Pickleball 2025: Combines, Cruises, and Celebrity Chats!: Sleeve's News Wrap Up

[00:00:00] Foreign welcome to the Sleeve Senior Pickleball Report. I'm your host Mike Sleeves Leva and today we're diving into the latest and greatest in the world of pickleball as we wrap up the exciting stories from the first few months of 2025. So grab your paddles and let's get into it. [00:00:22] First up, big news for aspiring pickleball stars. The National Pickleball League is holding its official combines and tryouts in early March in Phoenix and Houston. This is a fantastic opportunity for players looking to showcase their skills on a bigger stage. Check out the story in an exciting development for the growing pickleball community, the highly anticipated Pickleball Combines and National Pickleball League NPL Draft are set to take place next month. This event will showcase over 50 talented players from across the country, providing them with a unique opportunity to demonstrate their skills in front of coaches and team scouts. Participants will engage in a series of competitive drills and matches highlighting their athleticism and strategic gameplay. As pickleball continues to gain popularity, this draft marks a pivotal moment for both aspiring professionals and the expansion of of the sport. Fans are encouraged to attend and support their favorite players as they vie for a spot in the league. [00:01:28] Stay tuned for more updates from the world of pickleball on our website sleeves spr.com and remember, let's Pickle. [00:01:43] Wow. Doesn't that look exciting? Just imagine the talent we're going to see in these combines. Want to know more about what to expect? Be sure to check out the details at the NPL website. [00:01:55] Attention all pickleball lovers and cruise connoisseurs. Join me on an unforgettable Royal Caribbean Cruise powered by Selkirk, taking us to the beautiful Ensenada, Mexico. Leaving from Los Angeles, join us for an exciting pickleball cruise to Ensenada where enthusiasts of all skill levels can connect, compete and relax on the open seas. Set sail for a unique vacation experience that combines the thrill of pickleball with breathtaking ocean views. [00:02:26] Participants will enjoy daily matches, clinics with expert coaches and plenty of time to unwind and explore. Whether you're looking to sharpen your skills or simply enjoy a fun filled getaway with fellow pickleball lovers, this cruise offers something for everyone. Don't miss your chance to make unforgettable memories while playing the game you love or on a beautiful coastal adventure. For more details, visit the Pickleball International website. The link is on the screen and in the description let's Pickle I can't wait to hit the course on the ship and meet some fellow pickleball enthusiasts. It's the ultimate getaway for both relaxation and pickleball fun on the high seas. For more details, check out the Pickleball International website. [00:03:14] Now let's talk about a recent development that has sparked some discussions in the pickleball community, the Gilbert Pickleball Tax. This proposed tax has drawn both supporters and critics, and it's crucial for all of us to stay informed on how it may affect our beloved sport. Let's take a look at a report that breaks it down a bit more GoWater Institute steps up a Showdown over Gilbert's Pickleball Tax Gilbert hello picklers. The Goldwater Institute has launched a lawsuit challenging a new tax hike imposed by the Gilbert Town Council aimed at funding amenities such as new pickleball courts. [00:03:56] Approved by officials in October 2024, the tax increases include a raise in the sales tax on all goods and services and hikes in bed taxes for hotels and short term rentals. Local residents are voicing their frustrations, stating that the tax burden will make it even more difficult to make ends meet. Critics argue that the legality of the tax hike is questionable as the Arizona Constitution forbids new taxes on services. As the pickleball community watches closely, this case highlights the ongoing struggle between local governance and citizen rights in Arizona. Stay tuned for updates on this pivotal showdown. [00:04:33] Interesting stuff. The interplay of taxes and sports can get complicated, but it's important we stay engaged in the conversation. And finally, a little teaser for our upcoming episode of People of Pickleball. Get ready for a special chat with none other than Joseph R. Ganassili, who is best known for his role as Vito Spatafor on the Sopranos. Yes, you heard that right. He's a pickleball fanatic. We'll dive into his love for the game and maybe hear a few behind the scenes stories from the iconic show. [00:05:07] You won't want to miss it. Stay tuned. That wraps up today's episode of the Sleeves Senior Pickleball Report. Thank you all for tuning in and keeping up with the latest in pickleball. Remember to subscribe and we'll see you next time. Until then, keep those paddles up and the good vibes rolling. And don't forget, let's pickle.