MARBLEHEAD — The Marblehead Pickleball League launched in 2024 and is entering its third season. What many don’t see is the amount of behind-the-scenes and offseason work that goes into making the league successful.
From securing a permit from Rec and Park to other tasks such as securing an insurance policy, registration, drafting the team formation, scheduling, court assignments, communication, weather contingencies, rule development, playoffs, and weekly operations, the league has grown significantly since its inception.
What began as a small effort has evolved into a program that now requires a dedicated trio — Lisa Spinale, Kate Dinsmore, and Nadine Simon — working year-round to keep everything running smoothly. The board also includes Tony Mongiello, Anne Tassel, and Jayson Score.
Marblehead Pickleball is proud of what it’s built and grateful for its outstanding eight volunteer captains: Holly Fader, Kelly Morris, Tracy McClure, Alice Moynihan, Jackie Polimeni, Anne Tassel, Scott DeGrossiers, and Tony Mongiello. They, too, invest many hours to create a fun, fair, organized, and competitive experience for all.
In addition to the six-week regular season and seventh-week playoffs, participants were treated to a meet-and-greet, play-and-pizza party to kick off the season.
The league also hosted a special Play With Pros event. Professionals generously spent two hours on the courts, rotating through groups and partnering with different players, giving everyone a unique opportunity to learn, compete, and have fun alongside top-level talent.
Marblehead Pickleball also thanks Jahna Gregory, Paul Pruett, Jen Bishop, Dave Gast, Dan and Tina Fox, as well as Dan Santinello for donating their time and making this experience so memorable.
After matches, players often hang out, relax, share food, and watch other games. This transforms league night into a full social event, rather than just a sports competition. Also, players often frequent their sponsors’ establishments: 3 Cod, Rip Tide, and The Landing.
Players return week after week not only to compete, but to reconnect with the community they’ve built.
