The Spire

Mackenzie Hughes ’25

Baller

Pickler: “Good morning and thanks for tuning into the 175th Annual Intramural Pickleball Tournament hosted by IMLeagures here at Holy Cross on the 24th of February. My name is Carry Anne Pickler, 2008 Pickleball tournament finalist whose every comment will be driven with a grudge, and I will be your radio announcer for today’s pre-game show. I’d like to give a special shout-out to the Jo for putting on this event. Joining me for the broadcast is expert panelist, Kylie Cornichon. How are ya’ Kylie?”

Cornichon: “I’m feeling great this morning, Carry Anne. We’ve got a great lineup for today and I’m really excited to see what these teams have got in store for us.”

Pickler: “That’s pickle-iffic to hear, bud. What can we expect to see from them today?”

Cornichon: “Well the Phila-dill-fia Flyers were looking really strong in warmups. The captain is absolutely explosive and has that pickleball flying with velocity.”

Pickler: “I saw some of his highlights from last season, they were quite jarring! What do you have to say about the Pickle Ricks?”

Cornichon: “That team has a great ability to generate offense and find the pockets.”

Pickler: “I didn’t realize pickleball had an offense or defense for that matter.”

Cornichon: “My pick-le for today are the Kosher dills. They faced a few setbacks in the semifinals but luckily relished in the free-agent draft.”

Pickler: “I remember watching those games… matches… sets? I’m glad that they could overcome such harrowing dill-emmas. I’d say the Skelly Teddies will take home that trophy today. They were quite a big dill in the 2023 tournament last year. However, if they don’t tap into that team mentality again, they’ll be in quite a pickle in the first round against the Wack Daniels. Let’s also not forget to count out Turner. He may be a solo player in a 2×2 tournament, but it’s what is on the inside that matters.”

Cornichon: “I’m not exactly sure if I agree with that, Carry Anne.”

Pickler: “Well folks, that’s all we have for today’s pregame show. 

Stay tuned for later when we invite some of the Pickleballers on for post-game commentary.” 

This broadcast is sponsored by The National Pickleball Association of America and Holy Cross Intramurals

Copyedited by Sophia Mariani