Sasser & Sweat Win Pickleball Gold
Local pickleball players, Maria Sasser and Terry Sweat, have won Gold Medals for their First Place finishes at the Georgia Recreation & Parks Association's State Tournament and in the Southern Pickleball Championship Tournament.
Maria is from Vidalia and Terry lives in Zaidee, but they competed as partners representing the Vidalia Recreation Department at the GRPA State Tournament held at the Macon Indoor Pickleball Club in September. The pair were undefeated in six games at the 3.0 skill level of the 60-andabove age division to become State Champions.
On January 4, 2025, Maria and Terry competed in the Southern Pickleball Championships against 3.0 skill level players from Georgia, South Carolina, Alabama, and Florida. Once again, they went undefeated as they won Gold Medals in the 60-andabove division. The event was held at Macon's Rhythm & Rally Sports and Events, which is the world's largest indoor pickleball facility.
The Sweet Onion Pickleball Association and the Vidalia Recreation Department congratulate these ladies for their accomplishments in these competitive tournaments, as Maria and Terry encourage everyone to come out to the VRD pickleball courts to learn and enjoy playing this popular sport with the local pickleball community. About Southern Pickleball Southern Pickleball, a Georgia-based organization, is transforming the pickleball landscape across the southeastern United States. Operating in 10 states, including Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Mississippi, Louisiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, South Carolina, North Carolina, and Virginia, Southern Pickleball has quickly become a regional leader in the sport. Since its inception in 2021, over 15,000 players have participated in Southern Pickleball events, with a remarkable 60 tournaments hosted in 2024 alone.
Dedicated to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment, Southern Pickleball focuses on amateur players seeking both competition and community. Beyond tournaments, the organization supports local pickleball clubs by providing training, lessons, and equipment, ensuring the sport's growth at every level. Membership, which costs $30 annually, offers exclusive benefits such as merchandise discounts and access to partner items. Proceeds also help Southern Pickleball continue its mission of enriching pickleball communities across the region. Memberships can be purchased through their club page on Pickleball Brackets at pickleballclubs.com.
With a strong commitment to advancing pickleball's popularity and accessibility, Southern Pickleball encourages enthusiasts to join their growing network. Whether you're a seasoned player or new to the game, you can find opportunities to compete, learn, and connect. To discover upcoming tournaments, visit their website at southernpickleball. com, and join the vibrant community shaping the future of pickleball in the Southeast.
