To the Editor:

On behalf of the Village of Potsdam Recreation Department, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the participants in our first ever Sandstone Fall Classic Pickleball Tournament that was held this past Saturday, Sept. 11.

It is remarkable that events such as this could come together so quickly and have such a positive turnout, which led to a great day of competition. I would like to congratulate Kelly Ward, Peg Langley, James Knott, George White, Dillion Chichester, and Jeff Ward on their top scores for the day, but need to recognize all of those who participated and shared their day with us.

So to Marty Andrews, Dennis Block, Sabel Bong, Lana Bouchard, Kevin Carvill, Pat Charlebois, Joanne Deleel, Broc Denesha, Teresa Fisher, Phil Foisey, Debbie Grant, Gayle Hayes, Cathy Henry, Mike Lahendro, Sai Pandit, Sean Partridge, Rose Perkins, Jason Pfotenhauer, Margaret Pratt, Dave Rishe, Larry Rowe, Dede Scozzafava, Jocelyn Steggert, Mitch Teich, and Kolby Weaver, we thank you.

I was well aware that there would be good players coming through our doors for the event, but was overwhelmed with how truly great people they are as well. It was an absolute pleasure getting to meet all of you and watch you perform.

I would also like to thank Marty Andrews and Sabel Bong, for their time and efforts in putting details of this tournament together. It is the relationships that they have fostered in the community that enabled Pine Street to see hundreds of players come through our doors and play on our courts since July.

But the biggest thank you must be reserved for Teresa Fisher. It was her hard work and coordination that took this small idea of a tournament and manifested it into a fully registered event in less than 24 hours. None of this could have been possible without you and it was inspiring to see all the smiling faces around the arena that were there because of you. Thank you.

I would also like to thank the friends and family that came to spectate and show support for their loved ones during the event as well, along with Saint Larry's Bar and Grill for their hospitality and accommodations after the event.

We hope to see you all again for the event next year!

Trey Smutz
Village of Potsdam Recreation Director