As we approach July and the busy summer months, we would like to speak to what seems to be a shift this year in an increase in the number of players on the Advanced (3.5/4.0+) side, Courts 1-6.   We want to clarify that courts 7-14 are the Intermediate/Beginner side, not solely Beginner courts as we sometimes have heard them called.  We wonder if this misidentification of courts 7-14 has contributed to this year’s shift in numbers. 

Yes, a few courts from 7-14 were used at the start of the season to welcome Beginners and to help get them acclimated to pickleball in Dennis.  However, in past years, and this year, very competitive Intermediate games are played on those courts – as they should be. 

We thought it would be helpful to share Sherry Scheer’s pickleball rating guidelines (below), so that you can accurately assess your game.  The skills listed at each level should be consistently (not just occasionally) achieved.

Beginner (1.0-2.0) :  A beginner is classified as a player who is new to the game or has only played a handful of times. 

Beginner + (2.5):  Knows basic rules such as “two bounce” and scoring. Has some basic stroke skills. Attempts to dink but not always effective, gets some serves and returns in, tries to volley and attempts groundstrokes. Understands how to grip the paddle. 

Intermediate (3.0):  Regularly gets serves “in” to mid-court or deeper. Starting to hit dinks lower over the net. Can hit 5/10 dinks, volleys, returns, serves, groundstrokes. This player will drive and lob their third shot, understands the need to develop this shot in their game but still won’t attempt it. Moves to the kitchen line after returning, stays back after serving. Demonstrates general ball control with varying degrees of success and is attempting to develop more softness in their shots.

Intermediate + (3.5):  Demonstrates control and basic consistency in shots, can hit 6/10 dinks, volleys, returns, serves, third shots and groundstrokes. Player is attempting to hit drop shots to get to the kitchen line. Can apply fast and slow techniques during points. Attempts to dink during a rally. Places serves and returns deep in the box, approaches non-volley zone line quickly. Has a moderate number of unforced errors per game.

Advanced (4.0):  Demonstrates control and basic consistency in shots, can hit 8/10 dinks, volleys, returns, serves, third shots and groundstrokes. Uses logic and strategy while playing points. Applies fast and slow shot selection at the proper times more often than not. Mixes drives and drop shot techniques to obtain the kitchen line. Has fewer number of unforced errors per game.

Advanced + (4.5):  Can regularly convert a hard shot to a soft shot. Exhibits patience in play and shows a noticeable increase in skills, a higher level of strategy, quickness of hands, movement, placement of shots, anticipation of play, sustained volleying skills, and places put-aways with consistency. Makes very few unforced errors.

It’s also helpful to calibrate your play against others.  As a frame of reference, the Dennis Women’s League has one Advanced team (3.5+, who are appropriate to play on courts 1-6) and two Intermediate teams (3.0, an appropriate level for courts 7-14).  Naturally, as players’ skills advance to the 3.5 level, they have the flexibility to play on both sides.

Players are always welcome to choose for themselves the courts where they play.  All players benefit from playing games which are competitive and enjoyable for their skill level regardless of which court they are standing on.  In making your decision, we hope that folks in the 3.0-3.5 skill level realize that courts 7-14 are Intermediate courts and appropriate for their play.  Being able to access levels of play which suit players’ skills is what we hope Dennis pickleball is all about.  And having fun, of course!!!

--

 Just a reminder that beginning July 1st and running until September 1st, monitored play will run 8:00-11:00.  Tuesday and Thursday Evening play hours remain the same - 5:00-7:00. 

 Shop now for summer vacation at the Dennis Pickleball Online Store!

Shop Dennis Pickleball

See Details

 Interested in improving your game this summer?  Sherry Scheer has limited availability in the following clinics:

6/24 - Baseline strokes (2 spots left) 1:00-2:30
7/10   3 + a Coach for low intermediate level players 3.0+ (4 spots left) 2:00-3:30
7/17  Roll Volleys- 4th shots 1:00-2:30
7/22 -25   4 Day Adult Mini Camp -2:00-3:30
(4 spots left)

To register, go to Sherry’s website Scheerforce

 Show off your patriotic pride with our USA collection, exclusively available in our Online Store 

Shop now at  - Dennis Pickleball Online Shop 

 We are resending the following information, as a reminder, about dates which we have scheduled coaches for members who are Beginners and as information for any Beginner members who may have registered subsequent to the first posting. 

Happily, we've been able to schedule in 4 dates to help Beginners become familiar with the game of pickleball and also meet some other new players.  PLEASE READ THROUGH ALL THE INFORMATION.  ALL THE WAY TO THE END!REMINDER:  These sessions are very informal and do not include the same level of instruction that Sherry Scheer's FABULOUS clinics offer. We strongly encourage players OF ALL LEVELS to check out Sherry's clinic offerings at   https://www.scheerforce.com/  or find the link on our website Clinics (dennispickleball.org) which is listed under MORE.
Below is information about the dates and times for our informal "coaching" sessions.
DATES:
MAY 28 and 30  (Tues. and Thurs.)
JUNE 4 and 6     (Tues. and Thurs.)
TIMES:  11:00-12:00
Naturally, Beginners who are registered members are welcome to play during any of our scheduled play times.  However, the above dates and times will have coaches available to help guide Beginner players and will provide the opportunity for other Beginning players to connect with each other!  As Charlene likes to say, "It's a WIN WIN!!! "
PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, email  17pickleball@gmail.com
Thank You!

There is still some availability left in Sherry Scheer's clinics held at Wixon courts.  

Get a jump start on your game for the summer!

To register go to Scheerforce

June 16/17 2 Day Mini Camp - 4 slots left

6/24 - Baseline drives - 5 slots left

6/26 & 6/27 2 Day Adult Mini Camp for Intermediate players 3.5+ 4 spots left,

7/8 Coached Play 4 spots left.  

To register go to Scheerforce

 Below is information sent out previously to the membership. We are resending it for those members who may have registered since this message was sent.

First, here is new information, in addition to below, any items left behind will be placed in a LOST and FOUND plastic box with a snap lid and stored next to the shed. Many times players return to the courts after play has ended looking to retrieve their items to find they have been locked in the shed. Also, there are items that remain unclaimed for many months - if not the year - which have become moldy and smelly in the shed. As with any public place, we are technically not responsible for items left behind, but will try this accessible LOST and FOUND box this year. A TIP would be to put your phone number on your paddle, especially, so that we can give you a call to tell you that your paddle is in the LOST and FOUND box. Presently, there are 4 paddles that have been in the shed for about a year. Please make every effort to check that you have all of your items when you leave the courts. When the box becomes full, items will be donated or discarded depending on their condition.  THANK YOU! BELOW IS THE INFORMATION SENT PREVIOUSLY: 

Below is information about the dates and times for our outdoor monitored season for registered members and includes reminders about how the monitors run the play.

Season runs from May 20-September 29.

May and June hours: 9:00-12:00, 7 days a week.

July and August hours: 8:00-11:00, 7 days a week.

September hours: 9:00-12:00, 7 days a week.

Evening monitored play: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:00-7:00.

2024 season TAGS will be available (THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE SEASON) AT THE COURTS during all monitored play times which are LISTED ABOVE.  Please show your tag to the monitor each day you play. Only players who have tags are allowed to play during the time for registered play. 

As in all past seasons, please remember to abide by all the court rules and show respect to the monitors who run play.

Remember that monitors sign players up for the skill level they request but follow the sequence of boxes on the whiteboard for which players have come up to put their names regardless of the skill level.  All players follow the order of the boxes on the whiteboard.

Following the sequence of sign ups means that a group of four who signed up AFTER an incomplete box of players (regardless of skill level) will need to wait until the box ahead of them is filled and has gone out to play before the group of four goes out. 

As soon as each game is over, each group exits the courts and can then ask the monitor to sign them up again.

Per the town, NOTHING is to be hung on the fences and NOTHING is allowed to be placed on the courts.

Per the town, when parking along Old Chatham Road, please make sure your wheels are NOT over the white line onto the road. PARKING IN THE PARKING LOT OF THE WIXON SCHOOL IS ALLOWED. 

Thank you all, in advance, for your kindness, respect, and cooperation needed for monitors and players to continue to enjoy another official pickleball summer season at the Wixon courts!

Please send any communication to 17pick...@gmail.comLooking forward to another great season at Wixon Courts! 

This week on a sunny Monday morning, new players were welcomed to Wixon with a special event hosted by Friends of Dennis Pickleball.  Over 50 newcomers learned about the history of Wixon, went over some of the courts rules, and then had a blast playing on the courts!

Special thank you to Jane Leclaire and Jackie Walker for organizing and leading the event, and to Joan Ryan and all the volunteers who provided a magnificent spread of food and coffee for all to enjoy!

Opening day is Monday May 20!

 Opening Day for Registered Members is Monday - May 20th, starting at 9:00.

***TAGS will be given out at a table set up near the shed.

Please be patient - this is NOT a CLICK AND PRINT process! :)

You'll interact with volunteer folks - isn't that nice?

ON THE BACK OF YOUR TAG, PLEASE PRINT YOUR PHONE NUMBER AND AN EMERGENCY PHONE NUMBER. THANK YOU!

***PARKING UPDATE:  NEW sign posted by the TOWN on the ACCESS ROAD running down the Beginner/Intermediate side by the picnic benches clearly states:

NO PARKING EITHER SIDE ON OR OFF ROAD SURFACE.

So, anyone who parks there will be directed to move their vehicle.

PARKING IS AVAILBLE IN THE WIXON SCHOOL PARKING LOT.

***WEBSITE:  Dennis Pickleball Links to a lot of information including clinics and skill level descriptions.

***COMMUNICATION:  Please use 17pickleball@gmail.com

***PLEASE REMEMBER THAT THE HOURS FOR OUR REGISTERED MEMBERS TO PLAY ARE FOR THOSE REGISTERED MEMBERS WHO HAVE PAID FOR ACCESS TO THE COURTS AT OUR TIMES.

SO, ANY NONMEMBERS WHO MAY BE PLAYING BEFORE OUR DEDICATED AND PAID FOR PLAY TIME BEGINS MUST EXIT THE COURTS ONCE OUR TIME BEGINS - WHETHER OR NOT THE GAME IS OVER.

For the rest of the entire year and all the hours outside of member play, ANYONE can use the courts. So, it's reasonable and respectful that we ask NONMEMBERS to willingly cooperate with our paid for and registered play times. THANK YOU!

Unlike today's weather, next week looks great for pickleball play!  See you on the courts!  WOOOO HOOOO!

 Happily, we've been able to schedule in 4 dates to help Beginners become familiar with the game of pickleball and also meet some other new players.  PLEASE READ THROUGH ALL THE INFORMATION.  ALL THE WAY TO THE END!

REMINDER:  These sessions are very informal and do not include the same level of instruction that Sherry Scheer's FABULOUS clinics offer. We strongly encourage players OF ALL LEVELS to check out Sherry's clinic offerings at   https://www.scheerforce.com/  or find the link on our website Clinics (dennispickleball.org) which is listed under MORE.

Below is information about the dates and times for our informal "coaching" sessions.

DATES:

MAY 28 and 30  (Tues. and Thurs.)

JUNE 4 and 6     (Tues. and Thurs.)

TIMES:  11:00-12:00

Naturally, Beginners who are registered members are welcome to play during any of our scheduled play times.  However, the above dates and times will have coaches available to help guide Beginner players and will provide the opportunity for other Beginning players to connect with each other!  As Charlene likes to say, "It's a WIN WIN!!! "

PLEASE, PLEASE, PLEASE, email Charlene to let her know which date(s) you plan on attending.  This will really help Charlene get things organized and prepared.  Please send any communication to 17pickleball@gmail.com

Thank You!

 New clinics have been added:  

July 8th  3 + a Coach:  Intermediate players 3.5+. 1.5 hours.  Court Coaching through game play.  Immediate feedback, analysis and strategic instruction.  Coaches will provide you with drills to practice at home.

July 10   3 + a Coach -Low Intermediate level 3.0+ players.  Court coaching through game play.  One coach per 3 players.  Immediate feedback, analysis and strategic instruction.  Some drilling if necessary.  Coaches will provide you with drills to practice at home.

Register at Scheer Force

 Looking forward to another great season at Wixon Courts!

PLEASE READ THROUGH THESE ITEMS.

Below is information about the dates and times for our outdoor monitored season for registered members and includes reminders about how the monitors run the play.

Season runs from May 20-September 29.

May and June hours: 9:00-12:00, 7 days a week.

July and August hours: 8:00-11:00, 7 days a week.

September hours: 9:00-12:00, 7 days a week.

Evening monitored play: Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5:00-7:00.

2024 season TAGS will be available (THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE SEASON) AT THE COURTS during all monitored play times which are LISTED ABOVE.  Please show your tag to the monitor each day you play. Only players who have tags are allowed to play during the time for registered play. 

As in all past seasons, please remember to abide by all the court rules and show respect to the monitors who run play.

Remember that monitors sign players up for the skill level they request but follow the sequence of boxes on the whiteboard for which players have come up to put their names regardless of the skill level.  All players follow the order of the boxes on the whiteboard.

Following the sequence of sign ups means that a group of four who signed up AFTER an incomplete box of players (regardless of skill level) will need to wait until the box ahead of them is filled and has gone out to play before the group of four goes out. 

As soon as each game is over, each group exits the courts and can then ask the monitor to sign them up again.

Per the town, NOTHING is to be hung on the fences and NOTHING is allowed to be placed on the courts.

Per the town, when parking along Old Chatham Road, please make sure your wheels are NOT over the white line onto the road. PARKING IN THE PARKING LOT OF THE WIXON SCHOOL IS ALLOWED. 

Thank you all, in advance, for your kindness, respect, and cooperation needed for monitors and players to continue to enjoy another official pickleball summer season at the Wixon courts!

Please send any communication to 17pickleball@gmail.com

 Calling All Players New to Dennis Pickleball!

Friends of Dennis Pickleball (FODP) want to welcome NEW REGISTERED MEMBERS to Dennis pickleball!
On Monday, MAY 13th, at 9:00, we invite you to come to the Wixon courts to introduce you to how the summer season runs.

NOTE:  This is NOT opening day.  Official opening day is MAY 20th.

The  WELCOME TO WIXON EVENT, on May 13th, is a great opportunity to meet other new folks, hear about our great pickleball community, enjoy yummy refreshments, AND maybe win a raffle!

We will meet on the side where all the picnic benches are.

You will hear a short presentation about: 

1.  the history and the culture of pickleball in Dennis 

2.  the way the town and our volunteer group (FODP) work together

3.  the way the season/courts run during the summer season

We will be happy to answer questions at that time, as well!

After all of THAT fun, THERE WILL BE A RAFFLE!!! Can you believe it??

THERE WILL BE A WONDERFUL SPREAD OF REFRESHMENTS, TOO, HOSTED BY OUR FABULOUS SOCIAL COMMITTEE.

You are more than welcome to play, also!

We look forward to meeting folks who are new to Dennis pickleball! Hope to see you there on the 13th!

Please send any communication to 17pickleball@gmail.com

1.  End of Year Survey:  The FODP Board of Directors reviewed the feedback from the End of the Year Survey which offers the membership the opportunity to present their input, thoughts and suggestions.  The Board takes the survey results seriously and does its best to discuss and determine those items that are foremost on the minds of the membership.  The Board shares information with the town of Dennis to then plan for the next season and to implement items that will serve to improve and strengthen the outdoor pickleball program which runs from May through October (exact dates TBD before the start of the 2023 season).  

The Board would like to take this opportunity to THANK those from the FODP membership who took the time to complete the survey where they expressed their thoughts and suggestions.

2.  When time draws nearer to the 2023 outdoor season, we will communicate any decisions and plans regarding the season.

3.  Indoor play at Ezra Baker School was discussed in regard to the numbers of players attending which presently range from single digits to numbers in the 20s.

4.  We are currently monitoring the timeline for access to the Wixon School for indoor play.  We will let membership know when more is decided on our ability to use Wixon School.

5.  There will be no FODP meeting in December due to the holiday season.

We wish everyone a very healthy and happy holiday season!

Please View the  results from the Dennis Pickleball annual survey.   Thanks to all participants.

See Survey  Results

 Our first night of indoor play was November 1, and all went smoothly.  About 25 players showed up, so the wait times weren't too bad.  The monitors and early-arriving players got the nets set up and gym ready by 5:55 so that play could start at 6.  (Thanks to those players who helped out.)  And the gym was put back to order before 9.

Please note that only water is allowed in the gym - no food, sports drinks, coffee,  sodas, etc.  Please keep your water bottles away from the playing courts.

That's all for now, I think.  Enjoy!

Dennis Pickleball group email announcement from Board president : Charlene O'Brien on 10/28/22:

 As of November 1, I will remain as a member of the PB BOD, but I am passing the baton for leadership of the Friends of Dennis PB BOD and organization to Marta Cahill who is a current BOD member and is both eager and very capable of assuming this role. Prior to moving to Dennis, a couple of years ago Marta has supervised the Team Sports Programing in Arlington, Virginia, and Managed the Arlington Travel Soccer Club among her many volunteer activities. She is currently working with the town to get our indoor play at Baker School organized with the help of Jean Hetherington.

It has been a pleasure to have served as the President of the FODPB organization. The current BOD members (Gary Nowitz, Mary Piltch, Jackie Walker, Jane LeClaire, Bob Guilbert, Aaron Brochu, and Paul Campbell) are extremely capable and very dedicated group of individuals who have worked very hard to serve our membership. We have created a committee structure of roles and responsibilities which is attached for you to see. Along with the BOD there are many other members who volunteer such as the monitors, people who help with court maintenance, socials, selling tee shirts, etc. who have contributed greatly. It takes a lot of work to keep this organization running and many people have and continue to volunteer to help.

I want to thank everyone for their support and I’m sure this will continue as Marta takes over because we all want the Wixon courts to be known as a friendly place where people are welcome, respected and encouraged to learn to play and enjoy the game of pickleball.

 See you on the courts.

See New Organizational Chart!

• Reviewed numbers of members responding to End of the Year Survey so far.
• Membership will receive survey results when compiled.
• Reviewed progress of plans for upcoming indoor session at Ezra Baker School-regisration is full.
• Reviewed and agreed upon list of accomlishments for the 2022 season

 Congratulations to Sherry Scheer on winning gold in 55+ 4.5 to secure a Golden Ticket for 2023 Nationals next year! 

  Some familiar faces placed this weekend in the Nutmeg Fall Pickleball Classic - congratulations everyone! 

•  Bob LeClair and Frank Sakata Silver, 3.5, 65+ Men’s Doubles 
•  Jack Callahan takes bronze in both Men’s and Mixed Doubles 4.0 55+ (not pictured)
•   David Delcegno takes bronze in Men’s Doubles 4.0 59+ 

See Photos

 Registration for winter indoor pickleball is now open for Dennis residents.  Non-residents can register beginning October 17 (keep this email; there will be no reminder).  Play will be 6-8:45 pm Monday through Friday at Ezra Baker Elementary School, 810 Rt. 28, West Dennis.  The first session will run from November 1 - January 20.  The cost is $40 for Dennis residents, $60 for non-residents.  There are only three courts at Baker, so the registration cap will be fairly low.  There will be a waiting list and we expect to add people from the waiting list once we have a sense of the turnout.

Please follow the instructions attached to register for indoor winter pickleball.

Outdoor morning play will continue at Wixon through the winter.  We expect a lot of people to play outdoors whenever the weather is reasonable.  You can also play outdoors in the evenings under the lights at John Kelley Park (using the tennis court nets).

For help with registration, please contact Joanne Iachetta at 508-760-6159 or jiachetta@town.dennis.ma.us.   Thank you.

See Instructions:

 For the first time since 2019, Dennis will offer monitored indoor pickleball play this winter.  FODP has received authority to offer pickleball from 6-8:45 pm Monday through Friday at Ezra Baker Elementary School.  The first session will run from November 1 - January 20.  A second session running from January 23 - March 31 will hopefully play in the mornings at Wixon school, after the school moves to the new location on Station Avenue (date TBD).

Registration for the first session will open on October 11 for Dennis residents, and one week later for non-residents.  Cost is $40 for Dennis residents, $60 for non-residents.  There are only three courts at Baker, so the cap on participants will be fairly low.  There will be a waiting list and we expect to add people from the waiting list once we have a sense of the turnout.  Please look for an email on October 11 announcing that registration is open.  Registration is NOT open now - this email is just to let you know  what is being planned.

Outdoor morning play will continue at Wixon through the winter, as in the past two winters, without monitors.  We expect a lot of people to play outdoors whenever the weather is adequate (I almost typed “good” but we know our standards are lower than that).  You can also play outdoors in the evenings under the lights at John Kelley Park (using the tennis court nets).

On Friday September 30, 2022 the Wixon School had a field day and when thy played the National Anthem all the players stopped play and stood at attention. Now that was a very special moment for our Pickleball community.

See Video (by Gary N.)

We had a fantastic turnout of 80 members and volunteers at Wixon’s second Social Tournament on Thursday!

Congratulations to overall winners Chris (Behind the back) Bushing and Terrific Tina Downey who played David Delcegno and Ann McKinney in a thrilling final game!  David and Ann bested David Perrone and Meg Robstad in the Group B semi-finals to get to the final match.  Shout out to Mike Bucciero who had a perfect score, but wasn’t able to stay to play in the final round.

Thanks to Mary Woods who got the day started with an invigorating aerobic warm up on the courts! 

Many thanks go to the tournament committee volunteers, as well as everyone who brought snacks to make the day possible.  Kudos to Terry, Ginny, Karen, Gary, Paul, Jane, Jean, Wendy, Lynn, Cheryl, Denis and Meg who made the day run so smoothly!  Thank you to the FODP board for planning and sponsoring the event. .

Event Details

See Photos 

 Discussion Points from FODP Board Meeting  

• Plans for indoor play
• Update on Healthy Connections Event for Octoboer
• End of Season Social Member Tournament

 In appreciation for all that Volunteers have done  for this season  the FODP Board put on a Volunteer Appreciation Social on Sept ember 21. 

Have you noticed the latest improvement to the Wixon courts?   Windscreens were recently installed at the west side of the courts in order to mitigate the effect of wind on play.   The FODP board worked with Dustin Pineau, Town of Dennis Recreation Director, to get approval for the project.   It took hours of research by board member Bob Guilbert to find an acceptable solution that would provide protection from the wind while being transparent.   The screens were purchased by the Town, and installed by volunteers from FODP.   

Many thanks to Bob, Gary Nowitz, Rick Vogeley and Paul Campbell, for installing the screens last week in 90 degree heat!   

One of the concerns of the town is the integrity of the fence, so they will be removed in late fall and then reinstalled in early spring.   

A true team effort to improve play at Wixon!

Summer Social 2022 . August 11th at  Eagles Nest Restaurant and Lounge at Dennis Highlands Golf Course. Thank you for all who helped.

See Photos 

Dennis Women’s pickleball team takes on Yarmouth in a recent home match at Wixon.

See Photos

Dear Members,

In response to membership requests, we will be returning to our original monitor system where there will be a monitor on the Advanced side and a monitor on the Beginner/Intermediate side beginning tomorrow, Friday, July 15th.  THE PADDLE SYSTEM WILL NOT BE USED AS OF TOMORROW.  The monitor on the Advanced side will use the whiteboard in the same way as it has been used previously to sign up groups of players. 

1.      REMEMBER that groups will be sent out in the order they are signed up.  Groups of 4 may not go out ahead of a group that may still be waiting to be completed.  Available courts are NOT A DECIDING FACTOR in groups of 4 wanting to “jump the order” in which they have signed up.  They may not jump the line regardless as to whether or not there are available courts.

2.     PLAYERS MUST COME OFF THE COURTS AT THE END OF THE GAME.  They may not stay on the court and just switch around for another game.

3.     Some monitors may be familiar with players who have shown their tags previously this season.  However, you may be asked for a tag.  Be respectful and show your tag, please.

4.     If Advanced courts are not full, a challenge court may be set up at the request of the players. A winning team may only stay out for a total of 2 consecutive games and then must come off at which time another challenge group of 4 may go out again and reset the challenge protocol if requested.

We value input from our members to ensure that we address needs and concerns so that players are respected and so that pickleball is an enjoyable experience for everyone!

 Dear Members,

Please read the changes in registered member play, which will begin tomorrow, Monday, June 20th.  

These changes were made as a result of the clear majority of our members playing on the Beginner/Intermediate courts. We hope that the changes will contribute to the comfort of all players and to the  positive culture of Dennis pickleball.

1.  Instead of having a monitor on the Advanced side, there will be a paddle system hung on the fence, for those players to use.  However, monitors will check tags during the morning.  Please be accomodating realizing that, with close to 800 members, everyone wants to ensure that registered members are using the very busy courts. Thank you!

2.  The Paddle system follows the same respectful routine as the monitored whiteboard system where groups need to wait to play until the group(s) ahead of them are complete and have gone out to play. There is a "marker" on the paddle system that is slid along to show which group of paddles is next to go out to play.

3.The Beginner/Intermediate side has routinely been having 4 groups of players up on the whiteboard waiting to play by 9:30.  Often, that side of play needs to drop to winning at 9.  This imbalance continues well into the dedicated play time where courts 5 and/or 6 have been used daily to alleviate the wait times.  Then, as the heavy side lightens, those courts are "returned" to Advanced play.

5.  CHANGE IN COURT ASSIGNMENTS:  So, starting on Monday, June 20th, courts 5 and 6 will be included with the other Beginner/Intermediate courts from the start of registered play time until play lightens on that side when one or both courts will be "returned" to Advanced play.

THIS DECISION WAS MADE AFTER DAILY NUMBERS OF PLAY HAVE CONSISTENTLY BEEN LIGHTER ON THE ADVANCED SIDE AND HEAVY ON THE BEGINNER/INTERMEDIATE SIDE.

6.  CHANGE IN MONITOR DUTIES:  Both scheduled monitors will work together on the Beginner/Intermediate side to run one board, direct traffic, hand out tags, and handle other monitor duties of set up and clean up.  The cart will also be brought to the Beginner/Intermediate side, leaving a First Aid kit on the Advanced side.

As always, we will continue to watch how play/numbers are running so that we can address situations as they arise.

Thank you all for your cooperation and enjoy the improving weather!

 Due to an overwhelming request, Sherry has added slots for all “Specialty” clinics starting June 27th through the end of August!

To register, go to  Clinics  on Dennis Pickleball Website and then click on “See Flyer”, click on link to sign up genius. 

Before arriving to any clinic participants must sign and bring the waiver and general precautions forms located on the Dennis Pickleball Website.  Availability is limited so don’t wait!

  Any questions, please email Sherry Scheer at sherryscheer@gmail.com

Every year we offer clothing with our logo "Friends of Dennis Pickleball", 

See:  This year's selections.

Please note the deadline to place an order is JUNE 10th.  

Should you have any questions, please email Diane Treiber at dbtreiber@gmail.com.

I have had multiple players asking "what size am I, do the shirts run big, or small, what does the fabric feel like"....   With that I will be at the Wixon Courts, Sunday May 29  and Monday May 30  between the hours of 9 - 11 AM will some samples of the clothing.  

Click here:  for  the order form.  Should you not be able to make it to the courts or have additional questions, please email Diane Treiber at dbtreiber@gmail.com.

 Again, thank you for supporting the "Friends of Dennis Pickleball",  and remember to say "thank you" to all the volunteers that make FODP a great community!

Thank you and see you on the courts!

Diane Treiber

Sherry Scheer has spaces still available in the following clinics this summer! 

Your can register at Sherry's Pickleball Clinics or contact her at Sherryscheer@gmail.com for more information.  All clinics take place at the Wixon Courts.

Two Improver Clinics Just Added - July 25 and 27 at 3:00-4:30 and 4:30-6:00

Openings available in following clinics:

July 5 & 7  3:00-4:30  Drop shots and 3rd shot drives (6 spots)

July 5 & 7  4:30-6:00   Defending the Transition Zone (1 spot)

August 8 & 10  3:00-4:30  Improver Clinic (3 spots)

August 8 & 10  4:30-6:00  Improver Clinic (2 spots)

August 16 & 18  3:00-4:30  3rd and 5th shot drops (2 spots)

August 16 & 18  4:30-6:00  Speed ups and Dinking strategies (5 spots)

Click here for FODP May 2022 Information Sheet 

• We plan to set aside courts 12 and 14 on 4 mornings in May for members who are Beginners to use from 9:00-10:00 on May 17,19,24,26.
• Let the monitor know that you are a Beginner so that they can set you up in a group of 4 to play with other Beginners.  We hope that reserving those courts for that hour on those 4 days will encourage Beginners to come and play with others at that level and get to know the game.  
• Members who are beginners are always welcome to come during monitored play time.  But we are trying this plan to build in some support for new players.
• It is good to let the monitor know that you are a beginner whenever you come to play so that they can set you up with other new players.
• You can also ask for help from coaches who are there.
• We do ask that Beginners (and coaches) be aware of the time they are out on the court simply because a Beginner match can go on for much longer simply because it can take a while for a team to reach 11. On average, a match takes about 15-20 minutes, give or take.
• With over 750 members, we do want to turn courts over as soon as possible.  So, even if your game is not at 11, but you've been playing for around 20 minutes, please come off so that others can play.
• This applies to coaches who are helping, too.  Please be aware of the time of a regular match.
• Also, our pro, Sherry Scheer invites Beginners to email her and let her know your interest in having her add some Beginner clinics to her schedule.  She is a wonderful instructor as well as a nationally ranked player. Her email is 

Sherryscheer@gmail.com

We hope that this initiative is well received and that you look forward to having fun and learning the game!

In the National Senior Games this weekend in Fort Lauderdale -

Bob LeClair of Harwich won gold in Men’s 75+ 3.5 singles

Frank Sakata of Plymouth won bronze in Men’s 75+ 3.5 singles

Tom Quimby and Glenn Martin won gold in Men’s Doubles

Congratulations to All!!!

See Photos

 Please read THIS ENTIRE message!  Important reminders for ALL LEVELS OF PLAY.  We have over 750 members.  These reminders are imperative for everyone. Everyone needs to abide by the rules to provide a positive and respectful environment for ALL MEMBERS.

• Opening day is Monday May 16th for play at Wixon courts!  9:00-12:00
• Display your MEMBER TAG or pick it up at the courts.  YOU WILL BE ASKED TO SHOW IT.  
• NO ONE PLAYS WITHOUT A TAG.  This is to ensure that only members are using the courts during the time that over 750 members have paid for.
• Be RESPECTFUL to all monitors, who are volunteers.  
• Respect among all players provides sportsman like conduct and is EXPECTED.
• Monitors will sign up players in groups of 4.
• NO GROUP OF 4 CAN GO OUT ON THE COURTS IF THE GROUP AHEAD OF THEM IS WAITING TO BE COMPLETED.   THIS HOLDS TRUE EVEN IF COURTS ARE AVAILABLE.
• Upon completion of each game, PLAYERS MUST EXIT THE COURTS AND HAVE THE MONITOR SIGN UP PLAYERS WHO WANT TO PLAY AGAIN.
• NOTHING IS TO BE BROUGHT OUT ON THE COURTS, including water bottles, bags, extra balls, extra paddles, etc.  
• NOTHING IS TO BE HUNG ON THE FENCES OR ON ANY NETS.
• NO PARKING ON THE SCHOOL DRIVEWAY UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.
• If parking along Old Chatham Road, FACE THE DIRECTION OF RTE 134 with all wheels to the RIGHT OF THE WHITE LINE.  Police take notice.

THANK YOU TO EVERYONE WHO KNOWS THAT RULES ARE THERE TO RUN A SUCCESSFUL PROGRAM AND PROVIDE A POSITIVE EXPERIENCE FOR EVERYONE!  We look forward to a great 2022 season.  See you on Monday!

Despite the raw, cold, misty morning, and wet courts, we had a huge turnout for the first ever Welcome to Wixon event this morning, May 11th! 

We want to thank everyone who braved the lousy weather and who brought the “sunshine of their smiles” and positive attitudes with them to the courts to hear about the wonderful Dennis pickleball program!

Special thanks go out to the folks who planned, set up, and brought yummy treats for the event.  Heading up the hospitality gang was Joan Ryan along with Diane Treiber and Ulla Clausen. Thank you to many others who brought treats to share. We also want to thank other “veteran” members who stopped by to say, “Hello,” to the new folks and support the event, among whom was Paul Campbell who graciously handed out tags to the attendees who hadn’t picked them up yet. 

The next scheduled tag pick up is this Saturday from 11:00-2:00 at the courts.  As we’ve said many times, you may always get your tag during monitored play times all through the season at the courts from the monitors. 

Last but not least, a thank you to Bill and DeeDee Haltermann who heroically tried drying 2 courts in the hopes that we might get to play, but Mother Nature had other plans!  Again, thanks to everyone who helped make our first Welcome to Wixon event a success!! Can’t wait for Opening Day, May 16th!!! 

Jackie Walker, Jane Leclaire, and Mary Piltch  

See Photos

Congratulations to the many Dennis PB members who medaled at the Connecticut Masters Tournament this past weekend.  This tournament was a qualifier for the National Senior Games to be held in Pittsburg in 2023!!!   Winners are below: 

• Sherry Scheer / Doug Steinberg -  GOLD - Mixed Doubles Division I 
• Sherry Scheer / Patricia Ricciardi – GOLD - Women’s Doubles Division I 
• Ann Medeiros / Soon-Ae Bushing – GOLD - Women’s Doubles Division III 
• Nat Boughton / Bob Guilbert – GOLD - Men’s Doubles Division II 
• Dave Delcegno / Jeff Stewart - SILVER - Men’s Doubles Division II 
• Soon-Ae Bushing / Chris Bushing – BRONZE - Mixed Doubles Division II 
• Gail  Sakata / Frank Sakata- BRONZE - Mixed Doubles Division II 
• Kymberly Wilkerson/Robin Gibbs - BRONZE - Women’s Doubles Division III

See Medal presentation Photos

Dear Members, 

PLEASE, PLEASE READ THIS WONDEFUL OFFER!  In an effort to provide support to fellow members who are either new to pickleball or are beginning players, we are looking for members who are familiar with the game and who have played enough to know the rules, scoring, and basic skills for Beginners.  DON’T STOP READING YET! WE ARE REALLY EXCITED TO BE ABLE TO HELP OUR NEW AND BEGINNING PLAYERS FEEL WELCOME AND COMFORTABLE WITH PICKLEBALL AT OUR WIXON COURTS!  This plan is flexible and is nothing that you would need to schedule into your play.  Below is how we envision the “coaching” to work.

1.    On any monitored play day that you would be willing to be available to “coach”, you would simply let that day’s monitor know to list your name on the whiteboard in case a new or beginning player would like support (for about the time it takes for an average game). On any given day, there may be one or more available “coaches” who have their names on the board.

2.    If no player has asked for some coaching yet, you would just begin playing, as usual.  The monitor will let “coaches” know if and when the request for a “coach” is made.

3.    Depending on the need of the player or players who would like some help, you may be going over the rules of the game or the scoring of the game.

4.    You may be helping with basic skills such as serving or dinking or perhaps getting to the kitchen, keeping the paddle up and ready, and keeping your eye on the ball.  BEGINNING SKILLS.

5.    You may be working with one player or even a group of 2, 3, or 4 Beginners who might want you to give basic tips as you watch their play.

6.    Perhaps 2 “coaches” would work with 2 Beginners, or 1 “coach” plays a game with 3 Beginners.

7.    We envision flexibility in providing “coaching”.  Any configuration will be great depending on the need each day!

WE HAVE A GREAT PICKLEBALL COMMUNITY IN DENNIS AND WE KNOW THAT MANY PLAYERS WOULD MAKE GREAT COACHES AND CONTINUE TO PROVIDE A WELCOMING AND POSITIVE CULTURE FOR OUR MEMBERS.  PLEASE CONSIDER SENDING YOUR NAME TO THE EMAIL BELOW SAYING YOU ARE WILLING TO COACH AND CONSIDER YOURSELF A COACH  WHENEVER IT FITS INTO YOUR SCHEDULE.  OPENING DAY IS MAY 16th.   THANK YOU!  THANK YOU! 

Please respond to   17pickleball@gmail.com

Dear Members, 

As you know, we are fast approaching May 16th as the Opening Day of our 2022 pickleball season at Wixon in Dennis.  It has been wonderful playing all through the winter.  But now we are all looking forward to the official start of organized/monitored play. Our membership is already at the 700 mark which was our ENDING number last year. Therefore, in order to provide COMFORTABLE PLAYING CONDITIONS FOR OUR MEMBERS, THIS FRIDAY, APRIL 8th, WILL BE THE LAST DAY FOR OUT OF TOWN FOLKS TO REGISTER.    DENNIS RESIDENTS WILL CONTINUE TO BE ABLE TO REGISTER THROUGHOUT THE SEASON WITH NO CAP.  Reminders about Tag Pick Up Dates and Times will be sent out soon.  Looking forward to a wonderful 2022 pickleball season. 

Comments/Questions need to be sent to 17pickleball@gmail.com.

Thank you and see you on the courts! 

Good evening, All!! 

Those of you who were at the courts this morning are aware of the work that George Levesque and Jeff Treiber did today adjusting all of the pickleball nets in preparation of our new season!! They worked with the precision of surgeons and we want to extend our SINCERE THANKS to them for volunteering their time and expertise to ensure our nets are of correct heights…although some of us may challenge that their side of the nets are indeed higher thus causing balls to have trouble clearing them on shots that are obviously on target to clear them!!!! But, seriously, we thank George and Jeff for their time and dedication to help prepare Wixon courts for the opening of a wonderful 2022 season! It’s this kind of unselfish willingness to volunteer time and talent to Dennis pickleball that makes our program so popular and enjoyable. So, again, thank you, George and Jeff,   for your time and expertise. Looking forward to a WONDERFUL NEW 2022 SEASON!! 

A number of towns on the cape, including Dennis, are participating in a Cape wide pickleball tournament this spring.  Anyone who resides on the cape is eligible to participate.  It looks to be a lot a fun, and a great way to play with others on the cape.  A flyer is attached with information.  Questions?  email ccpo.commissioner@gmail.com

Our friend ( and yours) Rick Knight won Gold at the Del Ray APP Pro-Am this weekend. With Bob Hudson, a partner he just met. Congratulations, Rick!   Dedication rewarded.

The previously published process was a 2 step process that  required signing up  for Pickleball Membership and then signing up for Pickleball activity. This process was revised by the town  on 3/2/22. Going forward , the process for signing up for pickleball is now 1 step, signup for Pickleball Membership only. 

Once on the registration web site https://dennisrecreation.activityreg.com/ClientPage_t2.wcs  choose the BIG GREEN BUTTON – “Pickleball Membership”

Details: 

• Registration will open for Dennis residents first and run from Feb. 28th – March 13th. Starting on March 14th, registration will be open to everyone. 
• Cost is $45 for residents, $65 non residents 
• Go to the town registration web site at https://dennisrecreation.activityreg.com/ClientPage_t2.wcs 
• Log into your account, or create one if you don't have one already.  (If you registered in the past, you will have an account.) Select “Pickleball Membership”
• Members will need to upload a photo to complete the membership registration process.
• Note: you can use a photo with more than one person in the photo , the upload process will identify faces and allow you to select the individual face you wish to use  for each member. A separate upload process is required for each additional family member. This process is helpful vs trying to crop photos manually as the process has photo size requirements.
• Check out and submit payment by check or charge card.  You can create an account with the Payment service or Pay as “guest”    

You should receive confirmation emails for registration and payment (please check your Spam or Trash folder)               

The Town of Dennis Recreation Department will be using a new format for registration this season.

 You must sign up for a Pickleball Membership first, and then sign up for Pickleball Sign Up - Outdoor Pickleball 2022.  Please see the attached flyer for more information. 

This new process (including Membership registration) BEGINS ON FEBRUARY 28.

Registration will open for Dennis residents first and run from Feb. 28th – March 13th. Starting on March 14th, registration will be open to everyone, 

See: Town Registration Site 

PICKLEBALL CLINICS - SPRING AND SUMMER 2022  Pickleball Clinics are coming!!!

Cape Cod pro Sherry Scheer will once again offer pickleball clinics at the Wixon courts for beginners, intermediate and advanced players beginning in May

For more information and to register, please refer to the attached flyer or email sherryscheer@gmail.com. 

 Results of the 2021 Survey letter to members

The Friends of Dennis Pickleball BOD wants to thank the 206 people for taking the time to respond to the survey. It is greatly appreciated. Your comments provide us with additional items to put on our agenda for the coming year.

There were some technical issues with the survey that we hope to eliminate for next year. Some people did not get the survey at all and some people who use comcast email had it go into their spam account.  We know some of you wanted to respond and couldn’t for one technical reason or another. Also, some members, if they used their computer, rather than their phone, could only rate the items from 1-4. They did not have 5, the “excellent” rating as a choice. Many players approached us and said they would have used the 5 rating but couldn't access it. Given the lack of a 5 rating, and some of the above difficulties, the results are less reliable. However, given all of the above technical difficulties what we did get is very positive ratings (despite the lack of a 5 rating) and very positive comments. Again, next year we will work to fix these technical problems.

Below is a summary of the results of the survey and some of your wants for next year.

Based on your responses from last year’s survey and input we worked with the town and made the following changes and/or additions to monitored play at Wixon courts:

-       Added Sunscreens

-       Unlocked gates to allow access

-       Instituted Different start times in July/August (8-11)

-       Piloted self-sign up for courts

-       Staffed 2 Healthy Connections instruction programs

-       Tarred surface around the bleachers

-       Added hooks to benches and sheds to hang bags

-       Gave members access to squeegees and brooms

-       Provided Two porta pottys at the courts, with one still available

-       Ran a Social Tournament

-       Added more clinics

Our 2021 survey results are as follows:

206 responded to the survey, about a 30% response rate which is great, and as we said more of you wanted to and may have not been able to respond.

·      About one third of members live on cape year-round, and about one third of the members are in Dennis, with two thirds coming from other cape and off cape towns.

·      Parking continues to be an issue.

Ranking on a scale of 1 to 5 (5 being excellent) of the following:

·      Registration 4.53

·      Parking 3.62 (There is no way to fix this at this time.)

·      Facilities 4.28

·      Clinics 4.21

·      Community 4.38

·      Wait Times 4.05

·      Levels of Play 4.18

·      Opportunity to Improve Play 4.06

·      Schedule of organized play 4.37

·      Change in Play Times July/August 4.37

·      Effectiveness of Monitors 4.43

·      Self-Sign up 3.72 (You expressed interest to keep monitored play)

Thank you for taking the time to let us know what was important to making your PB experience enjoyable. Below are the most popular comments for improvements for next year which the BOD will be working on for next season

-       Clinics to take place outside of monitored playing times. This should reduce wait times.

-       Expand opportunities to play outside of monitored times, such as Round Robins

-       More local social and/or intertown PB activities and events

-       Work to procure wind screens

-       Support the town in locating indoor play

Find ways to help people who want to improve their play

Wishing you all a happy holiday season. See you on the courts!

 Good Morning, Everyone,

• Dates and info. for 2022 registration will soon be forthcoming.
• NEW!!!!!  Everyone will be asked to show proof of registration when picking up stickers at Wixon courts for 2022.
• NEW!!!!  We will be giving out 2022 stickers to place on your old tag for the 2022 season , so please keep your old tag.  
• We have replacement tags for people who haven't kept tags and  new tags for members who register for the first time in 2022. 
• But it would EXPEDITE CHECK IN to have your old tag ready when you come to get your 2022 sticker.
• Stickers will be placed on all tags, so that all members will have a sticker to signify their 2022 registration. 

Questions or comments can be sent using our "Contact Us Form"

Seven Pickleball Rule Changes for 2022

The Official Pickleball Rulebook is reviewed and, to the extent necessary, revised and updated every year, as pickleball rules continue to evolve as the sport evolves. As a result, it is important to stay up-to-date on pickleball rules changes so that you know the right call on the pickleball court (especially if you plan to play a pickleball tournament).

For the 2022 calendar year, there are some important additions, deletions, and other revisions to the rules of pickleball that you should be aware of. You may find information on all the changes at  

The Pickler - Rule Changes 

FODP