Sunday June 3 was a special day for the Aiken Pickledillys. Loretta and Mike Beckner recently retired in their District and Local Ambassador roles and we celebrated their contributions to the development and growth of pickleball in Aiken and beyond.
Loretta and Mike introduced pickleball to Aiken in 2010. From its earliest days when people were confused by its name and often didn't show up in enough numbers to fill one court, pickleball has grown to an extended community of 500 individuals with enough regular players that the 9 city-provided indoor courts, and often the outdoor courts, are full to capacity. We are bursting at the seams thanks to Loretta and Mike's outreach.
The event at Trio's in the Alley was attended by over 80 guests. Speeches touched on all aspects of the contributions by the Beckners, with representatives from the city, the Ambassador community and the Pickledillys, providing perspective. Loretta and Mike concluded the evening with emotional remarks capturing the history, humor and excitement of pickleball in Aiken.
Thank you Loretta and Mike for all you have done to give us a new passion, improve our health, create new friendships and celebrate time together.
Click here see a collection of photos from the evening.
