On this episode of the 20x44 Dink Podcast we're diving into a hot-button issue that has once again stirred the pickleball community: paddle drama. This time, the spotlight is on the Joola Gen 3 paddles, a popular choice among both amateur and professional players.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Introduction to Paddle Drama
   • Overview of the recurring paddle controversies in pickleball.
   • Introduction to the Joola Gen 3 paddles and their popularity.
2. The Rise of Joola Gen 3 Paddles
   • The quick adoption of these paddles by players of all levels.
   • Discussion on why these paddles became a favorite.
3. The Controversy Unfolds
   • The unexpected removal of the Joola Gen 3 paddles from the USA Pickleball approved list during the PPA Atlanta event.
   • The administrative error cited as the reason for the removal.
   • Observations from Brisbane, Australia, during the PPA and MLP Australia events.
4. Community Reaction and Adaptation
   • The impressive response from players, including 5.0+ players, who switched back to Gen 2 paddles out of respect for fair play.
   • The unique sportsmanship and respect shown by the community.
5. Future of Paddle Approvals
   • The introduction of PPA’s own governing body, UPAA, and its implications.
   • Speculation on whether paddles will need dual approval from USA Pickleball and UPAA in the future.
   • The current status of the Gen 3 paddles and other paddles initially removed.
6. What’s Next?
   • Upcoming discussions and episodes focused on this evolving topic.
   • Encouragement for listeners to stay tuned for more updates.

Final Thoughts

We appreciate you tuning in to this episode of the 20x44 Life Dink Podcast. The paddle drama is a hot topic, and we’ll continue to keep you updated as new developments unfold. Until next time, let’s rally and embrace the 20x44 life!

Connect with Us:

• Subscribe to 20x44 Life: A Pickleball Podcast on your favorite podcast platform
• Follow us on Instagram and Twitter @20x44Life for the latest pickleball news and updates
• Visit our website at www.20x44.net for paddles and more

In this episode of 20x44 Life, we welcome Jim Bronson, a seasoned player who transitioned from racquetball to pickleball. Jim shares his journey, challenges, and the growth of the pickleball community in Toledo. Tune in for insights on the National Pickleball League (NPL), tips for new players, and the evolution of pickleball tournaments.

Highlights:

• Introduction to Jim Bronson and his background in racquetball.
• Transition to pickleball and the differences between the two sports.
• Growth of the pickleball community in Toledo, Ohio.
• Jim's journey through the NPL Combine and team draft.
• Insights into the team dynamics and structure of the NPL.
• Discussion about the U.S. Open Pickleball Championships and the unique split age format.
• Technical talk about pickleball paddles and equipment preferences.
• Jim's experience with the 20x44 EL paddle and upcoming product launches.

Connect with Us:

• Subscribe to 20x44 Life: A Pickleball Podcast on your favorite podcast platform
• Follow us on Instagram and Twitter @20x44Life for the latest pickleball news and updates
• Visit our website at www.20x44.net for paddles and more

In this week's 20x44 Dink we explore a new chapter in pickleball rating systems, the UTR-P. This was recently announced by the Association of Pickleball Players (APP) and in this episode Brandon contrasts it with the DUPR system, and highlights how these developments could shape the future of pickleball.

Read more about the UTR-P on our blog: https://www.20x44.net/post/revolutionizing-pickleball-understanding-utr-p-the-new-universal-rating-system

Connect with Us:

• Subscribe to 20x44 Life: A Pickleball Podcast on your favorite podcast platform
• Follow us on Instagram and Twitter @20x44Life for the latest pickleball news and updates
• Visit our website at www.20x44.net for paddles and more