The Pickleball Phenom: Steve Kass and the Coachella Valley Connection

Sport Spotlight: Steve Kass, a Pickleball Player in the Coachella Valley

Introduction

Steve Kass, a 78-year-old pickleball player, has become a shining star in the Coachella Valley. Known for his dedication, love for the sport, and passion for sharing it with others, Kass has not only made a name for himself on the pickleball court but also within his community. His commitment to pickleball goes beyond personal achievement, as he has successfully introduced the sport to his own family, creating a shared passion that transcends generational boundaries. In a world where families struggle to find activities that can be enjoyed together regardless of age or mobility, Kass offers a shining example of how pickleball can bridge the generational gap and foster connections between loved ones.

A Passion for Pickleball

Steve Kass’s journey in pickleball started when he enrolled in drill classes at the Palm Desert Civic Center under the guidance of Coach Mary Barsaleau. Demonstrating remarkable dedication and a thirst for improvement, Kass quickly made progress and began participating in round robin events. His love for the sport led him to attend advanced drill classes both indoors and outdoors, continually pushing himself to hone his skills.

One admirable quality of Kass is his eagerness to learn. Rather than making excuses or attributing his performance to external factors, Kass seeks to understand the intricacies of pickleball, asking thought-provoking questions. His determination to comprehend concepts like the importance of a consistent third shot drop exemplifies his commitment to doubles success. Kass’s dedication to the sport and his willingness to embrace learning have undoubtedly contributed to his accomplishments as a pickleball player.

A Helping Hand

Beyond his achievements on the court, Kass has endeared himself to the pickleball community by demonstrating incredible kindness and generosity. When Coach Mary Barsaleau found herself in a wheelchair due to an injury, Kass selflessly assisted her by unloading her car daily so she could continue teaching outside. This act of compassion speaks to the character and integrity that Kass embodies both on and off the pickleball court. Additionally, his genuine affection for Coach Mary’s wiener dog, Gracie, further showcases his warm and friendly nature.

Success on and off the Court

Kass’s dedication and skill have not gone unnoticed, as he has achieved remarkable success in senior tournaments held in Arizona and Utah. Interestingly, his men’s doubles partner happens to be an old college friend and former gymnastics athlete. This partnership further highlights the power of lifelong connections built through sports. Kass’s involvement in prestigious events such as the Fall Brawl and Huntsman Senior Games in St. George, Utah, underscores his commitment to competitive pickleball and his desire to continually challenge himself.

Furthermore, Kass has successfully shared his passion for pickleball with his family in Denver. From introducing his daughter, Anitra, to the sport, to arranging private lessons for his grandson, Kass has created a pickleball-loving tribe that spans across generations. By fostering a shared interest in pickleball, Kass has allowed his family to come together in an activity that brings them joy and strengthens their bonds. In a world where family activities can often be challenging to find, Kass’s example serves as an inspiration for creating common ground and cherished memories.

Pickleball: The Sport for All Generations

Kass’s story serves as a testament to the inclusivity and broad appeal of pickleball. Unlike many other physical activities, pickleball allows individuals of all ages, skill levels, and mobility to participate together. It provides a platform for intergenerational connection, where grandparents and grandchildren can engage in a fun and exciting activity on equal footing. By promoting pickleball as a family sport, Kass has shattered the stereotype of grandparents being merely spectators or caretakers, offering them an opportunity to actively participate and create meaningful experiences with their loved ones.

Coach Mary’s Tip of the Week: Avoiding Common Mistakes

Introduction

Coach Mary Barsaleau, the instructor who guided Steve Kass in his pickleball journey, provides valuable tips to beginners in order to avoid common mistakes. These tips aim to improve players’ understanding and execution of fundamental techniques critical to the sport.

The Eight Common Mistakes

1. Lack of Readiness After Serving: Coach Mary emphasizes staying behind the baseline after serving to be prepared for the opponent’s return. Adhering to the two-bounce rule and remaining in a position to react effectively can greatly enhance one’s game.

2. Foot Faults: One common error, especially at the Non-Volley Zone (NVZ), is stepping into the kitchen while volleying the ball. Coach Mary advises players to focus on their balance, using their hips and shoulders rather than taking unnecessary steps during contact or follow-through.

3. Hitting Balls Going Out: A vital rule to remember is to let the ball go if it is shoulder high and likely to go out. Many players make the mistake of attempting to hit balls that are going out, resulting in unnecessary errors.

4. Communication and Positioning: In doubles play, the communication between partners is crucial. A simple rule to follow is that if the ball comes down the middle, the players must communicate and determine who will take the shot. Additionally, players should be aware of their partner’s strengths and adapt their positioning accordingly.

5. Getting to the Net: Coach Mary advises players to prioritize getting to the net after their return. Returning deep and executing a soft third ball drop in the NVZ allows players to reach the net before their opponents, giving them an advantageous position.

6. Using Peripheral Vision: Instead of solely focusing on the ball, players should develop their peripheral vision to be aware of both opponents’ positions. Tracking the ball with their paddle and shifting their weight through their feet and shoulders will enhance anticipation and improve overall court awareness.

7. Mastering Technique: Coach Mary highlights the importance of consistency, placement, and power in shot execution. By mastering the fundamentals before adding spin, players can develop a solid foundation. Keeping the paddle in front, utilizing hips and shoulders, and maintaining a balanced stance are essential for successful shots.

8. Attacking Short Balls: When presented with a short ball that seems attackable, it is crucial to resist the urge to hit the ball with full power. Coach Mary suggests using topspin and hitting at around three-quarters speed. Maintaining a low position, employing a short backswing, and following through with hips and shoulders will lead to better control and more accurate shots.

Upcoming Event

Pickleball enthusiasts can look forward to the Turkey Pickle event at Fritz Burns Park in La Quinta on November 26. Participants can contact Mary at mgbarsaleau@gmail.com to enter the event.

In conclusion, Steve Kass’s exemplification of passion, dedication, and love for the sport of pickleball serves as an inspiration to the pickleball community and beyond. His commitment to continual improvement, unwavering support for his instructor, and the sharing of his passion with his family demonstrates the transformative power of pickleball in forging meaningful connections. As Coach Mary Barsaleau’s tips remind us, avoiding common mistakes while playing pickleball contributes to a more enjoyable and successful experience on the court. Whether it is through personal achievement or shared experiences with loved ones, pickleball has the ability to create lasting memories and foster connections that transcend generations.