Recently Palmetto Dunes ran its first major tournament. This would not have been possible without a slew of pickleball volunteers.
palmetto dunes
I have worked very hard over the last couple of years to create an environment in which tennis and pickleball can flourish at Palmetto Dunes. Recently we were named Pickleball Resort of the Year by the Racquet Sports Industry. This made me very happy. We have a great staff and an exceptional volunteer network. Both of these were key to our recent tournament.
pickleball referees
I have written before about the importance of pickleball referees. Being a referee can be a tough gig. I 
recently started watching a march without a referee. There were more foot faults than I cared to count. I am often surprised to hear players say that a foot fault or serving illegally doesn’t make a big difference. But when I hear such things I immediately ask, “If a ball lands outside the court is it in or out?” Obviously, the answer is out. Well, a foot fault is just like hitting a ball out. It is a fault and as such impacts the score and the game.
It is difficult for a player to call a foot fault on the other team. In the heat of battle, it is very difficult to see and make that call. That is why we need more referees. If you have considered trying to be a referee, please take a shot at it. I promise you learning to referee will even improve your game!
Pickleball volunteers
But if you really have difficulty learning to referee…there are many other ways you can volunteer. You can work at the tournament registration desk. Assist at the tournament desk. Help direct cars in the parking lot. Perhaps you love pickleball but don’t want to play in a tournament. That is okay. We need your help!
And to all the people that make these events possible, a huge thank you! We can’t continue to grow the sport without volunteers like you.
