The Dink Tank

In this episode, we sit down with Joel Clark, a rising star in the Cincinnati pickleball scene who recently achieved a triple crown victory at Dink Cincy. With a background as a collegiate tennis player, Joel shares his fascinating journey from picking up his first paddle just two and a half years ago to competing in APP tournaments today. 

Episode Highlights: 

• Joel's pickleball origin story, starting with a $15 paddle and getting beaten by seniors
• The transition from collegiate tennis to competitive pickleball and how the skills transfer
• Insights on the differences between tennis and pickleball doubles strategy
• Joel's experience winning the triple crown (singles, doubles, and mixed doubles) at Dink Cincy
• How to prepare for APP tournaments and manage tournament nerves
• The balance between drilling and playing matches to improve your game
• Finding the right doubles partner whose game complements yours
• Advice for beginners and those playing their first tournament
• How Joel maintains a healthy mindset toward competition
• The current pickleball tournament scene and costs associated with higher-level competition

Whether you're new to pickleball or looking to take your game to the next level, Joel offers valuable insights on improvement, tournament preparation, and maintaining the joy of the game while pursuing competitive success.
 
Connect and play more pickleball in the Cincinnati area at: 

• The Pickle Barn in Alexandria, Kentucky
• Sawyer Point
• Aces Pickleball Club
• The Pickle Lodge

In this episode of the Dink Tank podcast, host Ben sits down with Terry Helmer, who recently won silver in the Dink Cincy tournament at the Pickle Lodge. Terry shares his fascinating pickleball journey from beginner to tournament competitor, offering valuable insights for players of all levels.

Starting in 2021, Terry quickly progressed from community play to competitive tournaments. He reveals how consistent drilling transformed his game and discusses the mental and physical challenges of tournament play. Listeners will learn how Terry and his last-minute tournament partner, John Carterelli, managed to secure silver despite never having played together before their competition in the 4.0-4.5 skill bracket.

Terry provides tactical insights on identifying opponents' weaknesses, adapting strategy mid-game, and the importance of energy management during consecutive matches. He also shares how pickleball offers different "layers" of engagement—from social exercise to serious competition—making it accessible for players with varying goals.

Whether you're a pickleball enthusiast looking to improve your game or someone interested in the competitive side of this rapidly growing sport, Terry's experience offers valuable lessons in perseverance, strategy, and sportsmanship.

Keywords: pickleball tournament strategy, Dink Cincy tournament, pickleball drilling tips, pickleball partner strategy, 4.0 pickleball level, pickleball competition, Pickle Lodge tournament, pickleball journey, silver medal pickleball, tournament preparation

In this episode of the Dink Tank, host Ben sits down with Todd Jungling, co-founder of Pickleball Max. Todd and his wife Teresa have become fixtures in the Cincinnati pickleball community, providing instruction, tournament direction, and valuable content through their long-running blog.

Todd shares his fascinating 40-year pickleball journey, beginning with middle school gym class in Wisconsin and leading to his current role teaching 15+ hours weekly at the Pickle Lodge. Listeners will gain insights into the meticulous work behind organizing major tournaments like Dink Cincy, which recently featured 470 players across 34 events and 980 matches.

Whether you're a beginner looking to improve your game or considering entering your first tournament, Todd offers valuable advice on preparation, strategy, and equipment selection. He emphasizes the importance of practicing with the specific ball type being used in tournaments and explains key differences between indoor and outdoor play.

Key Topics Covered:

• Todd's 40-year pickleball journey from middle school to professional instructor
• The founding and evolution of Pickleball Max over the past decade
• Behind-the-scenes look at tournament organization and direction
• Strategic tips for singles and doubles play
• Equipment considerations including ball selection for different courts
• Youth engagement in pickleball through games like "Jailbreak"

Connect with Pickleball Max: Visit their blog at pickleballmax.com for instructional content and pickleball insights.

#pickleball #pickleballmax #pickleball4.0 #pickleballtournaments #pickleballinstruction #dinksincy #pickleballtips

In this episode of Dink Tank, chat with Carolina Lopez (via phone), a former professional tennis player turned pickleball pro. With a duper rating of 5.75, Carolina shares her remarkable journey from Argentina to becoming a tennis instructor at Quail Tennis Club in Dayton, Ohio, and now competing professionally in pickleball tournaments across the country.

Episode Highlights:

• Carolina's tennis career, starting at age 7 in Argentina and reaching a world ranking around 500
• Her transition to the United States and 22-year career as a tennis instructor
• How she discovered pickleball just three years ago and quickly rose to professional status
• Training strategies for balancing professional pickleball with her tennis coaching career
• Insights into tournament preparation and partnering strategies for mixed and women's doubles
• Carolina's favorite pickleball shots and techniques that transitioned well from tennis
• How the sport of pickleball is rapidly evolving with more power and speed

Carolina discusses her upcoming competition at the U.S. Open in Dayton, Florida, and shares her thoughts on the future of pickleball as more tennis players make the transition. She offers valuable tips for pickleball players of all levels, emphasizing the importance of drilling, consistency, and strategic gameplay.

Whether you're a tennis player considering pickleball, a recreational pickleball enthusiast, or a competitive player looking to improve your game, Carolina's insights provide a fascinating look into the professional pickleball world.

Connect With Us:

• Follow Carolina Lopez: https://www.instagram.com/firecracker_pickleball/
• Follow Dink Tank where ever you podcast!
• Support our sponsors: Cedar Bay Farm

Keywords:

pickleball, tennis pro, professional pickleball, pickleball strategy, pickleball tournaments, pickleball training, tennis to pickleball transition, US Open pickleball, Dayton Ohio pickleball, Moneyball tournaments

In this episode, we're joined by Ali and Ike from Ali and Ike Adventures, certified pickleball coaches and competitors who have made a significant impact on the Cincinnati pickleball scene. From their chance meeting at Middletown Pickleball Association to Ike's national bronze medal, they share insights that will benefit players of all levels.

Episode Highlights:

• [00:01:30] How Ali and Ike each discovered pickleball around 2020, initially with skepticism that quickly turned to enthusiasm
• [00:06:45] The story of how they met through the Women's Pickleball League and instantly connected as partners
• [00:10:20] Their journey to becoming PPR-certified coaches and founding Ali and Ike Adventures
• [00:14:40] Advice for beginners: Using the Pickle Play app, finding friendly courts, and considering lessons
• [00:17:15] Tips for advanced players: Focus on drilling over games and understand your personal pickleball goals
• [00:20:30] Ike's path to winning a national bronze medal in singles competition
• [00:26:15] How pickleball creates community and competitive opportunities for all ages, including Ike's 83-year-old mother
• [00:30:10] Cincinnati's growing pickleball scene: The Pickle Lodge, Middletown's 27 courts, and the National Pickleball League
• [00:34:25] The mental game of pickleball: Developing quick decision-making through consistent drilling

Connect with Ali and Ike:

• Website: aliandikeadventures.com
• Instagram/Facebook: @aliandikeadventures
• Email: [email protected]

Resources Mentioned:

• Pickle Play App: Essential tool for finding pickleball courts anywhere
• Pickle Lodge: Cincinnati facility where Ali and Ike coach
• PPR Certification: Professional Pickleball Registry coaching certification
• National Pickleball League (NPL): Senior-focused competitive league

Cincinnati Area Pickleball Locations:

• Middletown Pickleball Association (MPA): 27 courts with camera system
• JFK Park in Kettering (Dayton area): Organized court monitor system
• Five Seasons in Dayton: Indoor tennis facility with pickleball courts

Stay connected for upcoming clinics in Wisconsin and international pickleball adventures in Sicily!

In this episode, we talk with James "J Smooth" Lawson, a pickleball player, coach, and instructor sponsored by Crush Pickleball. James shares his 7-year pickleball journey, coaching philosophy, tournament experiences, and technical advice for players of all levels.

Guest Bio

James Lawson (aka J Smooth) provides pickleball instruction at multiple facilities including:

• Pickleball Plex
• Lincoln Community Center
• Vandalia Rec Center
• Wright State University
• Centerville Parks and Rec
• Black Barn Pickleball (opening Spring 2025)

Timeline & Topics

[00:00-01:30] Introduction and welcome to James Lawson

• James is sponsored by Crush Pickleball
• Overview of facilities where James coaches

[01:30-05:00] James' pickleball origin story

• Started 7 years ago around Valentine's Day
• Initially declined invitations while walking at the YMCA
• First game experience: "Why haven't I been playing this all along?"
• How his passion for pickleball grew through YouTube videos and practice

[05:00-07:30] Coaching journey and current facilities

• Transition from player to coach
• Multiple coaching locations across the region
• Discussion of Black Barn Pickleball facility opening this spring in Dayton

[07:30-10:00] Community aspects of pickleball

• Comparison to tennis ladder leagues
• Adapting to different playing styles
• Each opponent as a "puzzle" to solve

[10:00-14:00] Tournament experience

• Played in 30-50 tournaments
• US Open in Naples as standout experience
• Description of tournament atmosphere with music and energy
• Mention of upcoming PPA event in Cincinnati/Mason

[14:00-17:30] Common mistakes for newer players

• Reluctance to move to the kitchen line
• Importance of deep serves and returns
• Maintaining proper positioning with your partner
• The "imaginary rope" connecting partners

[17:30-21:00] Advanced player advice and recommended drills

• Fast hands drill for quick decision making
• Reset shots into the kitchen
• Cross-court dinking practice
• Discussion of one-handed vs. two-handed backhands

[21:00-24:30] Mental game strategies

• Developing short-term memory after mistakes
• Taking deep breaths to reset mentally
• How negative energy affects your partner
• Importance of drilling vs. just playing

[24:30-26:30] Closing and contact information

• Origin of "J Smooth" nickname
• How to reach James for lessons
• Instagram: @the_JSmooth
• Website: Lawson Pickleball or J Smooth Pickleball

Key Quotes

• "The game is won at the kitchen line." - James Lawson
• "Everyone's like a puzzle. Who can put this puzzle together the fastest?" - James Lawson
• "Drilling is a big part of your pickleball evolution." - James Lawson
• "You got to forget about the bad and move forward." - James Lawson

Resources Mentioned

• Instagram: @the_JSmooth
• Website: Lawson Pickleball / J Smooth Pickleball
• Black Barn Pickleball (opening Spring 2025)
• US Open Pickleball Championships (Naples, FL)
• PPA Tournament (Cincinnati/Mason)

Sponsorship

This episode is brought to you by Crush Pickleball, sponsor of James "J Smooth" Lawson and Cedar Bay Farm

Connect With Us

• Email: [email protected]

Remember to like, subscribe, and share this episode with your pickleball community!

#Pickleball #PickleballCoaching #PickleballTips #TheDinkTank #JSmooth #KitchenLine #FastHands

In this episode of The Dink Tank, we speak with Kevin Turain, Treasurer of the Middletown Pickleball Association (MPA), about the remarkable growth of their organization from humble beginnings to a thriving community with 27 courts and 600+ members. Kevin shares insights on tournament organization, ladder leagues, beginner programming, and the social dynamics that make pickleball so addictive.

Key Topics Covered

• [00:01:30] Kevin's pickleball origin story and how his wife Ike introduced him to the sport
• [00:04:15] The history of MPA - from Stanley and Marsha Volkins' DIY courts to 27 professional courts
• [00:07:45] MPA's unique partnership with the city of Middletown for court maintenance and programming
• [00:09:30] The "Learn to Play" program - free beginner lessons with 10 different skills stations
• [00:12:40] Tournament organization - managing 400-450 players in a single day
• [00:15:20] The different ladder league formats (novice, intermediate, advanced, women's, seniors)
• [00:18:45] How DUPR rating integration works with league play for accurate skill matching
• [00:22:10] Court access, the webcam system, and 24/7 playing opportunities
• [00:24:35] MPA membership benefits ($75 annually) and discounted equipment
• [00:27:50] Tournament advice for beginners and understanding rating systems
• [00:30:15] Breaking through skill plateaus with professional instruction
• [00:33:40] The psychology of pickleball's addictive nature and social dynamics
• [00:36:20] Traveling and finding pickleball courts anywhere with the Pickle Play app

Notable Quotes

"The courts are lit until 11 p.m., and our lights turn on at 5 a.m... so if the weather's right, you can go out and play." - Kevin Turain on MPA's accessibility

"I found that I'd get better, feel good about some skills, and then plateau. The only way I was able to get out of that plateau was to get some lessons from a professional instructor." - Kevin Turain on skill development

"Most games last less than 15 minutes. You have a relationship with three other people for 15 minutes... Usually in that time, you decide 'I'd like to play with them again' or 'I wouldn't like to play with them again.'" - Kevin Turain on pickleball's social dynamics

Resources Mentioned

• Middletown Pickleball Association: MiddletownPickleball.com
• Pickle Play app for finding courts nationwide
• DUPR rating system for accurate skill assessment
• Pickleball Central for discounted equipment (available through MPA membership)
• Professional instructors mentioned: Todd Jungling (Pickleball Max) and Cammie Stoner

Connect With Us

• Email questions: [email protected]

Sponsors

Cedar Bay Farm

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#Pickleball #PickleballCommunity #PickleballTournaments #TheDinkTank #PickleballLeagues #DUPR #LearnToPlayPickleball

In this episode, Mitch shares the fascinating origin story of Pickle Lodge, Cincinnati's premier pickleball facility. As a self-described "masochist" who values volunteering, Mitch founded the Cincinnati Pickleball Club in January 2020 to grow the sport locally. His online visibility led to a fateful connection with Joe Frank, owner of the Fowling Warehouse, in July 2020. Though the Fowling Warehouse wasn't suitable for pickleball, their partnership flourished through a shared "yes, and" philosophy that would eventually create Pickle Lodge. 

Mitch details the challenging transformation of a neglected 1970s tennis facility (Courtyard Sportsplex) into the thriving 60,000-square-foot, 23-court Pickle Lodge. Despite construction delays and unexpected costs, the business achieved profitability in its first year. Mitch also reveals plans for their second location, Pickle Lodge at Lunkin Landing, set to open in fall 2025. 

The conversation explores Mitch's personal pickleball journey, beginning in Northern Michigan in 2017 and blossoming into full addiction by 2018. Mitch compares pickleball's addictive nature to golf rather than tennis, explaining how it becomes "part of your personality." Throughout the episode, Mitch's marketing background, entrepreneurial spirit, and passion for community-building shine through as the driving forces behind Pickle Lodge's success. 

The podcast features an interview with Chip and Mikala (via phone), a father-daughter pickleball team who recently won a tournament called the Battle of the Paddle. They discuss their individual journeys into the sport—Mikala began playing in 2023 after a spontaneous practice session with her father, while Chip started after knee replacement surgery in 2021 as a way to stay competitive without the high-impact demands of basketball. Despite living in different states (Tennessee and Ohio), they managed to practice together whenever Mikala visited.

The duo shares insights about their tournament strategy, including exploiting opponents' weaknesses and maintaining mental fortitude when facing early deficits. They describe their kitchen control philosophy, emphasizing patient dinking to set up offensive opportunities rather than relying solely on power shots. Both players reveal what they're working to improve—Chip focuses on third-shot drops and varying his serves, while Mikala is developing her two-handed backhand and offensive capabilities. Their advice for recreational players looking to improve includes proper warm-up, dedicated drilling, and watching professional matches while enjoying the gradual process of skill development rather than rushing to achieve advanced ratings.

Note: corrected email contacts below.

[email protected]

[email protected] 

Moe and I discuss the companies history, beer and food selection and sports offerings!

Pickleball Leagues Starts March 17th!

Type: Beginner to Advanced
Format: 2v2 Co-ed, Men’s, and Women’s
Duration: 8 Weeks of League Play
Available Days: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday