08/10/2026
๐ The APC Spirit of Pickleball winners are in! ๐
These nominations were given anonymously by participants of the 2026 Stockland Halcyon Australian Pickleball Championships, recognising players who embody our core values: Sporting, Passion, Inclusivity, Respect, Integrity and Trailblazing. These values matter, and these players are so deserving of recognition.
Congratulations to:
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"Braam's passion goes beyond competing and winning. Living with Type 1 diabetes since a young age, and with vitiligo, he competes wearing golf gloves and sleeves for sun protection. Jet-lagged after a work trip, he played skinny singles just 55 minutes after landing on the Gold Coast from NYC. He also helps dink away communication barriers, connecting with Deaf and hard of hearing players players and teaching referees some sign language along the way."
๐๐ถ๐น๐ฒ๐ฒ๐ป ๐๐ผ๐ป๐ฒ๐๐บ๐ฎ๐ป
"Eileen's voluntary support of pickleball makes her the perfect SPIRIT candidate. Her happy and helpful disposition at the Check-In desk made me feel so welcomed, and I can't imagine how many hours she volunteered helping others and making sure everyone had the best time. Thank you, Eileen!"
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"Pearl, at only 12 years of age, embodies the SPIRIT of Australian Pickleball. She showed true sportsmanship, always actively encouraging and congratulating her opponents (and even comforting a sad player), and playing with fairness and respect, all while exhibiting a true passion for pickleball. Pearl always has a smile on her face and is a great role model for other young people looking to get into or learn more about pickleball. Well done, Pearl!"
