Hailey
The Emporia Pickleball Club recently hosted the much-awaited Tri-City Pickleball Tournament, drawing players and fans from across three major Kansas cities. The event was filled with fast-paced matches, friendly competition, and community spirit.
Pickleball, a sport that combines tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, has been gaining huge popularity in recent years, and this tournament proved just how strong the love for the game has become in Emporia.
What is the Tri-City Pickleball Tournament?
The Tri-City Pickleball Tournament is an annual competition where clubs from three nearby cities—Emporia, Topeka, and Lawrence—come together for a weekend of matches. Players of all ages, from beginners to advanced athletes, get a chance to show their skills and compete for titles.
This year’s tournament included men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles matches. There were more than 120 registered participants, making it one of the biggest pickleball events in the region.
Growing Popularity of Pickleball
Pickleball has become one of the fastest-growing sports in America. Known for being easy to learn and fun to play, it attracts young people, working professionals, and retirees alike. The sport’s simple rules, smaller court size, and fast play style make it accessible for everyone.
In Emporia, the Pickleball Club has grown rapidly in membership over the past five years. Many local schools and community centers have also added pickleball courts, further boosting its popularity.
Tournament Highlights
This year’s tournament brought some thrilling matches and memorable moments.
- The men’s doubles final featured a close battle between Emporia and Lawrence players, with Emporia winning the final set 11-9.
- The women’s doubles saw Topeka take home the gold after a series of powerful rallies.
- The mixed doubles division showcased strong teamwork, with a couple from Emporia winning the championship title.
The event also featured junior matches, giving younger players a chance to compete and learn from experienced athletes.
Tournament Results
| Category | Winning City | Runners-Up | Final Score (Set) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Men’s Doubles | Emporia | Lawrence | 11-9 |
| Women’s Doubles | Topeka | Emporia | 11-7 |
| Mixed Doubles | Emporia | Topeka | 11-8 |
| Junior Division | Lawrence | Emporia | 11-6 |
Community Spirit and Support
The Emporia community played a big role in making the tournament successful. Local businesses sponsored the event, and dozens of volunteers helped with scorekeeping, refreshments, and court management.
The tournament not only boosted sports enthusiasm but also supported small businesses through increased tourism.
Spectators filled the stands, cheering loudly for their favorite teams. Many families also joined in, making it a family-friendly sports festival for everyone in the city.
Future of Pickleball in Emporia
With the success of this year’s Tri-City Tournament, the Emporia Pickleball Club is planning to expand its facilities. The city has already approved the construction of two new outdoor courts, expected to be ready by next summer.
The club also plans to introduce youth training programs, giving schoolchildren the opportunity to take up pickleball at a younger age. This ensures that the sport will continue to grow in the future.
The Emporia Pickleball Club’s Tri-City Tournament was more than just a sports competition—it was a celebration of teamwork, community, and passion for the game. With growing membership, youth participation, and city support, pickleball in Emporia is heading toward a bright future.
The tournament not only crowned champions but also strengthened bonds between neighboring cities. For Emporia, this event was proof that pickleball is more than a game—it’s a movement bringing people together.