Pinellas Couple Becomes Globally Ranked Pickleball Pros

Don't give up on your dreams! I bet this Pinellas couple didn't expect to be one of the top ranked pickleball players in the world. You never know what could happen. Megan Fudge and Ryler DeHeart have turned their pro tennis dreams into a pickleball reality. The couple met at a bar in college and then sparks quickly began to fly on the court.

Megan was playing in Germany while Ryler was competing against big names like Rafael Nadal at the U.S. Open. But because of injuries, Ryler had to swap his tennis racket for a pickleball paddle. They thought to themselves "we're too young for this sport," but quickly changed their minds during the pandemic. At a time when everyone was desperate for some safe, physical activity, the couple turned to pickleball. They started by drawing a court in chalk on their driveway and got to playing. Next thing they know, they are globally ranked pickleball pros. According to ABC Action News, Megan is ranked 8th in the world pickleball rankings, and Ryler is 20th.

The couple is even taking their talents on the road. Like many others, they've joined the van life, or RV life in this case. The couple recently bought and are living out of a RV with their two kids while they live the pickleball dream on the Association of Pickleball Professionals Tour.

Pickleball is becoming a huge sensation in Tampa Bay. There's even a massive sports complex opening soon in St. Petersburg. I think it's a great sport that can get anyone outside and active.

[Source: ABC Action News]

The fastest-growing sport in America has made its mark on Southwest Florida. There are now a few exciting new places to play Pickleball in the Tampa region. Perhaps you have noticed your local athletic center turning part of their basketball gym into a Pickleball court. Even Lebron James is onboard, buying into a major league team in late 2022.

Though the sport has been around since 1965, it’s more recently gained major popularity here in Tampa. There are local Facebook groups that share ideas and enthusiasm for the sport. There is also a community named, The Tampa Pickleball Crew that describes themselves as, "a socializing, community, and friendly competition come together through pickleball." This crew is also pioneering an effort to open a new indoor facility in Ybor City this spring. Whether you are looking to learn the game, play competitively or swing a paddle while sipping a beer, Massachusetts now has options to meet your Pickleball curiosity.

Known for being a recreational sport landmark (where numerous MLB baseball players trained), there are also six pickleball courts at Cuscaden Park. Each are dedicated to Pickleball with permanent lines and nets. They are free to use and open from sunrise to sunset.

Hillsborough Community College (HCC) has its own tennis and pickleball facility. Though a membership is required to play, there are eight courts available and classes you can register for.

Home to the Northlakes Recreation Center, there are eight outdoor courts here in addition to six tennis courts and two racquet ball courts. There’s something for everyone here, with walking trails and lacrosse fields on the grounds. Bring the whole family!

Reservations are available at 25-acre park located just north of the University of Tampa and across the Hillsborough River. There are two outdoor courts in close proximity to public restrooms and water.

The Tampa Bay Times has reported Ybor City’s Gas Worx will open the indoor pickleball courts this spring. It is in part thanks to the Tampa Pickleball Crew, who are leading the efforts. The 28,000-square-foot club will house seven courts. The plan allows for there to be both open times and court reservation options that can be secured via an app.

These four outdoor hard courts are dedicated to Pickleball. There is a full gym schedule dedicated to the game, four days a week. In close proximately to the lake and pool, this facility is open to the public and does not require a membership fee.

Described as an active community, this Oldsmar club has 12 outdoor courts available for Pickleball. The game is offered to members of all ages. There are tournaments, clinics, and social events held throughout the year.

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