Tournaments and partners = fun, friends and family
Dr. J being presented with the Pickleball Sportsmanship Medal from PB tournament director Martha Ann Lumpkin of the Georgia Golden Olympics 2014
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Dr. J 2 Gold and 2 bronze at the Georgia Golden Olympics 2015
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The ethics of partnership - Dr. J
1. Encourage, encourage, encourage - even when your partner makes a mistake!
2. Work on your partnership in private in practice, never while playing a tournament game. Do communicate throughout the game, e.g. call for the ball "mine", "yours".
3. Criticism, judgment and discouragement do not belong in an enjoyable partnership. Find another partner if any of these three killers exist. It's a game. It's supposed to be fun. No "sorrys!" We all make bad shots.
4. Give advice when asked. Otherwise practice Will Roger's statement:
"Never pass up an opportunity to keep your mouth closed!"
5. Take lessons and get coaching together. Let a third person tell you what needs to be corrected or changed.
6. Find a partner that you like, that you are compatible with and communicate effectively as a team.
7. Have fun! Win or lose, have fun. Enjoy the game, the other players and your partner!
