 11 and exiting the courts for the next 4 up when the courts are crowded. Hopefully, we are back to normal next year and we can all get back together.
According to Dustin Hugen, the director of parks, the light pole needed to turn on the lights for evening play has been on order for over 12 weeks. The lights will go on when the pole is up.
Dustin is also aware of new cracks developing and the slipperiness of the white lines causing the ball to skid. He has previously agreed to work on gates when the season is over.
In addition to the 10 courts we have at Fabbrini, there are 8 other pickleball courts in Hoffman Estates. There are two painted on tennis courts at each of the following parks:
Charlemagne Park – two courts – 3799 Bourdeaux Dr
South Ridge Park – two courts – 1450 Freeman Road
Cannon Crossings Park – two courts – 1675 Nicholson Dr
Olmstead Park – two courts - 4500 Olmstead Dr.
At this time, the 50+ indoor program at The Club at Prairie Stone, is scheduled to be the same as in past years with some COVID related restrictions. For the play schedule, go to Hoffmanestatespickleball.com.
Here are the additional restrictions as well as court rental information from Beth Zimmer, Operations Manager at The Club at Prairie Stone for those of you not wanting to play in large groups.
We currently do not have any regular daytime rentals therefore you can start your season 9a-12p on 6 courts whenever you are ready. Please notify players of the following new guidelines.
1. Each player will need to sign in at the front desk prior to entering the gym.
2. All purchases must be made prior to entering the gymnasium. This means players will have to be patient as we properly check everyone in.
3. Masks must be worn when entering the facility, walking the common areas, the washrooms, and when on the sidelines.
4. When on the sidelines players must sit in designated spacing
(6 feet apart) on the bleachers.
Rental prices as follows:
Monday – Friday before 4pm: $15 for 1 hour and $20 for 2 hours. Once pickleball starts rentals will have to be between 12p-4p. Evenings and weekends will have to remain at $35/hour.
In addition to indoor pickleball at The Club, there is also pickleball at the Triphahn Center. Here is the schedule and protocol for Triphahn:
Preregistration is required to play Pickleball according to phase 4 guidelines. Preregister online or when you arrive.
Tuesdays at the Triphahn Center Gym, 4:00-5:30pm
50+ Only (FREE to 50+ club members)
Wednesdays: 6:00-9:00pm Open Play
Register Here/$5 Per Day
Please bring your own paddles and water bottle. Balls will be provided.
Posted June 22, 2020
Picklers,
What a great problem. 10 courts and still people waiting. This email is primarily for those players that still come during the Monday, Wednesday, and Friday play time that was and will be again reserved for 50+ club play. We now have a new shed for our equipment that is, hopefully, more damage- proof than the old one. Wayne (The Candy Man), Jeff Frank, and I have keys to it and the contents. Since Linda and I are still not playing in large groups, Wayne and Jeff will be taking care of business.
The old way of hanging the paddle racks inside by the courts can no longer happen for many reasons, but the main one is that the fence we used to hang them on is gone. Therefor they can no longer be hung permanently. Over the weekend I added hooks to them so they will now be hung outside the courts near the shed just on play days. They will also not be stacked on top of each other, but spread out to keep better social distancing. Since they need to be put away at the end of play, If you are leaving the courts and the racks are still up but not being used, PLEASE take them down and put them in the shed. They aren’t super expensive, but they are a lot of work to make.
The two different sets are labeled Winners (Gold medal, 1st place, luckiest team) and Losers (Silver medal, 2nd place, Nice try, Good effort, sun was in our eyes). When you come off the court, place your paddle in the appropriate rack and wait your turn to go back out on the courts. The two different racks will take turns going out 4 players at a time. This is a fair way to use the courts, helps with socializing, and gives everyone a chance to get good games.
Please put your name on your paddle on both sides near the handle so others can clearly read it. This way they can call out your name when it is time to go on the courts without having to handle your paddle.
Medical emergency: In the past we have had medical emergencies where we have had to contact 911 to help injured players. Having emergency contact information available in case you are unable to communicate that information is critical.
In the past, we have handed out medical id forms and plastic sleeves to attach to your bags in case of an emergency. Since we are not there to do this, here is something that is probably a better idea.
Road iD’s is a very simple way to always have your medical information available. Please look into having something with you.
For those of you looking to up your game by taking lessons, here are 2 of our players that are now giving lessons:
Ken Kirkendall is giving lessons indoors at Prairie Stone. His contact information is
George Kas is giving lessons outdoors.
For contact information, contact me and I will share.
If you know of anyone wanting to be on our email list, please pass on our contact information.
See you on the courts someday.
Bill G.
Posted June 1, 2020
Picklers,
We are getting so much closer to opening. These pictures were taken yesterday by Jon S.
The one remaining tennis court is in blue. (Need to work on getting it changed over to pickleball courts) The new and older resurfaced courts are in green.
During phase 3 of the state reopening, these are rules the park district is requesting we follow when the courts reopen:
1. No 50+ club activities or shared equipment. The shed is being repaired but no equipment will be stored in it.
2. Singles only. Check out Youtube for rules and variations of skinny singles for those of us on the senior side of life.
3. Bring your own pickleballs.
4. No chairs on the courts. This will be true all summer until the park district gives permission as the new surface cures.
5. Since the courts cover so much space we do not have to follow the group size of 10 as required by the state. With 10 courts we are allowed 2 per court.
Hopefully, as the conditions improve we will be back to playing doubles soon. I would like to see couples from the same household or families be able to play doubles ASAP. Some of this is still a work in progress.
Here is a discount for club members wanting to upgrade their equipment before the season gets going:
Gamma Sports has a 40% sale starting today. There was no information as to the length of the sale. The code to get the discount is SUMMERFUN20. Free shipping if your order is over $59.00. Normally I would compile an order and send it in which would guarantee free shipping. However there is nothing normal right now, so if your order is under the $59.00, find someone to go in on an order. Their website is Gammasports.com and the sale is on everything, including balls, clothes, nets and paddles.
Happy pickling and see you on the courts sometime soon.
Bill G.
Posted May 30, 2020
Picklers,
The pickleball courts at Fabbrini Park on now on a firm opening by June 5. Here is what I received from the park district administration:
" Not sure if you heard but Fabbrini was severely flooded and half the parking lot is still under water. They were unable to work for a little bit so the schedule is just pushed slightly.
Right now for sure June 5th. Now I say that just in case anything else happens. They are confident they can get it done through this weekend and by the end of the day on Monday the first. But I always just like to give a for sure date. I just say the 5th in case anything else happens.
There are no changes to any of the rules and regulations that were put out on the 19th. Those were put in place with the phase 3 guidelines already.”
For a complete list of the regulations refer to the Club Emails and Communications on our website or Facebook page.
As you can see by the photos below, the courts are not quite finished and the parking lot is occupied with something other than cars.
Safe pickling! Remember, we are not just with the players on the courts, but with everyone they have been with.
Bill G.
Posted May 15, 2020
Picklers,
Everyone is anxious to get back on the courts as soon as possible, but, and there is always a but, unfortunately it won’t be for a while in Hoffman. According to the park district administration, the gates will remain locked. When I hear of any updates, I will pass them on. If anyone goes past the courts and you notice progress on the new courts, please pass on any pictures. We are still hibernating in Florida until things settle down.
Here is the response I received to my question of reopening the courts:
"Outdoor courts are part of phase 4 of the Governor’s plan at this point. The earliest we can get to phase 3 would be May 29th. I know on our end we will follow those orders precisely. I am not sure on a date of when we could get to phase 4 but my personal belief would be more closer to the 4th of July. With that being said I don’t even know if our 50+ activities will even begin organization yet based on that being a high risk population. I believe we are on the same page and both agree it will be awhile until things are back to normal.
Once the courts open in phase 4 where anyone could stop out and play, people will be expected to follow the guidelines for social distancing set by the state. We will not be able to monitor or enforce this all hours of the day, but we hope people will be respectful of the rules until we can resume normal operations under safe conditions. But I will not be having anything 50+ until we are cleared to do so, even if the courts are open just for general use in phase 4."
If and when the courts reopen, there will be no organized 50+ play. Everyone will need to bring their own equipment and play at their own risk until large group gatherings are allowed.
When the courts do open, here are the guidelines for open play as provided by the USAPA:
In response to COVID-19, facility managers and players should adjust normal court schedules to help control the number of players playing with large groups. Due to the possibility of players returning from high-risk areas, or who have been infected and are contagious, extra precautions are necessary to prevent the asymptomatic transmission of the virus. Group size counts for play sessions must include all players and staff, and players must strictly adhere to social gathering and distancing policies, according to local, state, and federal authorities. Special considerations should be made for transitional periods between playing groups when overlap and crowding is more likely to occur. Dependent upon the specific timing and withdrawal of local COVID-19 restrictions, players should be prepared to adhere to a minimum of a six-foot social distancing measure, as defined by the CDC.
IF YOU DECIDE TO PLAY:
The following information does not apply for
everyone as stay-at-home restrictions and
mandates vary state to state. However, if you live
in an area where local stay-at-home or shelter-in-
place mandates have been relaxed or modified,
and courts are available for play, we encourage
you to take every precaution and follow these
safety recommendations as well as those
implemented and required by your facility or club
and local, state and federal government authority.
Make sure that your state, regional and local authorities satisfy federal criteria.
If your courts are open and available for play, adhere to safety precautions established by the CDC and the facility.
Consider playing with only family members or others who reside in your household.
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COVID-19 RETURN TO PLAY USAPA.ORG/USA-Pickleball-statement-on-the-coronavirus/
2
MINIMIZING RISK: MANAGING SCHEDULES AND PLAY SESSIONS
IF YOU DECIDE TO PLAY (cont’d): MANAGING PLAY SESSIONS:
Wash your hands with soap and water and bring personal use hand sanitizer to the courts.
Clean and wipe down your paddles and water bottles. Do not share paddles or any other equipment or clothing.
Bring a full personal use water bottle(s) and avoid touching or using public water fountains.
Bring tissues or a handkerchief for contained sneezing and coughing or consider wearing a mask.
Consider wearing gloves to the courts and avoid touching court gates, fences, benches, etc.
Also consider wearing gloves during play to avoid picking up pickleballs with your hands.
Use new pickleballs and a new grip or fresh tape on your paddle handle if possible.
Coordinate with your play group so that each person serves with a different color ball. If multiple colors are not an option, use a sharpie and prominently mark personal pickleballs with your initials.
Adhere to social gathering and distancing policies according to local, state, and federal authorities. Limit your distance to six feet or more to other players.
Avoid contact with others, such as hand shaking and high fives.
Group size counts should include players and staff, and account for transition periods between sessions.
Limit or stagger playing groups throughout open play schedule and consider alternate days for various groups.
Use outdoor courts/spaces whenever possible.
Consider playing singles only and avoid doubles play as doubles is not conducive for six-foot
social distancing and leads to incidental contact
with playing partners.
If you do elect to play doubles, consider playing
with only those who reside within your
household.
Adhere to CDC guidelines by not touching your
face (after handling a ball or paddle).
Consider using hand sanitizer between games.
Wash your hands after each match.
Use your paddle and foot to pick up pickleballs
and transfer them to your opponent. If utilizing a raised net, hit the ball under the net to your opponent.
Avoid changing ends of the court.
Maintain proper social distancing from other
players in between games and during time outs.
DO NOT PLAY IF YOU:
Are exhibiting any symptoms of the coronavirus: mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, coughing, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms identified by the CDC.
Have been in contact with someone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days.
Are a vulnerable individual with serious underlying health conditions, including high blood pressure, chronic lung disease, diabetes, obesity, asthma, or whose immune system is compromised such as by chemotherapy for cancer and other conditions requiring such therapy.
WHEN PLAY HAS ENDED:
Leave the court as soon as reasonably possible.
Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer
immediately after your match is over.
Avoid post play socializing.
Avoid locker rooms and changing area –
proceed home.
Thoroughly wash your paddles, grips,
pickleballs, towels, clothes, bags, water bottles, and other items you have used or touched.
Bill G.
Posted March 26, 2020
Picklers,
I don’t know about you, but we are following the Corona Virus guidelines and pretty much self-isolating. The best advice we have tried to follow is to act like we have the virus and do our best not to pass it on to family and friends. Let’s not kill grandma!
So what do we do to stay sane? Of course the usual exercise, TV, read, play games and eat too much. But how do we attempt to get our pickleball fix and, hopefully, keep somewhat ready for when we are able to get safely back on the courts?
Here are some YouTube videos that are a little different than just watching someone else play:
Virtual Pickleball Summit Days 1 and 2 are recorded so far with several players discussing play, safety and health. Several “experts” are giving advice and answering call in questions. I found it very interesting. Definitely an amateur production. I think they will be doing more of these.
In-home Pickleball Exercises by Simone Jardine. Simone and her husband go through a series of drills and exercises that you can do by yourself or if you are lucky enough to be self-isolating with someone else that plays, some drills you can do together. Part One and Part Two
There are hundreds of how-to and tournament videos to watch in addition to these newer ones made for these house-bound times.
The next problem is where and how you can do these drills.
Here, priced from low to high is what I could find :
2 balls designed to be used in your house or garage:
Quick Kids Practice Ball $3.99/ball is the one we have. If it is clean, you can use it on your inside walls and not leave marks.
The Gamma Foam Quiet Ball: It is denser and probably better used in your garage; sells for $8.99 for 6 balls.
Rebounders: These come in many sizes and prices but can easily be set up in a garage or driveway. The price starts at approximately $220. Here is a YouTube video of one in use: Pickleball Rebounder.
Ball Machines: Pricey but fun and easily used by one or two people. Price range from $900 - $1400.If you decide to get any of these balls, be sure to use our club discount PSPC for a 15% discount at Gammasports.com. Unfortunately, when I last checked, they were out of stock at Gamma. We also have a 5% discount with Pickleball Central using the code CRHoffman.If you have any ideas on more toys, sites or drills on how to keep your edge in pickleball in this time of social distancing you think should be passed on, please email them to me. We love our pickleball friends and hope you all practice safe pickleball. Stay healthy and see you on the courts when this all passes. You may receive this email if you are on more than one of my lists. Just delete it.Bill and Linda
Posted Dec. 17, 2019
Picklers,
It is Merry Happy season and many of us will be having family and friends around for the holidays. All play at The Club at Prairie Stone from Monday, December 23 - Friday, January 3, 2020 will be open to all ages. If you are bringing guests, you will need to use one of your passes for them. Just check in at the desk and let them know. There will be NO play Tuesday, Dec. 24 or Tuesday, Dec. 31.
The Fall 2019 Ladder League is over. To see final results, go too Hoffmanestatespickleball.com and select the picture of a ladder.
The Winter Ladder League will begin Monday, January 6. As of right now there are 18 of the possible 24 slots signed up, along with a number of subs. If you want one of the remaining places or to sub, contact Wayne (The Candy Man) Burdick at (847) 274-5918 or [email protected] ASAP.
Clean up time: I know many of you have moved or for some reason no longer are able to play with our club. Let us know If you want an end to these annoying emails. On the other hand, if you have friends that are not on our email list but are always annoying you to forward information, have them contact us to include them.
All of the paddles that were ordered from Gamma have arrived. I sent an email to everyone that ordered a paddle with the amount you owe, but sometimes they end up in your spam folders. Please pick them up or have someone pick them up this week or you may not get them until we return from the land of sun and fun.
We still have two Compass paddles that have wandered off. Please check your bags for stray paddles and those of you with new paddles, please get your names on them. Return address labels work great.
Thanks to all of you, 2019 has been another great year for Hoffman pickleball. Our number of players and pickleball friends continues to grow along with the number of courts on which to play. We are all blessed to be able to participate in this game with such great people.
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy New Year.
Bill and Linda
Christmas Pickleball Poem
Twas the night before Christmas
And out on the courts
Were all types of people
In tennies and shorts
All of them beaming and shouting with joy
Happy as children with a new Christmas toy
Out of their bags, colorful paddles appeared
To the kitchen they scurried, lined up, and cheered
Let’s dink it and drop it, let’s volley and kill
The balls started bouncing as if without will
The sound from the paddles and balls as they rose
Moved all of the players to the tips of their toes
Cross court and forward, balls started to fly
When appeared an old player with a wink in his eye
Dressed in all red from his head to his toe
A smile on his face and a warm, cheery glow
0-0-2 he shouted as he served me the ball
He moved like the wind, barely saw him at all
Then all of a sudden, it was 11 to 0
As we lightly touched paddles, he said he must go
Before I asked where, he disappeared in a haze,
But I heard his farewell while still in my daze
“Keep playing and laughing and having your fun!
Merry Pickleball to all, my work here is done!”
[A Poem By Greg LaVelle] Submitted by Joyce Troyer
Posted Dec. 3, 2019
Picklers,
As many of you remember, last year we had a 50% discount on Gamma Paddles. This year their Christmas special is not quite as good, but it is 40% off any paddle. If you want a new Gamma paddle for Christmas or as a gift, get me your order by next Friday, December 6. I need the name and color. Your cost will be 40% of whatever the cost is on Gammasports.com. Pay me when you get your paddle. I will be sending the order in Saturday, December 7 in order to have it back before the holidays. I hope to be playing Tues., Thurs., and Fri. at least for a short time, and will have the paddles there for you to try.
Wednesday, Dec. 4, is the last day to let Jill E. know if you are going to the party on Dec. 10. Jill’s email is: [email protected]
Prairie Stone will be open on all play days through the end of the year as Christmas and New Years are on Wednesdays. From December 23 - January 3 we will be family friendly. If you have family or friends in for the holidays and they are not 50, they are welcome to come and play. You will need to use your passes for them.
Speaking of passes, please stop at the desk to sign in and get your passes before playing each time.
Bill G.
Posted November 17, 2019
Holiday Party
Come and join your pickleball friends for a holiday party.
The date will be Tuesday, December 10, 12:30 at the Saddle Room. To get to the Saddle Room go past The Club at Prairie Stone to the first stop sign, turn left and the Saddle Room will be on your left. The address is 2559 Pratum Ave, Hoffman Estates, IL 60192.
A happy hour/mixer will be in the Wine Bar from 12:30-1:30. The pre-ordered lunches will be served in the dining room around 1:30. You need to RSVP to Jill at [email protected] or 312-501-4785 by Wednesday, December 4 with your food choice. The restaurant is providing separate checks. You will be given a number by Jill when you arrive. Everything you order will then go on that number ticket. Be sure to ask Wayne his ticket number.
Below is a pdf of the menu. By selecting it, it should open with the full menu. If you want to modify your meal from the choices on the menu, please be very specific in your email to Jill. Everyone will receive their own check after the meal.
Bill G.
Posted Nov. 3, 2019
Picklers,
Our social chairwoman, Jill Echternach, has been busy getting a venue and date for our annual holiday party. We will once again be at the Saddle Room in Hoffman Estates. The date is Dec. 10, and more details will follow once the time, menu choices, and prices are available. Try to attend if for no other reason than to see what your friends look like all cleaned up.
For those of you that can’t get enough pickleball, here is a link you can use to watch live streaming of the USA Nationals Pickleball Tournament. The only somewhat local player involved that I am aware of is Anni Pennstone, now of The Villages, Florida.
Good luck to all the players involved with the ladder league starting tomorrow, November 4. Here is a link for the Fall 2019 league. The ladder URL will also be linked to the ladder information on our website, Hoffmanestatespickleball.com. The league participants can use the link to check out their standings and their next opponents. The rest of us can use it to see how are friends are performing.
Bill G.
Posted Oct. 8, 2019
Picklers,
Wayne has spoken: The start of our indoor season will be this coming Friday, October 11, at 9:00 a.m.
The outdoor nets are still up, so if you want to play, organize your own groups and bring balls as the outdoor 50+ will be officially over on Friday.
For prices and the entire list of times for indoor pickleball at The Club of Prairie Stone, go to our website: Hoffmanestatespickleball.com
Don’t forget to let Wayne know ASAP if you are interested in the ladder league either as a regular or a sub.
I wish I could send you some of this Florida heat as it is still in the 90's every day.
Here is just 1 of a possible 303 tips on how to improve your game. The other 302 can be found on a link on our website under the heading Tipbits.
TIPBITS #303 Q N A (TRACKING #2)
QUESTION: I need some tips on how to focus on the ball. I am getting up there in age and having trouble focusing on the ball leaving my opponent's paddle and following it to my paddle.
ANSWER: Last time, the Question above was answered by recognizing that you must attempt to bring your greatest Level of Focus to each and every game and each and every point. Further, it was suggested, that in order to do that, you need to be fully rested, able to devote your full Focus only to the task at hand, that you'll need to be alert, be positive, be intense and be able to maintain that intensity, that level of Focus, for the entire duration of your play. Finally, several ideas were presented as to just what to do and what not to do. Those thoughts will help you get more Focused, in general. But what about some specifics?
Let's break this down a little. The Return and the Third Shot off the Return are your first opportunities to demonstrate your Level of Focus. Every thing else fits into the second category of opportunities or situations. Let's address the first ones first.
The Return: The Return requires watching the ball for a longer DISTANCE than most other shots. So, it requires you to Focus for the longest period of TIME. Your ability to predict, track and watch the ball on its entire path to your paddle starts with these steps:
1) Watch what your opponent is doing immediately prior to their contact on the ball (in this case, the Serve);
2) Note their position on the court when Serving (near the side line, near the center line or in the middle);
3) Focus on the Server's back swing;
4) Watch the toss of the ball, noting the forward motion of the Server's arm and paddle;
5) Watch the ball at contact.
Now, while always maintaining your Focus on the ball, noting its pace, spin, direction and depth...
6) Move immediately to the ball.
7) Position yourself accordingly and still watching the ball.
8) Execute your Return.
To read some steps you might consider prior to any Return, see TIPBITS # 238, the Return Routine. This will help you have a Plan for what OPTIONS you might have to deal with on your Return.
The Third Shot: Preparing to hit the Third Shot replicates many of the points made above for preparing for the Return. It starts with these steps:
1) Note which side your opponent will use to strike the ball (forehand or backhand).
2) Note their back swing.
3) Note their paddle's forward motion.
4) Observe the ball upon contact.
5) Immediately after contact, determine if the ball will be yours to hit or your partner's.
6) Advise your partner if you or your partner will take the ball.
7) If it's your ball, note its pace, spin, direction and depth.
8) Move immediately to the ball.
9) Position yourself accordingly and still watching the ball,
10) Execute your Third Shot.
So, as in the Return above, you should have determined before hand, what your OPTIONS are going to be for your Third Shot. As an example, if the ball is to your backhand, decide ahead of time where you plan to place the ball. In other words, have a plan ahead of time for each OPTION you'll be presented with! This will help you to Focus on the ball and on nothing else.
This covers the first two situations you'll encounter in each and every game. Next time, we'll address all the other remaining situations, obviously lumping them into just a couple of categories.
Let your compassion result in action on behalf of those in need. See some GOOD OPTIONS at TIPBITS.OR
Bill G.
Posted Oct. 1, 2019
Picklers,
To repeat information from a much earlier email:
The Club at Prairie Stone is usually available for pickleball play on most of our regular scheduled outdoor days if we have inclement weather. Before going there you must call and check for availability. The number is 847-902-5400.
For tomorrow, Wednesday, Oct 2, Jon S. has already called and confirmed it is open for play. The cost is $3.00/play for residents or club members and $4.00/play for nonresidents. You will buy packages of 3 or 10 and they never expire.
The Club at Prairie Stone also has court rentals for private groups. You will have to check at the desk for cost.
Wayne B. will make the final decision to move indoors full time. I will get an email out to everyone when he thinks it is time. Remember to let him know about your interest to play or sub in the ladder league ASAP. [email protected]
The park district also offers individual and group lessons as well as Pickleball 101, 102, and 103 all taught by Ken Kirkendall. You will have to check with the desk for cost.
I have heard nothing but great things about Ken’s lessons and classes. If you want to improve, sign up and learn correct techniques and strategies before bad habits are ingrained.
Here is just one comment from a recent student: I enjoyed my lessons with Ken. I felt he was very helpful, open and knowledgeable. He gave constructive critiques while watching me play and he was interested in any areas that I wanted specific help. I liked his relaxed learning environment and would recommend him as an instructor.
There was another one talking about how he looked like Tom Seleck, etc. but I figured Ken or his wife wrote that so it was deleted.
Bill G.
Posted Sept. 27
Picklers,
Sadly, our outdoor season is coming to an end. In the past, the nets at Fabbrini have been up until the end of Oct. or early November. We will start our indoor play no later than November 3 with that being the first day of the fall ladder league. If the outdoor nets are still up at that time, you will have to decide where you want to play on any given day until Mother Nature takes your choice away.
Wayne (The Candy Man) Burdick will be running the ladder league once again. The fall league will run every Monday from November 4 until Monday, December 23. If you think you will miss more than 3 sessions, please sign up as sub. To sign up for the league, or as a sub (lots of subs needed) contact Wayne at [email protected]. There is only room for 24 players, so sign up ASAP. Wayne has offered to autograph the paddles of the first 5 to sign up.
For a complete list of our indoor times and prices at The Club at Prairie Stone, go to our website, Hoffmanestatespickleball.com.
For those of you not familiar with a ladder league, go to the USAPA website for a complete description of all the options.
Keep your paddle up and see you around Thanksgiving.
Bill G.
Posted September 12, 2019
Picklers,
As most of you know, we have been working on getting more pickleball courts in Hoffman. Our 50+ crowds have been averaging over 40 and up to 70 players per session. Other groups playing have also been filling all 6 courts and having overflow waiting. Using the 2 temporary courts relieves some of the pressure, but when the wind is over 10 mph they become unplayable for the most part and the only group with access to the temporary nets is the our group as we paid for them.
Thanks to the efforts of Victor Katis (Mary’s husband) who helped get us in front of the park board, Robert Kaplan, the board president who is becoming one of our players, and Craig Talsma, the Executive Director of the Hoffman Park District, we are definitely on the park district's radar. I had a very positive and encouraging phone call with Mr. Talsma this p.m. He indicated the park district is well aware of our needs and they are researching possible solutions. Of course, it comes down to money and how best to spend it. Let’s all keep our fingers crossed and I will get back when we have more news.
Below is an ad from Pickleball Central. If you are thinking of upgrading your equipment, this is a very good sale and you are also able to use our club code, CRHoffman to get another 5% off on top of this. The indoor season is rapidly approaching and it’s time to get some indoor courts shoes. When you order from Pickleball Central, we also get 5% of your order towards the purchase of next year's balls.
Bill G.
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From Our Blog: Hitting A Consistent & Powerful Serve
Your serve is the one shot you have 100% control over during a pickleball game. You can visualize ball placement, take a breath and send the ball exactly where you want it. But it can be surprisingly difficult to develop a reliable serve even when you have all these factors in your favor. Following are a few tips that help players improve the consistency of their serve and increase power behind it. Read more...
READ MORE
Posted August 14
Picklers,
Bev and Jon Sesterhenn have presented us with what I think is a great way to enjoy each others company and do a good deed at the same time. Here is an email Bev composed and asked me to pass on to our players:
Feed My Starving Children (Get involved : Feed My Starving Children ) is a local non-profit whose mission is to send nutritious food to children who need it. They are located in Schaumburg, and are supported by donations and volunteers. The volunteers meet at their Schaumburg location and put together food packets that are sent to various countries, where local organizations work to distribute them.
Get involved : Feed My Starving ChildrenFMSC, Feed My Starving Children
Sessions are available 6 days a week, mornings, afternoons and evenings, and are 2 hours long.
This is a great opportunity for groups to work together for a good cause. We thought that working one volunteer session together would be a great activity for our Pickleball family. I have tentatively reserved 20 spots (we can have more) for the session on Thursday, August 29, 2:30 to 4:30. If you would like to participate, please email me at [email protected] no later than Monday, August 26.
Thank you!
Bev Sesterhenn
The Challenge Court has proven to be well received and has not only given those players that want very competitive games a place to play, but has also let those players wanting to play more relaxed games a chance to avoid those same players. The question has come up about why we rotate the challenge court and not leave it on just one court. The reason is an attempt to be as fair as possible to those players involved with the Challenge Court and also the players there just for fun. As we know, not all the courts are equal when it comes to playability. The court by the gate has a downhill side and interference from players coming and going. Court 5 has to deal with the sewer. Also, it is true that if we made one of the outside (better courts) the designated Challenge Court those players could always play without interference, but they would always be interfering with the other courts on their way on and off. By rotating the Challenge Court we all have to deal with the same issues at various times and still get the kind of games we want.
Our attempt to meet with the park district administration has proven to be more difficult than we thought. We now have been delayed until after Labor Day as the new personnel are getting acclimated and we are low on the priority list.
Bill G.
Posted June 24
Picklers,
During the past week, we have had several players from our club enjoy successes:
Elvira Cridland and her partner, Susan Coles, won Gold at the National Senior Games in Albuquerque, NM.
Steve Delong and Seiko Kawata took bronze at the Lockport tournament and Judy Beckwith and her partner, Bala, took silver in the 4.5 division.
Koz's (Carol Koszola) softball team won gold at the National Senior Games in the 75+ bracket and bronze in the 70 - 74 age bracket. Carol Floros was the official score keeper.
Wednesday Picnic In The Park: The forecast for this Wednesday is sunny and warm. A perfect day to visit, eat, and make a new friend under the trees at Fabbrini. BYO Everything.
New Players: As you may have noticed, we have a lot of new players and a few new to the game this summer. Thanks to everyone for making them feel comfortable and showing them the ropes. We are also getting a lot of out of town guests who also have commented on what nice people we have. 👏🏻
Sign In: Some of you are wondering why we are having you sign in when you get to the courts. It has nothing to do with your 50+ club membership as that is not our job to check. We are trying to get as much information as we can showing the number of pickleball players and tennis players on a daily basis. If you play in any groups other then 50+ at Fabbrini throughout the week and would be willing to do something to get me player numbers I would appreciate it. A simple head count would help, but a sign-in sheet with actual names would be even better. Also have tennis players sign-in. If the tennis players choose not to, please write down how many played and for approximately how long. We would like as much information as you can get between now and the 6 County Senior Games which are the week of July 8. Attached is a form you can use for sign-in.
Tournament Registration: Registration for the 6 County Games is over, so in the next few days I will send out the teams in each bracket. I am waiting for the last of the forms that were mailed to arrive. If both partners were not registered by last Friday, your names will not appear on the list. When you get the list, please look it over to make sure the spelling is correct and that you are in the correct age brackets.
Tournament Help: We need help all three days (July 9, 11, 13). We need lines people and photographers, especially. If you are available any or all those days for all or part of the day, please go to SignUp Genius and register. Thank you!!!
Bill G.The official start of 50+ pickleball ( Wednesday, May 1) is rapidly approaching. The 50+ reserved courts will be every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from May through October except for holidays or if the park district reserves the courts or park for a special occasion. If the weather cooperates, we may start sooner.
What to expect at 50+ Pickleball:
1. Friendly competitive social pickleball.
2. A paddle-up system to make for social play without the anxiety of getting in a game and to mix up the foursomes.
3. Two Challenge Courts where you are able to challenge other plays to a highly competitive game played more like tournament play than social play.
4. Two beginner courts for those new to the game and who may feel intimidated getting on the courts with more experienced players. Beginners are always encouraged to move off the beginner courts ASAP and join the main group play.
In order to play with the 50+ group, you need to sign up for 50+ pickleball with the park district.
You are able to sign up 3 different ways and all are free:
1. The Hoffman Estates Park District web site: 235301 - 50+ Outdoor Pickleball at Fabbrini
2. Call the park district at 847-885-7500 and be sure to emphasize 50+ pickleball.
3. Go to the Triphahn Center in person 1685 W. Higgins Rd
As the old timers know, we pay for our own supplies by collecting $10.00 a year from those that wish to contribute. Fortunately, from those of you using the various discount codes listed on our website, Hoffmanestatespickleball.com we have enough money to hopefully get through another year. The bad news is most of the companies are stopping their contributions to clubs, so in the future we may need to collect again.
For faster communication, please sign up for the 50+ pickleball TeamReach by downloading the app and using the code 50HEPB.
There will be times where events occur such the as the courts being closed unexpectedly or items being left at the courts and it is necessary to pass on information to a large group.
Save the date: The 6 County pickleball tournament is scheduled for July 9 (women’s), July 11(men’s) and July 13 (mixed). More information to follow.
Bill and Linda G.
Where has the summer of 2024 gone? Between pickleball, grandkids, 2 weeks in Alaska, and moving to a new (to us) home in Haverford Place, time has flown. Life is good!
Many of you have been asking, “When does 50+ pickleball reserved court time end?" The answer is October 30. The courts will remain open but no organized play and no equipment will be available.
Another question from some of our old-timers is “Are you going to order any clothes for us with the logo on them?” The answer is no with a “but". A company contacted us through our website with a great offer that does not entail us trying to keep track of orders, taking several trips to Lake Zurich, collecting money and dealing with returns.
PerfectImprinting.com | TheApronPlace.com
Divisions of Abbie Road Imprinting, LLC
1018 Cedar St.
De Pere, WI 54115
C: (920) 366-4791
PerfectImprinting has come up with a whole line of clothes and other items with our logo (developed by Sam and Terea Hanasz’s daughter-in-law) on them. As well as handling everything, they also will give back to us 10% of the items' cost to use for purchasing balls and other items needed for 50+ play.
You can browse the items by selecting the following url: https://hoffmanestatespickleball.deco-apparel.com/
Use the code NEWSTORE for 10% off the cost until Sept. 22.
We have a few items players have left behind after play. They are in the shed and will be put out on the bench for you to claim. If not claimed by the end of the season, you will have made a donation to Goodwill.
The gym floor at Prairie Stone has been refinished and will be ready for indoor play by Sept. 6 if all goes according to plan.
posted 5/22/24
All 10 courts full and players paddling up. What are you waiting for? Come and join in the 50+ play at Fabbrini Park.
Saturday, June 1, from 9:00 - 11:30 there will be a free clinic at Pine Park in Hoffman Estates for the first 20 players to sign-up titled "How To Be A Better Partner”. The easiest way to improve your game is by being in the right place at the right time and making correct decisions with your partner. This is for those of you that know the basic rules of pickleball and have played before. The clinic will consist of instruction and guided play. To sign up, select this link to "How To Be A Better Partner”. Select option 235301B.
There will be no 50+ organized play this coming Monday, May 27, Memorial Day.
If you haven’t joined the 50+ TeamReach yet, please do. The app is used to send and share information instantly. For example: court or park closures, lost equipment, etc. If you don’t have the app, download it, set up your account and enter the code 50HEPB in the text box at the top of the page where it says “Group Code".
In order to play with the 50+ at Fabbrini, you should be registered for the program by contacting the park district at 847-885-7500 and asking to sign up or go to heparks.org and sign up.
The annual 6 County Senior Games are coming soon and the pickleball part of it will again be at Fabbrini Park. Women's play will be July 9, men’s July 11 and mixed July 13. The courts will be closed for open play on those dates. You can get to the sign-up site by selecting IPRA 6 County Senior Games,
Your age for sign-up is your age this calendar year, not your birthday.
It’s that time of year when we have a lot of new-to-us players and no one knows enough about them if they have an emergency. Please have something on your person that identifies you and someone to contact if you have a problem. Some examples of things you could have are:
1. Road ID items
2. MyPaddle bands with your ICE contact info.
3. Ask Linda or me for a copy of an emergency form and aplastic holder to attach to your bag.
Posted 4/13/2024
The official start of 50+ pickleball ( Wednesday, May 1) is rapidly approaching. The 50+ reserved courts will be every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from May through October except for holidays or if the park district reserves the courts or park for a special occasion. If the weather cooperates, we may start sooner.
What to expect at 50+ Pickleball:
1. Friendly competitive social pickleball.
2. A paddle-up system to make for social play without the anxiety of getting in a game and to mix up the foursomes.
3. Two Challenge Courts where you are able to challenge other plays to a highly competitive game played more like tournament play than social play.
4. Two beginner courts for those new to the game and who may feel intimidated getting on the courts with more experienced players. Beginners are always encouraged to move off the beginner courts ASAP and join the main group play.
In order to play with the 50+ group, you need to sign up for 50+ pickleball with the park district.
You are able to sign up 3 different ways and all are free:
1. The Hoffman Estates Park District web site: 235301 - 50+ Outdoor Pickleball at Fabbrini
2. Call the park district at 847-885-7500 and be sure to emphasize 50+ pickleball.
3. Go to the Triphahn Center in person 1685 W. Higgins Rd
As the old timers know, we pay for our own supplies by collecting $10.00 a year from those that wish to contribute. Fortunately, from those of you using the various discount codes listed on our website, Hoffmanestatespickleball.com we have enough money to hopefully get through another year. The bad news is most of the companies are stopping their contributions to clubs, so in the future we may need to collect again.
For faster communication, please sign up for the 50+ pickleball TeamReach by downloading the app and using the code 50HEPB.
There will be times where events occur such the as the courts being closed unexpectedly or items being left at the courts and it is necessary to pass on information to a large group.
Save the date: The 6 County pickleball tournament is scheduled for July 9 (women’s), July 11(men’s) and July 13 (mixed). More information to follow.
Bill and Linda G.
Posted 10/13/2022
Picklers,
I”m sure this finds all of you as anxious for the outdoor season to start as we are. Here is what we know so far for 2023.
50+ Play: We once again have the courts reserved for those 50 years old and older from 9:00 a.m. - noon on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday starting May 8. This date is very tentative as for the last 11 years the weather seldom gets consistently nice until June. In order to play at this time you must register with the Hoffman Park District either in person at one of the rec centers or online at Pickleball 235301.
By signing up you are agreeing to play by the 50+ guidelines posted.
In the past we collected $10.00 from each player for balls and other equipment needed such as blower, brooms, etc. But this year due to using more durable balls and players use of our discount codes, we hope to have enough money to cover all costs. If needed, we may ask for a donation at a later time.
Our club discounts are the following:
Gamma Sports has given a 25% discount on most items to our Prairie State Pickleball Club. Enter the code ba_graba25 when checking out at Gammasports.com.
Core Pickleballs 15% discount. Enter the code HEPicklebL15 at check out.
Pickleball Central, use the code CRHoffman to get a 5% discount on your order. When you do this, our club will also receive a 5% credit on our next club order.
Court Refurbishing and New Courts:
The following is an email from Dustin Hugen, the Director of Parks:
The courts at Fabbrini Park are schedule to have the current fence completely removed with a new fence installed with new 6 foot windscreens on the fence, with the windscreen being started at 18 inches from the ground. We will be removing the court numbers and installing them back once the new fence is installed. We are also going to be having the court surface redone this year, our goal is to do the fence and then complete the surface but we need mother nature to cooperate as the surface contractor needs consistent 70 degree days to complete. Our plan is to have everything complete by July at the latest.
Pine Park (near Thomas Jefferson grade school on Winston Drive) will have five new dedicated pickleball courts with lights. The project started this week with the construction of a new soccer field. This project is set to be completed with park opening in the fall of 2023.
Let’s have a great pickleball summer and remember the reason we are all out there is to get a little exercise, have fun, and hopefully make a new friend.
Bill and Linda G.
Posted 12/10/2022
Picklers,
First of all, Linda and I would like to wish all our pickleball friends a Merry Christmas and a Happy Healthy New Year.
This is to let anyone looking for another indoor facility this winter know that the Club at Prairie Stone has finally, according to the players, improved the visibility of the ball. Progress moves slowly as we have been asking for new darker curtains for right at 10 years and they have finally been installed. With the use of white balls against the dark background and improved side lighting it is much better. Ted Gamrat has been doing most of the organizing and contacting of players.
Right now there is open 50+ play every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from approximately 8:30 - 11:30 with most players arriving around 9:00. Play is still $3.00 for residents and nonresidents. If anyone wants to do a ladder league or river game on the other days of the week or in the afternoons, I’m sure the management would accommodate you. There are also private court rentals during the non-50+ times.
Ken Kirkendall is doing individual and group lessons as well as Pickleball 101, 102 and 103. Contact The Club at 847-285-5400 for details.
For those of you that remember when we had Deb Harrison here doing clinics, this is to let you know how she is doing now. Her partner in the games, Ruth Weil, whom we have been fortunate to become good friends with and play pickleball with, is even shorter than Deb but one heck of a great player in her own right.
DEC 8
Florida Senior Games, presented by Humana, Athletes of the Year Continue Their Pickleball Success
WESLEY CHAPEL - It was a day of Florida Senior Games, presented by Humana, Pickleball royalty at the Men’s and Women’s Singles competition Thursday, as four Florida Senior Games Athletes of the Year were in competition at the Sarah Vande Berg Tennis and Wellness Center.
The most decorated Pickleball athlete in the history of the Florida Senior Games, Deb Harrison, of The Villages, won her 10th Women’s Singles Gold Medal, in the 75-79 age group. Harrison’s first singles gold medal came in 2005 in the 55-59 age group.
Harrison (at right), the 2018 Florida Senior Games Female Athlete of the Year, has won 14 Women’s Doubles Gold Medals and 14 Mixed Doubles Gold Medals for a total of 38 gold medals since 2004. She will team with Ruth Weil, of The Villages, in Women’s Doubles on Friday in an attempt to bring her total 39 since 2004.
She also competed in Table Tennis on Tuesday winning two silver medals and a gold medal.
Picklers,
With the weather we are now having and the long range forecast not being favorable, all outdoor organized 50+ play has been cancelled for the rest of this season. I know most of you will be doing your indoor play at the dome in Hanover Park, but if you are in need of another facility, we still have the courts at The Club at Prairie Stone available. I was out there recently and they have replaced one of the white curtains with a blue one which has improved the visibility. The following is from their website which includes 31/2 hours of play for $3.00 5 days a week and private court rentals in the afternoons and evenings:OPEN PLAY (6 COURTS)Anyone 50+ years of age and of all skill levels are welcome!
8:30am - Noon | Monday - Friday | October - May
Play Passes - 3 Visits $9/12 10 Visits $30/40
Play is held outdoors at Fabbrini Park June-September.
PICKLEBALL RENTALSCourts are available weekdays 1-4pm
1 hour - $15 per court 2 hours - $20 per court
As well as weeknights and weekends for the
1 hour prime time rate - $35 per court
Hope to see you on the courts!
Bill G.
Posted 9/9/2022
Picklers,
Exciting news for Hoffman Picklers, especially for those of us north of the tollway.
The following email was sent to me just this afternoon asking all of us for our help: "Bill and Linda, hope all is well. Wanted to first off let you know that we are planning to replace the entire fence around the pickleball courts at Fabbrini Park as well as resurface the courts next year. We are also looking to convert the in-line hockey rink on the North Side of Hoffman Estates to five dedicated pickleball courts. Was wondering if you could help me in getting signatures of pickleball players that would be in support of dedicated courts (that already have lights) on the north side. This project will be a state- funded project so community support is huge.” This is the park adjacent to Thomas Jefferson grade school.
Here is a link to support the project. https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/sv/N11M8gE/PineParkRenovationPlan
For those of you that would like to test your knowledge of pickleball rules or learn more of the rules, here is a test put out by USA Pickleball designed for players to test their knowledge: select the link below.
Pickleball Test
Posted 11/15/2020
The Club at Prairie Stone and the Triphahn Center are closed for pickleball until further notice.
Fabbrini is still open for outdoor play.
Stay-at-Home Advisory for Region 10 Begins November 16
In an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19 within Region 10, The Cook County Department of Public Health issued a Stay-at-Home Advisory for Suburban Cook County.
The advisory states that residents should refrain from non-essential activities and stay home for at least the next 30 days. The Hoffman Estates Park District Board of Commissioners and staff have decided to follow the advisory set by the Cook County Department of Public Health. Therefore, all non-essential programs and rentals will be cancelled from Monday, November 16 through Wednesday, December 16.
Only the following programs and facilities will be operating during this Stay-at-Home Advisory:
The Club at Prairie Stone Fitness Center
Triphahn Center: Fitness Center and registration desk during operating hours.
Willow Recreation Center: The fitness center is open with a 3-person limit. Reservations are required by calling 847-285-5440.
Bridges of Poplar Creek Country Club: open for round play with shared carts, golf outings, and driving range usage.
Early Learning & Care (full-day preschool & child care)
HEParks Preschool (part-day preschool)
STAR Study Hall
All other currently running HEParks programs will be cancelled for the rest of the late fall session. Credits for all cancelled classes will be processed to your household account.
Please follow HEParks on social media and through our e-blasts for virtual programs and events you and your family can do while we all stay at home and work to decrease the cases of COVID-19 in our community.
Stay safe and healthy.
Bill G.
Posted 10/6/2020
Picklers,
Good news and bad news
The Good news: The lights will be fixed tomorrow, Wednesday, Oct. 7!!!
The Bad news: The courts will be closed tomorrow, Wednesday, Oct. 7 from 9:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. while the lights are fixed.
A reminder to save the date for the drive-by celebration of George Cridland’s 94th birthday. Here is a repeat of the instructions: Elvira would like to have a party, but due to our present conditions this is impossible. Here is what she would like to do instead: She would like as many of us as possible to do a drive by celebration on Saturday, Oct. 17th at 3:00 p.m. She would like the cars to line up starting around 2:45 in the Ela Library parking lot. The library’s address is 275 Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich, IL 60047, United States. Elvira and George's address is 120 D Mohawk Trail Rd, Lake Zurich, 60047.
The Cridland’s house will be on the passenger side of your car when you are driving passed.
Here is a humorous evaluation of your or your fellow players pickleball skills. You will be able to see a certain amount of truth to each skill level and I’m sure be able to identify with or think of individuals that fit each skill level. Enjoy!
Keep your paddles up and stay safe!
Bill G.
Posted9/25/2020
Two items have come up since the last email.
1. For those of you that know Elvira Cridland, her husband, George, will be having his 94th birthday this October. Elvira would like to have a party, but due to our present conditions this is impossible. Here is what she would like to do instead: She would like as many of us as possible to do a drive by celebration on Saturday, Oct. 17th at 3:00 p.m. She would like the cars to line up starting around 2:45 in the Ela Library parking lot. The library’s address is 275 Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich, IL 60047, United States. Elvira and George's address is 120 D Mohawk Trail Rd, Lake Zurich, 60047. ` Please pass this information on to anyone that might be interested.
2. There is one change to the indoor play schedule at The Club at Prairie Stone. After discussing it with Wayne, there will be no ladder league until at least after the Christmas/New Years break. At that time we will reevaluate the health situation and let everyone know if there will be a league session starting at that time.
For those of you that missed the winter schedule and pricing, the email is posted on our website, Hoffmanestatespickleball.com under club emails and communication.
Keep your paddle up and, hopefully, we will all be on the courts together soon.
Posted 9/16/2020
Picklers,
Now that there is a feeling of fall in the air, here is an update as to where the pickleball program is as of right now.
Outdoor play is still at your own risk with no real organized play. Thanks to everyone that is respecting the wishes of the park district by keeping their chairs off the courts while they cure this summer. The same to everyone respecting the Play to 11 and exiting the courts for the next 4 up when the courts are crowded. Hopefully, we are back to normal next year and we can all get back together.
According to Dustin Hugen, the director of parks, the light pole needed to turn on the lights for evening play has been on order for over 12 weeks. The lights will go on when the pole is up.
Dustin is also aware of new cracks developing and the slipperiness of the white lines causing the ball to skid. He has previously agreed to work on gates when the season is over.
In addition to the 10 courts we have at Fabbrini, there are 8 other pickleball courts in Hoffman Estates. There are two painted on tennis courts at each of the following parks:
Charlemagne Park – two courts – 3799 Bourdeaux Dr
South Ridge Park – two courts – 1450 Freeman Road
Cannon Crossings Park – two courts – 1675 Nicholson Dr
Olmstead Park – two courts - 4500 Olmstead Dr.
At this time, the 50+ indoor program at The Club at Prairie Stone, is scheduled to be the same as in past years with some COVID related restrictions. For the play schedule, go to Hoffmanestatespickleball.com.
Here are the additional restrictions as well as court rental information from Beth Zimmer, Operations Manager at The Club at Prairie Stone for those of you not wanting to play in large groups.
We currently do not have any regular daytime rentals therefore you can start your season 9a-12p on 6 courts whenever you are ready. Please notify players of the following new guidelines.
1. Each player will need to sign in at the front desk prior to entering the gym.
2. All purchases must be made prior to entering the gymnasium. This means players will have to be patient as we properly check everyone in.
3. Masks must be worn when entering the facility, walking the common areas, the washrooms, and when on the sidelines.
4. When on the sidelines players must sit in designated spacing
(6 feet apart) on the bleachers.
Rental prices as follows:
Monday – Friday before 4pm: $15 for 1 hour and $20 for 2 hours. Once pickleball starts rentals will have to be between 12p-4p. Evenings and weekends will have to remain at $35/hour.
In addition to indoor pickleball at The Club, there is also pickleball at the Triphahn Center. Here is the schedule and protocol for Triphahn:
Preregistration is required to play Pickleball according to phase 4 guidelines. Preregister online or when you arrive.
Tuesdays at the Triphahn Center Gym, 4:00-5:30pm
50+ Only (FREE to 50+ club members)
Wednesdays: 6:00-9:00pm Open Play
Register Here/$5 Per Day
Please bring your own paddles and water bottle. Balls will be provided.
Posted June 22, 2020
Picklers,
What a great problem. 10 courts and still people waiting. This email is primarily for those players that still come during the Monday, Wednesday, and Friday play time that was and will be again reserved for 50+ club play. We now have a new shed for our equipment that is, hopefully, more damage- proof than the old one. Wayne (The Candy Man), Jeff Frank, and I have keys to it and the contents. Since Linda and I are still not playing in large groups, Wayne and Jeff will be taking care of business.
The old way of hanging the paddle racks inside by the courts can no longer happen for many reasons, but the main one is that the fence we used to hang them on is gone. Therefor they can no longer be hung permanently. Over the weekend I added hooks to them so they will now be hung outside the courts near the shed just on play days. They will also not be stacked on top of each other, but spread out to keep better social distancing. Since they need to be put away at the end of play, If you are leaving the courts and the racks are still up but not being used, PLEASE take them down and put them in the shed. They aren’t super expensive, but they are a lot of work to make.
The two different sets are labeled Winners (Gold medal, 1st place, luckiest team) and Losers (Silver medal, 2nd place, Nice try, Good effort, sun was in our eyes). When you come off the court, place your paddle in the appropriate rack and wait your turn to go back out on the courts. The two different racks will take turns going out 4 players at a time. This is a fair way to use the courts, helps with socializing, and gives everyone a chance to get good games.
Please put your name on your paddle on both sides near the handle so others can clearly read it. This way they can call out your name when it is time to go on the courts without having to handle your paddle.
Medical emergency: In the past we have had medical emergencies where we have had to contact 911 to help injured players. Having emergency contact information available in case you are unable to communicate that information is critical.
In the past, we have handed out medical id forms and plastic sleeves to attach to your bags in case of an emergency. Since we are not there to do this, here is something that is probably a better idea.
Road iD’s is a very simple way to always have your medical information available. Please look into having something with you.
For those of you looking to up your game by taking lessons, here are 2 of our players that are now giving lessons:
Ken Kirkendall is giving lessons indoors at Prairie Stone. His contact information is
George Kas is giving lessons outdoors.
For contact information, contact me and I will share.
If you know of anyone wanting to be on our email list, please pass on our contact information.
See you on the courts someday.
Bill G.
Posted June 1, 2020
Picklers,
We are getting so much closer to opening. These pictures were taken yesterday by Jon S.
The one remaining tennis court is in blue. (Need to work on getting it changed over to pickleball courts) The new and older resurfaced courts are in green.
During phase 3 of the state reopening, these are rules the park district is requesting we follow when the courts reopen:
1. No 50+ club activities or shared equipment. The shed is being repaired but no equipment will be stored in it.
2. Singles only. Check out Youtube for rules and variations of skinny singles for those of us on the senior side of life.
3. Bring your own pickleballs.
4. No chairs on the courts. This will be true all summer until the park district gives permission as the new surface cures.
5. Since the courts cover so much space we do not have to follow the group size of 10 as required by the state. With 10 courts we are allowed 2 per court.
Hopefully, as the conditions improve we will be back to playing doubles soon. I would like to see couples from the same household or families be able to play doubles ASAP. Some of this is still a work in progress.
Here is a discount for club members wanting to upgrade their equipment before the season gets going:
Gamma Sports has a 40% sale starting today. There was no information as to the length of the sale. The code to get the discount is SUMMERFUN20. Free shipping if your order is over $59.00. Normally I would compile an order and send it in which would guarantee free shipping. However there is nothing normal right now, so if your order is under the $59.00, find someone to go in on an order. Their website is Gammasports.com and the sale is on everything, including balls, clothes, nets and paddles.
Happy pickling and see you on the courts sometime soon.
Bill G.
Posted May 30, 2020
Picklers,
The pickleball courts at Fabbrini Park on now on a firm opening by June 5. Here is what I received from the park district administration:
" Not sure if you heard but Fabbrini was severely flooded and half the parking lot is still under water. They were unable to work for a little bit so the schedule is just pushed slightly.
Right now for sure June 5th. Now I say that just in case anything else happens. They are confident they can get it done through this weekend and by the end of the day on Monday the first. But I always just like to give a for sure date. I just say the 5th in case anything else happens.
There are no changes to any of the rules and regulations that were put out on the 19th. Those were put in place with the phase 3 guidelines already.”
For a complete list of the regulations refer to the Club Emails and Communications on our website or Facebook page.
As you can see by the photos below, the courts are not quite finished and the parking lot is occupied with something other than cars.
Safe pickling! Remember, we are not just with the players on the courts, but with everyone they have been with.
Bill G.
Posted May 15, 2020
Picklers,
Everyone is anxious to get back on the courts as soon as possible, but, and there is always a but, unfortunately it won’t be for a while in Hoffman. According to the park district administration, the gates will remain locked. When I hear of any updates, I will pass them on. If anyone goes past the courts and you notice progress on the new courts, please pass on any pictures. We are still hibernating in Florida until things settle down.
Here is the response I received to my question of reopening the courts:
"Outdoor courts are part of phase 4 of the Governor’s plan at this point. The earliest we can get to phase 3 would be May 29th. I know on our end we will follow those orders precisely. I am not sure on a date of when we could get to phase 4 but my personal belief would be more closer to the 4th of July. With that being said I don’t even know if our 50+ activities will even begin organization yet based on that being a high risk population. I believe we are on the same page and both agree it will be awhile until things are back to normal.
Once the courts open in phase 4 where anyone could stop out and play, people will be expected to follow the guidelines for social distancing set by the state. We will not be able to monitor or enforce this all hours of the day, but we hope people will be respectful of the rules until we can resume normal operations under safe conditions. But I will not be having anything 50+ until we are cleared to do so, even if the courts are open just for general use in phase 4."
If and when the courts reopen, there will be no organized 50+ play. Everyone will need to bring their own equipment and play at their own risk until large group gatherings are allowed.
When the courts do open, here are the guidelines for open play as provided by the USAPA:
In response to COVID-19, facility managers and players should adjust normal court schedules to help control the number of players playing with large groups. Due to the possibility of players returning from high-risk areas, or who have been infected and are contagious, extra precautions are necessary to prevent the asymptomatic transmission of the virus. Group size counts for play sessions must include all players and staff, and players must strictly adhere to social gathering and distancing policies, according to local, state, and federal authorities. Special considerations should be made for transitional periods between playing groups when overlap and crowding is more likely to occur. Dependent upon the specific timing and withdrawal of local COVID-19 restrictions, players should be prepared to adhere to a minimum of a six-foot social distancing measure, as defined by the CDC.
IF YOU DECIDE TO PLAY:
The following information does not apply for
everyone as stay-at-home restrictions and
mandates vary state to state. However, if you live
in an area where local stay-at-home or shelter-in-
place mandates have been relaxed or modified,
and courts are available for play, we encourage
you to take every precaution and follow these
safety recommendations as well as those
implemented and required by your facility or club
and local, state and federal government authority.
Make sure that your state, regional and local authorities satisfy federal criteria.
If your courts are open and available for play, adhere to safety precautions established by the CDC and the facility.
Consider playing with only family members or others who reside in your household.
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COVID-19 RETURN TO PLAY USAPA.ORG/USA-Pickleball-statement-on-the-coronavirus/
2
MINIMIZING RISK: MANAGING SCHEDULES AND PLAY SESSIONS
IF YOU DECIDE TO PLAY (cont’d): MANAGING PLAY SESSIONS:
Wash your hands with soap and water and bring personal use hand sanitizer to the courts.
Clean and wipe down your paddles and water bottles. Do not share paddles or any other equipment or clothing.
Bring a full personal use water bottle(s) and avoid touching or using public water fountains.
Bring tissues or a handkerchief for contained sneezing and coughing or consider wearing a mask.
Consider wearing gloves to the courts and avoid touching court gates, fences, benches, etc.
Also consider wearing gloves during play to avoid picking up pickleballs with your hands.
Use new pickleballs and a new grip or fresh tape on your paddle handle if possible.
Coordinate with your play group so that each person serves with a different color ball. If multiple colors are not an option, use a sharpie and prominently mark personal pickleballs with your initials.
Adhere to social gathering and distancing policies according to local, state, and federal authorities. Limit your distance to six feet or more to other players.
Avoid contact with others, such as hand shaking and high fives.
Group size counts should include players and staff, and account for transition periods between sessions.
Limit or stagger playing groups throughout open play schedule and consider alternate days for various groups.
Use outdoor courts/spaces whenever possible.
Consider playing singles only and avoid doubles play as doubles is not conducive for six-foot
social distancing and leads to incidental contact
with playing partners.
If you do elect to play doubles, consider playing
with only those who reside within your
household.
Adhere to CDC guidelines by not touching your
face (after handling a ball or paddle).
Consider using hand sanitizer between games.
Wash your hands after each match.
Use your paddle and foot to pick up pickleballs
and transfer them to your opponent. If utilizing a raised net, hit the ball under the net to your opponent.
Avoid changing ends of the court.
Maintain proper social distancing from other
players in between games and during time outs.
DO NOT PLAY IF YOU:
Are exhibiting any symptoms of the coronavirus: mild to severe respiratory illness with fever, coughing, difficulty breathing, or other symptoms identified by the CDC.
Have been in contact with someone with COVID-19 in the last 14 days.
Are a vulnerable individual with serious underlying health conditions, including high blood pressure, chronic lung disease, diabetes, obesity, asthma, or whose immune system is compromised such as by chemotherapy for cancer and other conditions requiring such therapy.
WHEN PLAY HAS ENDED:
Leave the court as soon as reasonably possible.
Wash your hands or use hand sanitizer
immediately after your match is over.
Avoid post play socializing.
Avoid locker rooms and changing area –
proceed home.
Thoroughly wash your paddles, grips,
pickleballs, towels, clothes, bags, water bottles, and other items you have used or touched.
Bill G.
Posted March 26, 2020
Picklers,
I don’t know about you, but we are following the Corona Virus guidelines and pretty much self-isolating. The best advice we have tried to follow is to act like we have the virus and do our best not to pass it on to family and friends. Let’s not kill grandma!
So what do we do to stay sane? Of course the usual exercise, TV, read, play games and eat too much. But how do we attempt to get our pickleball fix and, hopefully, keep somewhat ready for when we are able to get safely back on the courts?
Here are some YouTube videos that are a little different than just watching someone else play:
Virtual Pickleball Summit Days 1 and 2 are recorded so far with several players discussing play, safety and health. Several “experts” are giving advice and answering call in questions. I found it very interesting. Definitely an amateur production. I think they will be doing more of these.
In-home Pickleball Exercises by Simone Jardine. Simone and her husband go through a series of drills and exercises that you can do by yourself or if you are lucky enough to be self-isolating with someone else that plays, some drills you can do together. Part One and Part Two
There are hundreds of how-to and tournament videos to watch in addition to these newer ones made for these house-bound times.
The next problem is where and how you can do these drills.
Here, priced from low to high is what I could find :
2 balls designed to be used in your house or garage:
Quick Kids Practice Ball $3.99/ball is the one we have. If it is clean, you can use it on your inside walls and not leave marks.
The Gamma Foam Quiet Ball: It is denser and probably better used in your garage; sells for $8.99 for 6 balls.
Rebounders: These come in many sizes and prices but can easily be set up in a garage or driveway. The price starts at approximately $220. Here is a YouTube video of one in use: Pickleball Rebounder.
Ball Machines: Pricey but fun and easily used by one or two people. Price range from $900 - $1400.If you decide to get any of these balls, be sure to use our club discount PSPC for a 15% discount at Gammasports.com. Unfortunately, when I last checked, they were out of stock at Gamma. We also have a 5% discount with Pickleball Central using the code CRHoffman.If you have any ideas on more toys, sites or drills on how to keep your edge in pickleball in this time of social distancing you think should be passed on, please email them to me. We love our pickleball friends and hope you all practice safe pickleball. Stay healthy and see you on the courts when this all passes. You may receive this email if you are on more than one of my lists. Just delete it.Bill and Linda
Posted Dec. 17, 2019
Picklers,
It is Merry Happy season and many of us will be having family and friends around for the holidays. All play at The Club at Prairie Stone from Monday, December 23 - Friday, January 3, 2020 will be open to all ages. If you are bringing guests, you will need to use one of your passes for them. Just check in at the desk and let them know. There will be NO play Tuesday, Dec. 24 or Tuesday, Dec. 31.
The Fall 2019 Ladder League is over. To see final results, go too Hoffmanestatespickleball.com and select the picture of a ladder.
The Winter Ladder League will begin Monday, January 6. As of right now there are 18 of the possible 24 slots signed up, along with a number of subs. If you want one of the remaining places or to sub, contact Wayne (The Candy Man) Burdick at (847) 274-5918 or [email protected] ASAP.
Clean up time: I know many of you have moved or for some reason no longer are able to play with our club. Let us know If you want an end to these annoying emails. On the other hand, if you have friends that are not on our email list but are always annoying you to forward information, have them contact us to include them.
All of the paddles that were ordered from Gamma have arrived. I sent an email to everyone that ordered a paddle with the amount you owe, but sometimes they end up in your spam folders. Please pick them up or have someone pick them up this week or you may not get them until we return from the land of sun and fun.
We still have two Compass paddles that have wandered off. Please check your bags for stray paddles and those of you with new paddles, please get your names on them. Return address labels work great.
Thanks to all of you, 2019 has been another great year for Hoffman pickleball. Our number of players and pickleball friends continues to grow along with the number of courts on which to play. We are all blessed to be able to participate in this game with such great people.
Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, and Happy New Year.
Bill and Linda
Christmas Pickleball Poem
Twas the night before Christmas
And out on the courts
Were all types of people
In tennies and shorts
All of them beaming and shouting with joy
Happy as children with a new Christmas toy
Out of their bags, colorful paddles appeared
To the kitchen they scurried, lined up, and cheered
Let’s dink it and drop it, let’s volley and kill
The balls started bouncing as if without will
The sound from the paddles and balls as they rose
Moved all of the players to the tips of their toes
Cross court and forward, balls started to fly
When appeared an old player with a wink in his eye
Dressed in all red from his head to his toe
A smile on his face and a warm, cheery glow
0-0-2 he shouted as he served me the ball
He moved like the wind, barely saw him at all
Then all of a sudden, it was 11 to 0
As we lightly touched paddles, he said he must go
Before I asked where, he disappeared in a haze,
But I heard his farewell while still in my daze
“Keep playing and laughing and having your fun!
Merry Pickleball to all, my work here is done!”
[A Poem By Greg LaVelle] Submitted by Joyce Troyer
Posted Dec. 3, 2019
Picklers,
As many of you remember, last year we had a 50% discount on Gamma Paddles. This year their Christmas special is not quite as good, but it is 40% off any paddle. If you want a new Gamma paddle for Christmas or as a gift, get me your order by next Friday, December 6. I need the name and color. Your cost will be 40% of whatever the cost is on Gammasports.com. Pay me when you get your paddle. I will be sending the order in Saturday, December 7 in order to have it back before the holidays. I hope to be playing Tues., Thurs., and Fri. at least for a short time, and will have the paddles there for you to try.
Wednesday, Dec. 4, is the last day to let Jill E. know if you are going to the party on Dec. 10. Jill’s email is: [email protected]
Prairie Stone will be open on all play days through the end of the year as Christmas and New Years are on Wednesdays. From December 23 - January 3 we will be family friendly. If you have family or friends in for the holidays and they are not 50, they are welcome to come and play. You will need to use your passes for them.
Speaking of passes, please stop at the desk to sign in and get your passes before playing each time.
Bill G.
Posted November 17, 2019
Holiday Party
Come and join your pickleball friends for a holiday party.
The date will be Tuesday, December 10, 12:30 at the Saddle Room. To get to the Saddle Room go past The Club at Prairie Stone to the first stop sign, turn left and the Saddle Room will be on your left. The address is 2559 Pratum Ave, Hoffman Estates, IL 60192.
A happy hour/mixer will be in the Wine Bar from 12:30-1:30. The pre-ordered lunches will be served in the dining room around 1:30. You need to RSVP to Jill at [email protected] or 312-501-4785 by Wednesday, December 4 with your food choice. The restaurant is providing separate checks. You will be given a number by Jill when you arrive. Everything you order will then go on that number ticket. Be sure to ask Wayne his ticket number.
Below is a pdf of the menu. By selecting it, it should open with the full menu. If you want to modify your meal from the choices on the menu, please be very specific in your email to Jill. Everyone will receive their own check after the meal.
Bill G.
Posted Nov. 3, 2019
Picklers,
Our social chairwoman, Jill Echternach, has been busy getting a venue and date for our annual holiday party. We will once again be at the Saddle Room in Hoffman Estates. The date is Dec. 10, and more details will follow once the time, menu choices, and prices are available. Try to attend if for no other reason than to see what your friends look like all cleaned up.
For those of you that can’t get enough pickleball, here is a link you can use to watch live streaming of the USA Nationals Pickleball Tournament. The only somewhat local player involved that I am aware of is Anni Pennstone, now of The Villages, Florida.
Good luck to all the players involved with the ladder league starting tomorrow, November 4. Here is a link for the Fall 2019 league. The ladder URL will also be linked to the ladder information on our website, Hoffmanestatespickleball.com. The league participants can use the link to check out their standings and their next opponents. The rest of us can use it to see how are friends are performing.
Bill G.
Posted Oct. 8, 2019
Picklers,
Wayne has spoken: The start of our indoor season will be this coming Friday, October 11, at 9:00 a.m.
The outdoor nets are still up, so if you want to play, organize your own groups and bring balls as the outdoor 50+ will be officially over on Friday.
For prices and the entire list of times for indoor pickleball at The Club of Prairie Stone, go to our website: Hoffmanestatespickleball.com
Don’t forget to let Wayne know ASAP if you are interested in the ladder league either as a regular or a sub.
I wish I could send you some of this Florida heat as it is still in the 90's every day.
Here is just 1 of a possible 303 tips on how to improve your game. The other 302 can be found on a link on our website under the heading Tipbits.
TIPBITS #303 Q N A (TRACKING #2)
QUESTION: I need some tips on how to focus on the ball. I am getting up there in age and having trouble focusing on the ball leaving my opponent's paddle and following it to my paddle.
ANSWER: Last time, the Question above was answered by recognizing that you must attempt to bring your greatest Level of Focus to each and every game and each and every point. Further, it was suggested, that in order to do that, you need to be fully rested, able to devote your full Focus only to the task at hand, that you'll need to be alert, be positive, be intense and be able to maintain that intensity, that level of Focus, for the entire duration of your play. Finally, several ideas were presented as to just what to do and what not to do. Those thoughts will help you get more Focused, in general. But what about some specifics?
Let's break this down a little. The Return and the Third Shot off the Return are your first opportunities to demonstrate your Level of Focus. Every thing else fits into the second category of opportunities or situations. Let's address the first ones first.
The Return: The Return requires watching the ball for a longer DISTANCE than most other shots. So, it requires you to Focus for the longest period of TIME. Your ability to predict, track and watch the ball on its entire path to your paddle starts with these steps:
1) Watch what your opponent is doing immediately prior to their contact on the ball (in this case, the Serve);
2) Note their position on the court when Serving (near the side line, near the center line or in the middle);
3) Focus on the Server's back swing;
4) Watch the toss of the ball, noting the forward motion of the Server's arm and paddle;
5) Watch the ball at contact.
Now, while always maintaining your Focus on the ball, noting its pace, spin, direction and depth...
6) Move immediately to the ball.
7) Position yourself accordingly and still watching the ball.
8) Execute your Return.
To read some steps you might consider prior to any Return, see TIPBITS # 238, the Return Routine. This will help you have a Plan for what OPTIONS you might have to deal with on your Return.
The Third Shot: Preparing to hit the Third Shot replicates many of the points made above for preparing for the Return. It starts with these steps:
1) Note which side your opponent will use to strike the ball (forehand or backhand).
2) Note their back swing.
3) Note their paddle's forward motion.
4) Observe the ball upon contact.
5) Immediately after contact, determine if the ball will be yours to hit or your partner's.
6) Advise your partner if you or your partner will take the ball.
7) If it's your ball, note its pace, spin, direction and depth.
8) Move immediately to the ball.
9) Position yourself accordingly and still watching the ball,
10) Execute your Third Shot.
So, as in the Return above, you should have determined before hand, what your OPTIONS are going to be for your Third Shot. As an example, if the ball is to your backhand, decide ahead of time where you plan to place the ball. In other words, have a plan ahead of time for each OPTION you'll be presented with! This will help you to Focus on the ball and on nothing else.
This covers the first two situations you'll encounter in each and every game. Next time, we'll address all the other remaining situations, obviously lumping them into just a couple of categories.
Let your compassion result in action on behalf of those in need. See some GOOD OPTIONS at TIPBITS.OR
Bill G.
Posted Oct. 1, 2019
Picklers,
To repeat information from a much earlier email:
The Club at Prairie Stone is usually available for pickleball play on most of our regular scheduled outdoor days if we have inclement weather. Before going there you must call and check for availability. The number is 847-902-5400.
For tomorrow, Wednesday, Oct 2, Jon S. has already called and confirmed it is open for play. The cost is $3.00/play for residents or club members and $4.00/play for nonresidents. You will buy packages of 3 or 10 and they never expire.
The Club at Prairie Stone also has court rentals for private groups. You will have to check at the desk for cost.
Wayne B. will make the final decision to move indoors full time. I will get an email out to everyone when he thinks it is time. Remember to let him know about your interest to play or sub in the ladder league ASAP. [email protected]
The park district also offers individual and group lessons as well as Pickleball 101, 102, and 103 all taught by Ken Kirkendall. You will have to check with the desk for cost.
I have heard nothing but great things about Ken’s lessons and classes. If you want to improve, sign up and learn correct techniques and strategies before bad habits are ingrained.
Here is just one comment from a recent student: I enjoyed my lessons with Ken. I felt he was very helpful, open and knowledgeable. He gave constructive critiques while watching me play and he was interested in any areas that I wanted specific help. I liked his relaxed learning environment and would recommend him as an instructor.
There was another one talking about how he looked like Tom Seleck, etc. but I figured Ken or his wife wrote that so it was deleted.
Bill G.
Posted Sept. 27
Picklers,
Sadly, our outdoor season is coming to an end. In the past, the nets at Fabbrini have been up until the end of Oct. or early November. We will start our indoor play no later than November 3 with that being the first day of the fall ladder league. If the outdoor nets are still up at that time, you will have to decide where you want to play on any given day until Mother Nature takes your choice away.
Wayne (The Candy Man) Burdick will be running the ladder league once again. The fall league will run every Monday from November 4 until Monday, December 23. If you think you will miss more than 3 sessions, please sign up as sub. To sign up for the league, or as a sub (lots of subs needed) contact Wayne at [email protected]. There is only room for 24 players, so sign up ASAP. Wayne has offered to autograph the paddles of the first 5 to sign up.
For a complete list of our indoor times and prices at The Club at Prairie Stone, go to our website, Hoffmanestatespickleball.com.
For those of you not familiar with a ladder league, go to the USAPA website for a complete description of all the options.
Keep your paddle up and see you around Thanksgiving.
Bill G.
Posted September 12, 2019
Picklers,
As most of you know, we have been working on getting more pickleball courts in Hoffman. Our 50+ crowds have been averaging over 40 and up to 70 players per session. Other groups playing have also been filling all 6 courts and having overflow waiting. Using the 2 temporary courts relieves some of the pressure, but when the wind is over 10 mph they become unplayable for the most part and the only group with access to the temporary nets is the our group as we paid for them.
Thanks to the efforts of Victor Katis (Mary’s husband) who helped get us in front of the park board, Robert Kaplan, the board president who is becoming one of our players, and Craig Talsma, the Executive Director of the Hoffman Park District, we are definitely on the park district's radar. I had a very positive and encouraging phone call with Mr. Talsma this p.m. He indicated the park district is well aware of our needs and they are researching possible solutions. Of course, it comes down to money and how best to spend it. Let’s all keep our fingers crossed and I will get back when we have more news.
Below is an ad from Pickleball Central. If you are thinking of upgrading your equipment, this is a very good sale and you are also able to use our club code, CRHoffman to get another 5% off on top of this. The indoor season is rapidly approaching and it’s time to get some indoor courts shoes. When you order from Pickleball Central, we also get 5% of your order towards the purchase of next year's balls.
Bill G.
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From Our Blog: Hitting A Consistent & Powerful Serve
Your serve is the one shot you have 100% control over during a pickleball game. You can visualize ball placement, take a breath and send the ball exactly where you want it. But it can be surprisingly difficult to develop a reliable serve even when you have all these factors in your favor. Following are a few tips that help players improve the consistency of their serve and increase power behind it. Read more...
READ MORE
Posted August 14
Picklers,
Bev and Jon Sesterhenn have presented us with what I think is a great way to enjoy each others company and do a good deed at the same time. Here is an email Bev composed and asked me to pass on to our players:
Feed My Starving Children (Get involved : Feed My Starving Children ) is a local non-profit whose mission is to send nutritious food to children who need it. They are located in Schaumburg, and are supported by donations and volunteers. The volunteers meet at their Schaumburg location and put together food packets that are sent to various countries, where local organizations work to distribute them.
Get involved : Feed My Starving ChildrenFMSC, Feed My Starving Children
Sessions are available 6 days a week, mornings, afternoons and evenings, and are 2 hours long.
This is a great opportunity for groups to work together for a good cause. We thought that working one volunteer session together would be a great activity for our Pickleball family. I have tentatively reserved 20 spots (we can have more) for the session on Thursday, August 29, 2:30 to 4:30. If you would like to participate, please email me at [email protected] no later than Monday, August 26.
Thank you!
Bev Sesterhenn
The Challenge Court has proven to be well received and has not only given those players that want very competitive games a place to play, but has also let those players wanting to play more relaxed games a chance to avoid those same players. The question has come up about why we rotate the challenge court and not leave it on just one court. The reason is an attempt to be as fair as possible to those players involved with the Challenge Court and also the players there just for fun. As we know, not all the courts are equal when it comes to playability. The court by the gate has a downhill side and interference from players coming and going. Court 5 has to deal with the sewer. Also, it is true that if we made one of the outside (better courts) the designated Challenge Court those players could always play without interference, but they would always be interfering with the other courts on their way on and off. By rotating the Challenge Court we all have to deal with the same issues at various times and still get the kind of games we want.
Our attempt to meet with the park district administration has proven to be more difficult than we thought. We now have been delayed until after Labor Day as the new personnel are getting acclimated and we are low on the priority list.
Bill G.
Posted June 24
Picklers,
During the past week, we have had several players from our club enjoy successes:
Elvira Cridland and her partner, Susan Coles, won Gold at the National Senior Games in Albuquerque, NM.
Steve Delong and Seiko Kawata took bronze at the Lockport tournament and Judy Beckwith and her partner, Bala, took silver in the 4.5 division.
Koz's (Carol Koszola) softball team won gold at the National Senior Games in the 75+ bracket and bronze in the 70 - 74 age bracket. Carol Floros was the official score keeper.
Wednesday Picnic In The Park: The forecast for this Wednesday is sunny and warm. A perfect day to visit, eat, and make a new friend under the trees at Fabbrini. BYO Everything.
New Players: As you may have noticed, we have a lot of new players and a few new to the game this summer. Thanks to everyone for making them feel comfortable and showing them the ropes. We are also getting a lot of out of town guests who also have commented on what nice people we have. 👏🏻
Sign In: Some of you are wondering why we are having you sign in when you get to the courts. It has nothing to do with your 50+ club membership as that is not our job to check. We are trying to get as much information as we can showing the number of pickleball players and tennis players on a daily basis. If you play in any groups other then 50+ at Fabbrini throughout the week and would be willing to do something to get me player numbers I would appreciate it. A simple head count would help, but a sign-in sheet with actual names would be even better. Also have tennis players sign-in. If the tennis players choose not to, please write down how many played and for approximately how long. We would like as much information as you can get between now and the 6 County Senior Games which are the week of July 8. Attached is a form you can use for sign-in.
Tournament Registration: Registration for the 6 County Games is over, so in the next few days I will send out the teams in each bracket. I am waiting for the last of the forms that were mailed to arrive. If both partners were not registered by last Friday, your names will not appear on the list. When you get the list, please look it over to make sure the spelling is correct and that you are in the correct age brackets.
Tournament Help: We need help all three days (July 9, 11, 13). We need lines people and photographers, especially. If you are available any or all those days for all or part of the day, please go to SignUp Genius and register. Thank you!!!
Bill G.The official start of 50+ pickleball ( Wednesday, May 1) is rapidly approaching. The 50+ reserved courts will be every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from May through October except for holidays or if the park district reserves the courts or park for a special occasion. If the weather cooperates, we may start sooner.
What to expect at 50+ Pickleball:
1. Friendly competitive social pickleball.
2. A paddle-up system to make for social play without the anxiety of getting in a game and to mix up the foursomes.
3. Two Challenge Courts where you are able to challenge other plays to a highly competitive game played more like tournament play than social play.
4. Two beginner courts for those new to the game and who may feel intimidated getting on the courts with more experienced players. Beginners are always encouraged to move off the beginner courts ASAP and join the main group play.
In order to play with the 50+ group, you need to sign up for 50+ pickleball with the park district.
You are able to sign up 3 different ways and all are free:
1. The Hoffman Estates Park District web site: 235301 - 50+ Outdoor Pickleball at Fabbrini
2. Call the park district at 847-885-7500 and be sure to emphasize 50+ pickleball.
3. Go to the Triphahn Center in person 1685 W. Higgins Rd
As the old timers know, we pay for our own supplies by collecting $10.00 a year from those that wish to contribute. Fortunately, from those of you using the various discount codes listed on our website, Hoffmanestatespickleball.com we have enough money to hopefully get through another year. The bad news is most of the companies are stopping their contributions to clubs, so in the future we may need to collect again.
For faster communication, please sign up for the 50+ pickleball TeamReach by downloading the app and using the code 50HEPB.
There will be times where events occur such the as the courts being closed unexpectedly or items being left at the courts and it is necessary to pass on information to a large group.
Save the date: The 6 County pickleball tournament is scheduled for July 9 (women’s), July 11(men’s) and July 13 (mixed). More information to follow.
Bill and Linda G.
Posted June 8
Honor Flight: Elvira Cridland’s husband George was on the Honor Flight for WWII veterans this past Wednesday. What a great tribute to a great man. In his lap are all the cards and letters that many of you wrote to him.
Pickleball order: I will be ordering DuraFast 40 yellow pickleballs for the club on Wednesday, June12. With the bulk order and our club discount, the price per ball will drop from $2.84/ball plus shipping to approximately $2.45/ball and shipping would be free. If you are interested in getting your own pickleballs to use during open play or for practice, let me know by 2:00 p.m. Wednesday. Order in multiples of6or12.
Pickleball Order II: I have been told the paddle order will be here tomorrow evening, so I will have them for you Monday. 🤞
If you ordered a Compass, the cost is $70.00 and the Shard is $65.00. Make your checks out to Linda Graba.
Ball Money:The money being used to buy the club pickleballs is from money donated by club players last year or money accrued at the various websites that we have a discount with. If this is your first year playing with us at Fabbrini, and you have not donated money for club purchases in the past, please give $10.00 to Linda the next time you play.
50+ Membership: Please go to the Triphahn Center (1685 W Higgins Rd, Hoffman Estates, IL 60169)to pay your 50+ dues. It is open from 5:15 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. You have at least 2 more weeks before the park district will be checking as they have had some changes in management and are in the process of hiring.
6 County Senior Games: The following is a reprint from a previous email for those of you that missed it:
The 6 County Senior Games registration formshave been mailed to those of you that participated in the past. The online registration is live at www.ilipra.org. Go to “Learn" and then to "Event Calendar for July".
You can also use the link http://bit.ly/2PUws6E
Wednesday Picnics: Some of you may have noticed a group under the trees having lunch and socializing. Every Wednesday we will be having a BYO Everything picnic. Once we get a few more people, we have volunteers to do some barbecuing. Come, join in, and make a new friend.
Challenge Court:So far the challenge court seems to be working. The wait time can be a little longer, but if you don’t want to wait, just paddle up and play on the other courts. Now that we are actually playing, here are the Challenge Court rules again:
Challenge Court Guidelines
Paddle up in pairs. If there is a single paddle in the queue, anyone may rack his/hers to partner.
Winners stay to play again. After a second consecutive win, all 4 players leave and 4 new players go to the challenge court.
Any player can challenge, and no one can restrict them. But no one needs to “go easy” during play.
If the announcement is made to play to 9 points due to crowding, this will apply to the challenge court as well.
The challenge court will rotate around all 6 courts so there will be no favoritism shown to a particular court. This will cause a little more disruption but we all can deal with it.
Honor Flight: Elvira Cridland’s husband George was on the Honor Flight for WWII veterans this past Wednesday. What a great tribute to a great man. In his lap are all the cards and letters that many of you wrote to him.
Pickleball order: I will be ordering DuraFast 40 yellow pickleballs for the club on Wednesday, June12. With the bulk order and our club discount, the price per ball will drop from $2.84/ball plus shipping to approximately $2.45/ball and shipping would be free. If you are interested in getting your own pickleballs to use during open play or for practice, let me know by 2:00 p.m. Wednesday. Order in multiples of6or12.
Pickleball Order II: I have been told the paddle order will be here tomorrow evening, so I will have them for you Monday. 🤞
If you ordered a Compass, the cost is $70.00 and the Shard is $65.00. Make your checks out to Linda Graba.
Ball Money:The money being used to buy the club pickleballs is from money donated by club players last year or money accrued at the various websites that we have a discount with. If this is your first year playing with us at Fabbrini, and you have not donated money for club purchases in the past, please give $10.00 to Linda the next time you play.
50+ Membership: Please go to the Triphahn Center (1685 W Higgins Rd, Hoffman Estates, IL 60169)to pay your 50+ dues. It is open from 5:15 a.m. - 10:30 p.m. You have at least 2 more weeks before the park district will be checking as they have had some changes in management and are in the process of hiring.
6 County Senior Games: The following is a reprint from a previous email for those of you that missed it:
The 6 County Senior Games registration formshave been mailed to those of you that participated in the past. The online registration is live at www.ilipra.org. Go to “Learn" and then to "Event Calendar for July".
You can also use the link http://bit.ly/2PUws6E
Wednesday Picnics: Some of you may have noticed a group under the trees having lunch and socializing. Every Wednesday we will be having a BYO Everything picnic. Once we get a few more people, we have volunteers to do some barbecuing. Come, join in, and make a new friend.
Challenge Court:So far the challenge court seems to be working. The wait time can be a little longer, but if you don’t want to wait, just paddle up and play on the other courts. Now that we are actually playing, here are the Challenge Court rules again:
Challenge Court Guidelines
Paddle up in pairs. If there is a single paddle in the queue, anyone may rack his/hers to partner.
Winners stay to play again. After a second consecutive win, all 4 players leave and 4 new players go to the challenge court.
Any player can challenge, and no one can restrict them. But no one needs to “go easy” during play.
If the announcement is made to play to 9 points due to crowding, this will apply to the challenge court as well.
The challenge court will rotate around all 6 courts so there will be no favoritism shown to a particular court. This will cause a little more disruption but we all can deal with it.
Posted May 28
I really don’t like to fill your inbox with unnecessary emails, but with the crazy weather conditions our play site is very inconsistent at this time of year. Once June 1 gets here we will just be on an outdoor schedule and there may be days where we can’t play. Bummer!
If it is raining at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow, we have Prairie Stone available. The problem going forward is that they need to know by 6:00 a.m. if we are going to be coming. I will not be setting my alarm for 5:30 a.m. to predict the weather at 9:00 to see if we need to change venues.
The good news is the demo paddles have arrived and any of you that want to try before you buy, will have tomorrow and Friday to try them out. The order goes in Friday afternoon.
A wealth of information on improving your game has just gone online. 5 years of tips on improving your game from a very good 5.0 player from The Villages who wants his name kept anonymous is now published for all to see. Out of respect to him, I have not published any of his information, but he is now making it available. Please go to our website,Hoffmanestatespickleball.comfor a link to his work. Select the heading Tipbits.
I really don’t like to fill your inbox with unnecessary emails, but with the crazy weather conditions our play site is very inconsistent at this time of year. Once June 1 gets here we will just be on an outdoor schedule and there may be days where we can’t play. Bummer!
If it is raining at 8:00 a.m. tomorrow, we have Prairie Stone available. The problem going forward is that they need to know by 6:00 a.m. if we are going to be coming. I will not be setting my alarm for 5:30 a.m. to predict the weather at 9:00 to see if we need to change venues.
The good news is the demo paddles have arrived and any of you that want to try before you buy, will have tomorrow and Friday to try them out. The order goes in Friday afternoon.
A wealth of information on improving your game has just gone online. 5 years of tips on improving your game from a very good 5.0 player from The Villages who wants his name kept anonymous is now published for all to see. Out of respect to him, I have not published any of his information, but he is now making it available. Please go to our website,Hoffmanestatespickleball.comfor a link to his work. Select the heading Tipbits.
Posted May 26
Picklers,
Monday’s play will be at Fabbrini. Prairie Stone is closed to pickleball on Memorial Day.
I have good news and bad news about the paddle order.
The good news is, the paddles that were ordered have come in and I will have them at the courts Monday.
The bad news is, the demo paddles that were to accompany them were sent to our Florida home. Our neighbor Fed Exed them to us Saturday, so I hope to have them by Monday.
The next order has to be in by Friday, May 31.
Maybe if those of you trying to decide if you are ordering a new paddle are real nice, some of the people getting their paddles Monday will let you look at theirs and, if you bribe them enough, they will let you touch it and/or play a game with it.
Those of you getting paddles, please make your checks out to Linda Graba.
Those of you that ordered a Compass, the cost is $70.00.
Ellen Massa,
Karie McClure
Karen Shrader
Mary Honaker
Karen McMillin
Jeanne Smith
Wayne Burdick
Those of you that ordered a Shard, the cost is $65.00.
Ron Sines yellow
Carl Massa yellow
Dave Hattas yellow
Pete Viohl yellow
Cheryl Olles Pink
Barb Kaufman Pink
Elvira Cridland Pink
Two ideas starting the first week in June:
Pickleball Picnic in the Park:
Each Wednesday beginning June 5, those of you wanting to socialize, bring your lunch and eat under the trees. We have even had players stating they would bring their portable grills for those of us wanting burgers, hot dogs, or some other meat, but they would want to know in advance if anyone was interested in grilling.
Challenge Court:
Starting Monday, June 3, we will be trying something new for those players that sometimes want very competitive games. There will be a Challenge Court that will rotate around the 6 courts on a daily basis, so it is not always on someone's favorite court. There is another paddle rack just for the challenge court. If this works, great, but as we all know, not all ideas are good ones. So if after a trial period it is a bust, we will drop it.
Here are the guidelines for the Challenge Court:
The court being assigned as the challenge court will change each play day. Check the challenge court paddle rack to see which court will be used on any given day.
Paddles must be queued up for play on the challenge court paddle rack. You must rack paddles with your partner.
While the challenge court is intended for intermediate to advanced play, ANY PLAYER may elect to play on the challenge court, and NO OTHER PLAYER may discourage or restrict them from doing so.
Players electing to play on a challenge court should understand that all players on this court are expecting a challenging game and will not be expected to “go easy” on anyone.
Teams may stay together on this court (rack 2 paddles together.)
No team or individual player plays more than 2 consecutive games on the challenge court.
When a game ends, the winning team stays on and stays together after their first win, and a new team comes in to challenge them. The losers come off the court.
If a team wins a second consecutive game, then both teams exit the court and 2 new teams come on.
When there is a single paddle in the queue, any player may rack his/hers to partner.
Players are encouraged not to play exclusively on the challenge court. The most advanced players are encouraged to mix in on other courts and to practice/demonstrate aspects of their soft game for the benefit of the less experienced players. Remember, we all started as less experienced players.
If the courts are crowded and the announcement is made to play to 9 points rather than 11 points, this will apply to the challenge court as well.
Pickleball Courts in Buffalo Grove:
Our good friend, Holly Goldsmith, informed me that they have brand new courts with lights and will soon have windscreens in Buffalo Grove (1000 N Buffalo Grove Road at the Corner of Buffalo Grove Rd and Deerfield Pkwy). I am so glad we had the only courts for a while so we got a chance to meet players and make so many friends from all over the suburbs. As each community gets their own courts, it will be good for pickleball but more difficult getting to know all the players.
Hope you are all enjoying this Memorial Day weekend. See you on the courts.
Bill G.
Picklers,
Monday’s play will be at Fabbrini. Prairie Stone is closed to pickleball on Memorial Day.
I have good news and bad news about the paddle order.
The good news is, the paddles that were ordered have come in and I will have them at the courts Monday.
The bad news is, the demo paddles that were to accompany them were sent to our Florida home. Our neighbor Fed Exed them to us Saturday, so I hope to have them by Monday.
The next order has to be in by Friday, May 31.
Maybe if those of you trying to decide if you are ordering a new paddle are real nice, some of the people getting their paddles Monday will let you look at theirs and, if you bribe them enough, they will let you touch it and/or play a game with it.
Those of you getting paddles, please make your checks out to Linda Graba.
Those of you that ordered a Compass, the cost is $70.00.
Ellen Massa,
Karie McClure
Karen Shrader
Mary Honaker
Karen McMillin
Jeanne Smith
Wayne Burdick
Those of you that ordered a Shard, the cost is $65.00.
Ron Sines yellow
Carl Massa yellow
Dave Hattas yellow
Pete Viohl yellow
Cheryl Olles Pink
Barb Kaufman Pink
Elvira Cridland Pink
Two ideas starting the first week in June:
Pickleball Picnic in the Park:
Each Wednesday beginning June 5, those of you wanting to socialize, bring your lunch and eat under the trees. We have even had players stating they would bring their portable grills for those of us wanting burgers, hot dogs, or some other meat, but they would want to know in advance if anyone was interested in grilling.
Challenge Court:
Starting Monday, June 3, we will be trying something new for those players that sometimes want very competitive games. There will be a Challenge Court that will rotate around the 6 courts on a daily basis, so it is not always on someone's favorite court. There is another paddle rack just for the challenge court. If this works, great, but as we all know, not all ideas are good ones. So if after a trial period it is a bust, we will drop it.
Here are the guidelines for the Challenge Court:
The court being assigned as the challenge court will change each play day. Check the challenge court paddle rack to see which court will be used on any given day.
Paddles must be queued up for play on the challenge court paddle rack. You must rack paddles with your partner.
While the challenge court is intended for intermediate to advanced play, ANY PLAYER may elect to play on the challenge court, and NO OTHER PLAYER may discourage or restrict them from doing so.
Players electing to play on a challenge court should understand that all players on this court are expecting a challenging game and will not be expected to “go easy” on anyone.
Teams may stay together on this court (rack 2 paddles together.)
No team or individual player plays more than 2 consecutive games on the challenge court.
When a game ends, the winning team stays on and stays together after their first win, and a new team comes in to challenge them. The losers come off the court.
If a team wins a second consecutive game, then both teams exit the court and 2 new teams come on.
When there is a single paddle in the queue, any player may rack his/hers to partner.
Players are encouraged not to play exclusively on the challenge court. The most advanced players are encouraged to mix in on other courts and to practice/demonstrate aspects of their soft game for the benefit of the less experienced players. Remember, we all started as less experienced players.
If the courts are crowded and the announcement is made to play to 9 points rather than 11 points, this will apply to the challenge court as well.
Pickleball Courts in Buffalo Grove:
Our good friend, Holly Goldsmith, informed me that they have brand new courts with lights and will soon have windscreens in Buffalo Grove (1000 N Buffalo Grove Road at the Corner of Buffalo Grove Rd and Deerfield Pkwy). I am so glad we had the only courts for a while so we got a chance to meet players and make so many friends from all over the suburbs. As each community gets their own courts, it will be good for pickleball but more difficult getting to know all the players.
Hope you are all enjoying this Memorial Day weekend. See you on the courts.
Bill G.
Posted May 13
Picklers,
The weather looks great for the next 7 days, so we are moving outdoors to Fabbrini Park as of Wednesday, May 15. This message was approved by Jill, and as many of us know, it is “all about Jill”.😇
If it is raining, check with Prairie Stone to see if they have any available indoor courts. If I am in town, I will post information on our Facebook page: Prairiestate Pickleball Club
The first week in June, we will add a challenge court as 1 court for those that want to play at a more competitive level. I will explain this more when we get it started.
Our 50+ schedule from now until late Oct. will be Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:00 - noon. These are the only times the courts are reserved.
All other times the courts are open play and we need to respect the court rules that are posted on the gate which state that if all 6 courts are occupied, and people are waiting, play to 11 and rotate off for the next group.
There is scheduled play for a group of advanced players (3.5 and above) run by Al Zamin on Tuesday mornings from 9:00-noon and Thursday evenings from 6:00 - 10:00 when the lights go out. Bring balls to share. Be sure to have some marking on them to I.D. them at the end of play.
Paula Lauer also runs a group on Saturday mornings from 9:00 - noon that is open to all. Bring balls to share. Be sure to have some marking on them to I.D. them at the end of play.
For more information about all the above play, go to Hoffmanestatespickleball.com to read about each group and previous communications.
You will need to get a 50+ membership card for $15.00 before June 1 to play with the 50+ group. These cards can be purchased or renewed at the Triphahn Center or Prairie Stone. There will be no monies collected this year for balls as we have money in the kitty from various companies to buy balls.
Bill G.
Picklers,
The weather looks great for the next 7 days, so we are moving outdoors to Fabbrini Park as of Wednesday, May 15. This message was approved by Jill, and as many of us know, it is “all about Jill”.😇
If it is raining, check with Prairie Stone to see if they have any available indoor courts. If I am in town, I will post information on our Facebook page: Prairiestate Pickleball Club
The first week in June, we will add a challenge court as 1 court for those that want to play at a more competitive level. I will explain this more when we get it started.
Our 50+ schedule from now until late Oct. will be Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:00 - noon. These are the only times the courts are reserved.
All other times the courts are open play and we need to respect the court rules that are posted on the gate which state that if all 6 courts are occupied, and people are waiting, play to 11 and rotate off for the next group.
There is scheduled play for a group of advanced players (3.5 and above) run by Al Zamin on Tuesday mornings from 9:00-noon and Thursday evenings from 6:00 - 10:00 when the lights go out. Bring balls to share. Be sure to have some marking on them to I.D. them at the end of play.
Paula Lauer also runs a group on Saturday mornings from 9:00 - noon that is open to all. Bring balls to share. Be sure to have some marking on them to I.D. them at the end of play.
For more information about all the above play, go to Hoffmanestatespickleball.com to read about each group and previous communications.
You will need to get a 50+ membership card for $15.00 before June 1 to play with the 50+ group. These cards can be purchased or renewed at the Triphahn Center or Prairie Stone. There will be no monies collected this year for balls as we have money in the kitty from various companies to buy balls.
Bill G.
Posted May 12
Picklers,
Because so many of us used our 15% discount code PSPC with Gamma, they have given me a code that I can use twice to get a 50% discount on their 3 new paddles through May. Their new paddles are Compass (new version of the Needle), Shard (RZR), and the Legend (Mirage). Go to Gammasports.com to see the paddle descriptions and prices. Several of our players picked up the new paddles when they were playing at the US Open in Naples. I will place an order at the end of this week for those of you that already know you want one of the new paddles and another order near the end of May for any of you that decide later you want one. Gamma is sending me one of each as a demo and, hopefully, they will be here in a week or so. I will write a check for all the paddles and you can pay me back when the order comes in.
Speaking of the US Open, Dottie Barron and Carol Kozola won Gold in their age bracket, Jo Ellen Southerland won silver in mixed and Lois Wisniewski and her partner won bronze in mixed doubles. In addition, Rick Johnson and Judy Beckwith played great and were within one win of a medal. Congratulations to all of you that participated in the Open.
The 6 County Senior Games registration forms have been mailed to those of you that participated in the past. The online registration is live at www.ilipra.org. Go to “Learn" and then to "Event Calendar for July".
You can also use the link http://bit.ly/2PUws6E
I highly advise you to use the online registration as it reduces the chance of errors in pairings. You will need your partner's name and age, and your partner must also register.
The issue with the net posts at Fabbrini has been fixed and the lights replaced at Prairie Stone. Yahoo and thanks to the maintenance department.
The weather is still too unpredictable to go outside full time, so we will remain indoors for the time being.
Bill G.
Picklers,
Because so many of us used our 15% discount code PSPC with Gamma, they have given me a code that I can use twice to get a 50% discount on their 3 new paddles through May. Their new paddles are Compass (new version of the Needle), Shard (RZR), and the Legend (Mirage). Go to Gammasports.com to see the paddle descriptions and prices. Several of our players picked up the new paddles when they were playing at the US Open in Naples. I will place an order at the end of this week for those of you that already know you want one of the new paddles and another order near the end of May for any of you that decide later you want one. Gamma is sending me one of each as a demo and, hopefully, they will be here in a week or so. I will write a check for all the paddles and you can pay me back when the order comes in.
Speaking of the US Open, Dottie Barron and Carol Kozola won Gold in their age bracket, Jo Ellen Southerland won silver in mixed and Lois Wisniewski and her partner won bronze in mixed doubles. In addition, Rick Johnson and Judy Beckwith played great and were within one win of a medal. Congratulations to all of you that participated in the Open.
The 6 County Senior Games registration forms have been mailed to those of you that participated in the past. The online registration is live at www.ilipra.org. Go to “Learn" and then to "Event Calendar for July".
You can also use the link http://bit.ly/2PUws6E
I highly advise you to use the online registration as it reduces the chance of errors in pairings. You will need your partner's name and age, and your partner must also register.
The issue with the net posts at Fabbrini has been fixed and the lights replaced at Prairie Stone. Yahoo and thanks to the maintenance department.
The weather is still too unpredictable to go outside full time, so we will remain indoors for the time being.
Bill G.
Club news and updates
Posted 4/28/2019
Picklers,
It is good to be back. We haven’t missed the weather, but it’s good to see old friends!
Some of you have been asking to get outdoor pickleball back on the schedule. In past years that we have had outdoor play, we have never been able to commit to full-time outdoors until June 1. Once we go out, we stay out. We have full access to Prairiestone until the end of May. As most of you know, the nets and windscreens are up at Fabbrini and some play is going on by small groups when weather permits. The issue with the net standards having heaved over the winter has been addressed to the park district, and we were told they would fix them.
Ladder league has ended on Mondays, so Monday is now another open play date. Thanks to Wayne (The Candy Man) for running another successful and fun league this past winter. Also, thanks to Wayne for doing a great job of organizing the open play and making it fun for new and old players alike.
For those of you wanting to improve your game, Prairie Stone is offering individual or group lessons as well as Pickleball 101, 102, and 103. All of the instruction is being done by Ken Kirkendall. To sign up, call Ken at 732-963-7004 or call Prairie Stone and ask for Chad 847-285-5400. I have had glowing testimonials from Ken’s students about his knowledge and teaching ability. For a full description of the classes at Prairie Stone, check our website, Hoffmanestatespickleball.com or our facebook page Prairie State Pickleball Club.
When we start outdoor play, you will need your 50+ card. If you only want to participate in 50+ pickleball and not in the 50+ club additional activities, the card will cost you $15.00 and can now be purchased at Prairie Stone as well as the Triphahn Center.
The good news on money is that thanks to so many of you using our 15% off at Gammasports.com code(PSPC) and our 5% off at Pickleballcentral.com code (CRHoffman), we have enough money to purchase outdoor balls without collecting $10.00 dollars from everyone as in the past. We, as a club, also get 5% back from both companies to purchase items for club use.
6 County Senior Games:
Dates; Women’s doubles, Tuesday, July 9
Men’s doubles, Thursday, July 11
Mixed doubles, Saturday, July 13
For those of you that have played in the past, the forms will be in the mail May 1. Online sign up should begin in the next week or so. Please include your age, email address, and phone number as well as your partner's name, age, and contact information. You must have a partner to sign up.
Summer rainout backup: Prairie Stone will be partially available most of the time if we have a rainout on our 50+ play this summer. Most days they will have at least 3 courts available as a backup. If it is raining, I will check if any courts are available and get a short email out ASAP to let you know. That way the front desk at Prairie Stone will not be inundated with phone calls, and all on the list will be advised.
Since we have so many new players and many of them are not on our email list, if you are in contact with any of the newbies, please forward this email to them and have them contact me so we can include them in any activites.
Because we are part of a park district and not a private club, we are somewhat limited by what we can offer, but here are some ideas that have been presented to me that we could do if there is an interest. Let me know what you think.
1. A BYOB picnic lunch under the trees on Wednesdays as a time to socialize with our pickleball friends.
2. A golf outing
3. Having one of the courts be a challenge court: two teams of two would start the day with the winning team staying and a new team challenging them. A team would be limited to 2 games in a row so if they win their second game, all 4 players come off and 4 more go out. We would have to set up a separate paddle rack for that court. All players involved with the challenge court would be encouraged to play on all courts.
U.S. Open Tournament in Naples:
We have several past and present club players in the U.S. Open next week. To follow their progress, go to pickleballtournaments.com
Bill G.
Picklers,
It is good to be back. We haven’t missed the weather, but it’s good to see old friends!
Some of you have been asking to get outdoor pickleball back on the schedule. In past years that we have had outdoor play, we have never been able to commit to full-time outdoors until June 1. Once we go out, we stay out. We have full access to Prairiestone until the end of May. As most of you know, the nets and windscreens are up at Fabbrini and some play is going on by small groups when weather permits. The issue with the net standards having heaved over the winter has been addressed to the park district, and we were told they would fix them.
Ladder league has ended on Mondays, so Monday is now another open play date. Thanks to Wayne (The Candy Man) for running another successful and fun league this past winter. Also, thanks to Wayne for doing a great job of organizing the open play and making it fun for new and old players alike.
For those of you wanting to improve your game, Prairie Stone is offering individual or group lessons as well as Pickleball 101, 102, and 103. All of the instruction is being done by Ken Kirkendall. To sign up, call Ken at 732-963-7004 or call Prairie Stone and ask for Chad 847-285-5400. I have had glowing testimonials from Ken’s students about his knowledge and teaching ability. For a full description of the classes at Prairie Stone, check our website, Hoffmanestatespickleball.com or our facebook page Prairie State Pickleball Club.
When we start outdoor play, you will need your 50+ card. If you only want to participate in 50+ pickleball and not in the 50+ club additional activities, the card will cost you $15.00 and can now be purchased at Prairie Stone as well as the Triphahn Center.
The good news on money is that thanks to so many of you using our 15% off at Gammasports.com code(PSPC) and our 5% off at Pickleballcentral.com code (CRHoffman), we have enough money to purchase outdoor balls without collecting $10.00 dollars from everyone as in the past. We, as a club, also get 5% back from both companies to purchase items for club use.
6 County Senior Games:
Dates; Women’s doubles, Tuesday, July 9
Men’s doubles, Thursday, July 11
Mixed doubles, Saturday, July 13
For those of you that have played in the past, the forms will be in the mail May 1. Online sign up should begin in the next week or so. Please include your age, email address, and phone number as well as your partner's name, age, and contact information. You must have a partner to sign up.
Summer rainout backup: Prairie Stone will be partially available most of the time if we have a rainout on our 50+ play this summer. Most days they will have at least 3 courts available as a backup. If it is raining, I will check if any courts are available and get a short email out ASAP to let you know. That way the front desk at Prairie Stone will not be inundated with phone calls, and all on the list will be advised.
Since we have so many new players and many of them are not on our email list, if you are in contact with any of the newbies, please forward this email to them and have them contact me so we can include them in any activites.
Because we are part of a park district and not a private club, we are somewhat limited by what we can offer, but here are some ideas that have been presented to me that we could do if there is an interest. Let me know what you think.
1. A BYOB picnic lunch under the trees on Wednesdays as a time to socialize with our pickleball friends.
2. A golf outing
3. Having one of the courts be a challenge court: two teams of two would start the day with the winning team staying and a new team challenging them. A team would be limited to 2 games in a row so if they win their second game, all 4 players come off and 4 more go out. We would have to set up a separate paddle rack for that court. All players involved with the challenge court would be encouraged to play on all courts.
U.S. Open Tournament in Naples:
We have several past and present club players in the U.S. Open next week. To follow their progress, go to pickleballtournaments.com
Bill G.
