Meet Dave

Dave and his wife became All-Star members at MVP Crahen in 2014, joining primarily for tennis and group exercise classes. While Dave stuck to tennis, particularly the Free Swing classes, his wife also enjoyed a mix of Well-Fit Move, Yoga, and Group Active.

Dave, however, could never seem to get a gym routine to stick. For years, his only winter exercise was shoveling snow. That all changed in 2023, when Dave was introduced to pickleball. Eager to give it a try, Dave was instantly hooked and began to play on the indoor tennis/pickleball courts. He fell in love with the game’s physicality, mental challenge, and, perhaps most of all, its social energy. “I’ve met a lot of nice people through this activity,” he said. “I needed to chase and hit a ball, and pickleball was perfect for that, plus a way to make new friends.” The opening of the dedicated MVP Crahen pickleball facility in 2024 was a highlight for Dave, as it provided more opportunities for play on courts designed especially for pickleball.

What excites Dave the most about pickleball at MVP is the joy and laughter that fills the court. “After an amazing winning shot, there’s often an outburst of pure joy and compliments on the shot,” he said. “Everyone is so supportive.” But it’s not just the competitive thrill that draws Dave in—it’s also the joy of sharing the game with his family. Dave regularly books courts to play with his wife, adult kids, and grandkids and loves how pickleball bridges the generational gap. “The grandkids’ speed on the court matches our greater experience, so the games are always fun,” he said.

He also credits the MVP Crahen staff for their professionalism and expertise. “They do a great job assessing each person’s ability and make sure teams are evenly matched,” he said. “They teach the skills and strategies needed to play pickleball at a high level.” 

Now, Dave plays pickleball three times a week, taking part in Pickleball Free Swing, Live Ball, and Ladder League. “The Ladder Leagues fill up fast,” he said. “I mark the registration date and time on my calendar to make sure I don’t miss out.”

Since stepping onto the pickleball court, Dave has found a fitness routine he truly enjoys—and a community he feels a part of. “Winter is so much more enjoyable now,” he said, laughing. “I get a great workout, and I face those cold, gray days with a lot more joy.”