The inaugural Pickle 'N Pucks Pro-Am, presented by Verizon, brought an exciting blend of pickleball and hockey to the scenic Aspen Meadows Resort in Colorado, captivating audiences on ESPN2. The event featured top pickleball players like Ben Johns, Anna Leigh Waters, and Collin Johns, alongside NHL stars such as Justin Williams, Kris Draper, and Troy Terry.
The exhibition matches provided thrilling entertainment as these athletes showcased their skills in six action-packed games. Justin Williams, a three-time Stanley Cup Champion, emerged victorious in mixed doubles and gender doubles, teaming up with Waters and Draper. Williams expressed his enthusiasm for pickleball, highlighting its instinctual nature and the excitement it brings, especially when facing high-caliber opponents.
Waters, one of pickleball’s brightest stars, was thrilled to participate, particularly on National Pickleball Day, emphasizing the importance of television exposure for the sport's growth. She reflected on the rapid rise of pickleball's popularity, noting its increasing presence on networks nationwide.
The Pro-Am was the highlight of a three-day event in Colorado, which also included pickleball clinics, strategy classes, and a bike ride through the stunning Maroon Bells with cycling legend Lance Armstrong.
The matches ended with these scores:
The Pickle 'N Pucks Pro-Am showcased the growing popularity of pickleball and its potential to unite fans of different sports through competitive fun.
Anna Leigh On The Mic With Mom and Dave Fleming
Dave Fleming: I feel like the State of Florida right now, with water on both sides of me—Anna Leigh and Leigh Waters are here! Anna Leigh, what's your takeaway from this entire week, being out here with the hockey guys and teaching amateurs who loved learning from you? What’s your perspective?
Anna Leigh Waters: Honestly, coming out here has been amazing. I’ve been to Aspen once before, last summer, and absolutely loved it, though that was more of a vacation, and I didn’t play any pickleball. The altitude here is definitely something to consider—it’s no joke! Out there at the exhibition, you might have noticed some missed shots, and I’m telling you, anytime I missed, it was because of the altitude, not me! (Laughs) But seriously, the conditions are tough here, so when I go to Kansas City, I think I’ll play better since this has been so challenging. But overall, it’s been a cool experience teaching here—I don’t teach that often, so it’s been a lot of fun. I’m really glad to be part of this event.
Dave Fleming: We were thrilled to have you here. Leigh, can you talk about what it’s like to have the best player in the world as your daughter? How do you balance being her mom, coach, and cheerleader?
Leigh Waters: That’s definitely the toughest part—wearing so many different hats. But I think the fact that Anna Leigh and I were teammates before I officially became her coach really helped our relationship. It set a good foundation for how we work together now as mother and daughter, and also as coach and student. Although, sometimes I feel like I’m still the student, and she’s the coach! (Laughs) But seriously, she respects what I have to say, knowing I have experience and knowledge. Even though I’m her coach, I still feel like we’re teammates.
Dave Fleming: Anna Leigh, the Olympics are on everyone’s mind right now. There’s a lot of talk about new sports being added. How much would you love to represent the United States in pickleball? Was that ever a dream of yours, especially considering your background in soccer?
Anna Leigh Waters: Absolutely, I grew up watching the Olympics, and it would be amazing to represent my country in pickleball. I’m hopeful it’ll be included in the Olympics at some point. I’m still young, so even if it’s 10 or 15 years from now, I’d still love to play. Maybe I’ll even retire and then come back for the Olympics—that would be cool! But I hope it happens sooner. Winning an Olympic medal would be unbelievable.
Dave Fleming: Speaking of inspiration, you had the little Sparky’s out there playing with you. What does it mean to be a role model for those kids, and how do you feel about your impact on the youth in pickleball?
Anna Leigh Waters: When I first started playing pickleball, I never imagined I’d be in this position, inspiring others. I was just a kid, probably their age, playing in the park. It’s really cool to have kids come up to me and say I’ve inspired them. I hope I’m a good role model for them. During the exhibition, the kids were cheering me on, telling me what shots to make—it was adorable! One little girl even coached me, saying, "Next point, I want you to drive down the line." It’s great to see kids so involved in the game. I think pickleball is fantastic for kids, not just for becoming great players but as a way to step away from social media and school stress and just enjoy the game.
Dave Fleming: Leigh, it’s National Pickleball Day—such a milestone for the sport. What’s your perspective on the explosive growth of pickleball?
Leigh Waters: It’s incredible. Who would have thought we’d have a National Pickleball Day? The sport has just taken over the country. It’s so social and inclusive, bringing happiness and changing lives beyond just the professional level. We have families coming up to us saying that watching our family play together has inspired them to do the same. What other sport does that? That’s why we all love pickleball.
Dave Fleming: Anna Leigh, last question. You’re 17 years old with a busy schedule. How do you manage everything and still play at the top of your game? What’s coming up for you, and how do you maintain your level of performance?
Anna Leigh Waters: I just graduated high school, so it’s actually less hectic now than it used to be. Having my dad, mom, and sometimes even my grandparents travel with me helps take the load off. It’s comforting to have them with me, so after a match, I can relax. I love the sport, which makes it easier to stay motivated. I’ve been careful not to overplay and to take breaks when needed, so I don’t get burnt out. I want to play this sport for a long time, hopefully until I’m 80 or 90 years old. I’m just having fun and enjoying the journey with my family.
Dave Fleming: Thanks for being out on the court and for jumping into the booth. Anna Leigh Waters, the best player in the world, ladies and gentlemen!
