ROCKPORT — Three members of Midcoast Recreation Center pickleball program left Maine on Nov. 3 to compete at the 2018 USAPA National Championship pickleball tournament in Indian Wells, California.

Ken Blazej, Patti Montana, and Baxter Smith each earned their spot at the national tournament earlier in the year by taking first place in their respective divisions at the New England Championship tournament. When the three were asked for their thoughts on competing at the national tournament, each expressed feelings of excitement and anticipation to be competing among the best pickleball players in the country.

The USAPA National Championship tournament, this year held at the Indian Wells Tennis Center, had over 2,500 pickleball players competing on 44 pickleball courts over the course of a week. Blazej, Montana, and Smith each competed in multiple events during the week, with Blazej winning bronze in the men’s singles 3.5 division and Smith silver in the men’s singles 3.0 division.

“I felt fortunate to be playing at this tournament, at this level, against some great players,” said Blazej. “To me, pickleball is about fun, exercise, camaraderie, and friendly competition. [The tournament was] maxed out on all the above at the nationals.”

“The opportunity to play at the USAPA Nationals proved to be every bit as memorable as I had imagined,” stated Smith. “The Indian Wells venue was certainly ‘world class’ as described. I can not imagine ever playing pickleball in a more impressive facility and beautiful setting. Watching the world’s best play up close was every bit as impressive as the venue. I felt very fortunate to be able to have played with both Ken and Pattie and share an experience that will long be remembered! I would definitely encourage anyone that loves pickleball to consider going if given the opportunity. I am glad I did!”

“It was an honor to be one of 10 players representing Maine; three of us who regularly play at MRC in Rockport,” Montana added. “I felt fortunate to be able to watch, meet and chat with many of the professional players.”

The MRC, in a news release, congratulated Blazej, Montana, and Smith on their fantastic playing, and thanked them for representing MRC so well at the national championships.

For those interested in learning to play pickleball or on brushing up on pickleball skills, the MRC has many different pickleball classes including learn to play classes, skills and drills classes, and open play, with at least one class every day. To sign up for a class, or for more information, visit midcoastrec.org or call 236-9400.

Reach the sports department at: sports@penbaypilot.com.