Pickleball Champions: Woodworth and Alteri Team Up to Win Championship Series

Pickleball is a sport that has been gaining popularity in recent years, and for good reason. It’s a fun and social game that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels. One recent success story in the world of pickleball comes from the unlikely pairing of 67-year-old Clifton Park resident Woodworth and 18-year-old Schalmont High School graduate Veronica Alteri.

Despite their age difference, Woodworth and Alteri teamed up to compete in a pickleball tournament and ended up winning the championship series in a thrilling comeback. Woodworth, a self-proclaimed recreational player, was impressed by Alteri’s skills on the court and was grateful to have her as a partner.

Alteri, who has a background in tennis and recently completed her freshman season of NCAA Division II tennis, brought her competitive spirit and quick reflexes to the game of pickleball. She credits her success in pickleball to her experience in tennis, which helped her make a smooth transition to the new sport.

While Woodworth may not have plans to compete in another tournament anytime soon, Alteri is eager to continue playing pickleball and hopes to participate in more tournaments in the future. She enjoys the fast pace of the game and the quick reactions required at the net, and is looking forward to playing both singles and doubles events.

The rise of pickleball’s popularity is evident in the Capital Region, with plenty of places to play and a growing community of players. Woodworth and his wife discovered pickleball while living in Tennessee and were happy to find a thriving pickleball scene when they returned to Clifton Park. The sport’s social aspect and low-impact nature make it a great way to stay active and meet new people of all ages.

In addition to local pickleball events, the United States Tennis Association (USTA) recently held its adult league championships at Central Park, attracting players from New York and northern New Jersey. The competition featured mixed doubles events for players of different age groups, with winners advancing to the USTA National Championships later in the year.

Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, pickleball offers a fun and engaging way to stay active and connect with others. With players like Woodworth and Alteri leading the way, the future of pickleball looks bright in the Capital Region and beyond.