OPA-APO

April 2025

Dear OPA-APO Members,

On behalf of the Board of Directors of the OPA-APO we are very pleased to announce that we have two winners for our Volunteer Award of Excellence for 2025. Congratulations to our deserving recipients - Lynette Teal and Diana Honkanen!

The response to our call for nominations was overwhelming - a huge thank you to all who took the time to submit their choices for the deserving volunteers. Our volunteers contribute their time, energy, and effort throughout the season and those contributions serve to make an immense impact to our member experience both on and off the courts.

We will be formally recognizing our two recipients at our May 2 party.

Here is what our nominators had to say:

Lynette Teal

 

Lynette has been a dedicated League Coordinator for many years. She is always welcoming to new and existing league players, she is pleasant, friendly and is a dedicated team player and a positive ambassador for the OPA. She deserves recognition for her hard work, energy, dedication and support of the game. She is always willing to learn and consistently encourages her partners and opponents to play their best game.

She is punctual and arrives 15-20 minutes before the game time to set up nets. She is constantly reminding all members regarding game safety which is the most important factor for everyone to enjoy the game. She treats all players with respect and sometimes talks about the new pickleball rules so that we have a better understanding of them. Further, she is friendly with all players, knows the rules and is quick to settle any dispute that may arise. She is an excellent coordinator and as a volunteer she is willing to contribute to helping other players With that, Lynette has earned my greatest respect.

She puts her heart and soul into running the leagues, and keeps us in the loop about upcoming tournaments, and clinics. She is accessible by text and email and responds promptly. Overall Lynette is an asset to the OPA and deserves this award.

Diana Honkanen



I have played in several leagues that Diana has coordinated. She is always relaxed, friendly and flexible, putting the players at ease. Diana’s kind approach adds to the pleasure of participating in OPA events.

Diana has been volunteering for OPA for many years. She coordinates leagues, helps with tournaments, and helps with various events like the anniversary party. She is a steadfast supporter, highly engaged and ensures she represents OPA with a positive and generous attitude directed toward all - beginner to advanced players.

She makes me as a member feel good, and to see the broader perspective with the game, and this enhances my experience. She does this naturally without complaint or hesitation and ensures safety and fun are at the top of the agenda.

Diana is selfless, and very dedicated to ensuring the members have a great experience. She is very deserving of this award. Congratulations to Lynette & Diana and thank you for all you do!

OPA-APO

Spring Session Dates: March 17, 2025 - May 30, 2025
(Note: Hintonburg and Rideau Hub only run until the end of April)

The OPA-APO is NOT accepting new members at this time as we just do not have enough venues to serve additional members. We are always seeking new venues - please advise us if you have any leads.

We do not keep a wait list; however, you are welcome to check back periodically to see if memberships become available.

We do not run programming in the summer.

If you'd like to be added to our mailing list, please email general@ottawapickleballassociation.com

OPA-APO Board