Zane Navratil Pickleball December 20, 2023 Newsletter

Congrats to my friend Altaf Merchant and his new bride Ashley who tied the knot earlier this month! Raise your hand if you think Altaf hip thrusted after saying “I do”? 

I’m proud to report that with one title, one final, and the season-ending playoff final appearance, the Orlando Squeeze ended the season as the top ranked Premier Team! It was a wild ride, with lots of competitive and fun matches, amid outside distractions, which made for an unforgettable season.

Last week I flew to Picklemall in Tempe, AZ to film YouTube content. Big shout out to Luke Geiser, aka Pickleball Pigeon for helping me out!

Jenny and I roadtripped home to WI for the holidays, an 18-hour journey so Murray could make the trip with us.

If you follow professional pickleball, you can guess that this offseason isn’t the same. No events or tournaments, but plenty of action going on!

We’re in the home stretch of my 10 Weeks of Giveaways! 

Congrats to Elle Giesler and Kevin Seikho, winners of an Orlando Squeeze ProXR Signature Paddle and very cool Squeeze Swag.

Congrats to the MyJourney winners Shani Blumberg, Tyler Lee, Karen Armstrong, Mia Sadler, and Andrew Caldarella who all received 30-day coaching subscriptions and Lilly Albanese who received a 1-year coaching subscription.

Keep up to date on my Instagram for more chances to win more amazing prizes from me and my partners. I can’t wait to share my Grand Finale prize at the end of the year!

 

Last month Altaf Merchant and I announced our Big Give Fundraiser/Competition. For all those that have donated so far, thank you, thank you, thank you! Know that every dollar you gave goes to funding Alzheimer’s research, and every dollar will also be 100% matched!

If you’re in it for the amazing donation prizes, I’ll take that! If you just want to see Altaf lose and have to wear a tu-tu while singing “I’m a Little Teapot,” I’ll take that too! 

 

These days (actually these last 6 months) there has been no shortage of pro pickleball stories and drama, some good, some not so good. Thomas Shields and I discuss it all on the PicklePod, presented by the Dink. Catch us on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Lobster and Har-Tru are two quality brands, well known for their quality court equipment that elevate your game.

Lobster expertise making ball machines now includes a line of pickleball machines. Check out their selection and use code ZANE5 for 5% off any pickleball machine and accessories. 

Har-Tru is the largest supplier of tennis court surfaces, maintenance equipment and court accessories. Learn more here and use code ZANE10 for 10% off your pickleball equipment purchase..

Last week I filmed in the recently opened Picklemall in Tempe, AZ.

Go here to reserve a court, join open play, become a member, and see where a new Picklemall will be opening near you!

 

 

 

Thorlo pickleball socks are all I wear on the court. I recommend them for their cushion and durability, always needed for a long day on the courts.

 

Between traveling and tournaments, I’ve been having a blast shooting pickleball content throughout the year, and I don’t plan to slow down. Any ideas or feedback to keep the videos relevant and worthwhile, I’m all ears!