Cook County Hosts ‘Meet in the Middle’ Pickleball Tournament

Submitted by Calvin Konop

This August, the spirited community of Grand Marais became the epicenter of in­tense, fast-paced action as the Cook County Tennis and Pickleball Association (CCT­PA) hosted the Meet in the Middle Pickle­ball Tournament. Over two exhilarating days, August 9th and 10th, courts were filled with the sound of paddles, flying balls, and cheers from enthusiastic spec­tators, all set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Superior.

What truly set this year’s tournament apart was the far-reach­ing enthusiasm it in­spired. While local players from Grand Marais came out in force, they were joined by a remarkable array of par­ticipants who traveled from Thun­der Bay, Silver Bay, and Duluth as well as individuals from California, Florida, and Michigan. This diverse turnout showcased the sport’s wide­spread appeal and turned a local competition into a national show­case of skill and sportsmanship.

The competition was defined by a thrilling mix of fun and fierce deter­mination, with every team leaving it all on the court. Across all divi­sions, players demonstrated excep­tional pickleball prowess, executing powerful smashes, strategic dinks, and lightning-fast volleys. Yet, amidst the intense rallies, the spirit of camaraderie never wavered, with players and fans alike celebrating both victories and hard-fought loss­es. The air was electric with energy, but the unwavering respect for the game and for each other was the true highlight.

The highlight of the tournament was the Advanced Mixed Doubles Bracket, where the top three teams battled through a series of elec­trifying matches. After a series of thrilling and hard-fought matches, the victors were decid­ed and celebrated for their outstanding effort and competitive spirit.

With the success of the “Meet in the Mid­dle” event still buzz­ing, the CCTPA is al­ready looking ahead to its next venture. The association plans to host another tourna­ment this winter of new year, promising even more opportunities for players to compete and for the community to gather around a sport that is growing in pop­ularity every day. For those who missed out, or those eager for a rematch, the courts of Cook County are calling.

If you’re interested in more information about the Cook County Tennis and Pickleball Association, visit their website at https://cookcountytennisassociation.com/