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| SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | OCTOBER 2020 | | SUN LAKES LIFESTYLES | OCTOBER 2020 | 53 53 A recent encounter on court demonstrates the need for club members to be initiated into the arcane depths of local pickle lore and tradition. In past Lifestyles issues we have delved into the stories surrounding the game's origins: Puget Sound fishing boats or a founder's pup. The debate is endless. But there can be no debate about a Sun Lakes pickleball rule that has stood the test of time: The T-berry Rule. "Say what?" you may ask. Allow me to explain. Many years ago, in the infancy of the sport on our courts, back when we shared those courts with POP Tennis, one of our veteran players, Steve Thornberry, promulgated a principle that soon evolved into a rule and eventually solidified into a law. An Iron Law. First known as the Thornberry Rule, those in the know now will simply call "T-berry" and are understood by most, but apparently not all, that the next attempt to score a point is futile. You see, the Rule says that no team will score its winning tally on the first try. Period. Don't fight it, just accept it. Oh, there are rumors of scofflaws out there who cavalierly get to ten and then just stumble on and score number eleven immediately. Like Sasquatch and Nessie, these players are mere legend. In reality, it cannot be disputed that precipitously ending a game on the first possible serve is simply unthinkable. Why bring an end to such a wonderful activity as a game of pickle so prematurely? No, the game must go on… and on. So the next time you buzz-killers have a notion to serve an ace when your team stands on the edge of victory, stop and think! You are about to break the law, have some decency, grow a conscience. And when you flounder trying to get that ultimate point, thank Steve. We are on the cusp of fall and all are looking forward to cooler weather and, hopefully, the end of quarantines. Remember Saturday brunch in the Sandwedge? We'll be getting clinics for beginners going again. Keep evening play in mind as a chance to beat the worst of the late-season heat. Many turn out and have a grand time. See you on the courts! Pickleball Club Just in case: Check with your club contact to confirm meeting place, date, and time.