In 2023, Fresno State Freshman Nicholas Wise approached the college's Head Women's Tennis Coach Denise Dy with a proposal.
He wanted to build a collegiate pickleball club with a unique take that worked with students and the local community. Dy saw the potential and agreed to work with Wise to create Bulldog Pickleball.
“In today’s world, where tennis and pickleball often conflict, I am thrilled to be a part of a collaboration that grows both sports and enhances the Fresno State experience for students, staff, and the community.” — Denise Dy, Head Women's Tennis Coach
A year after in 2024, the club added 5 time Grand Slam Champion and Major League Pickleball GOAT Irina Tereschenko as a new Pickleball Coach.
Fresno Community Rallies In Support
With a dream to build a killer pickleball team and join the DUPR collegiate tour, Bulldog Pickleball hosted community events to rally support and fundraise.
They hosted a $1000 Moneyball which drew over 300 players from the community, featuring clinics from Tereschenko and open play for locals.
"Their unparalleled commitment and support of the club’s dream to maximize student engagement and travel nationally on the DUPR Collegiate Tour was proven during the “Founders Scholarship” fundraising event.” — Nicholas Wise, Bulldog Pickleball Club President
In the weeks after, the team hosted more community nights to further engage with Bulldog Pickleball supporters and raise money for the tour.
Bulldog Pickleball Joins the Collegiate Tour
As the semester began, Bulldog Pickleball created weekly sessions for students and quickly grew to over 150 members and the formation of a Travel Team.
After a series of tryouts, 12 were selected to form a group of players looking to compete on the collegiate circuit. Coach Irina Tereschenko trained the team and they headed to Nevada to participate in their first event ever - the DUPR Collegiate Las Vegas Super Regional.
Jake Bower
The team composed of Nicholas Wise, Will Dau, Lizzie Herren, and Mia Ramos had a stellar performance and secured a bid to DUPR Collegiate Nationals. Since then, the team has had continuous successful results and continued to expand the club.
Will Dau, Club Vice-President and a Fresno native, majoring in Business Management, said:
“The culture of collegiate pickleball is extremely competitive and fun. Great rivalries on the court, but making lots of good connections off the court.”
What's Next for Bulldog Pickleball
This spring, Bulldog Pickleball is set to have their most productive semester yet with even more community events on the horizon.
“Students are excited to learn about this sport/activity because it is something fun to try out, keeps them active and has recently grown in popularity. Meeting new people, making connections helps grow this sport and community. Spread the word to friends, family, and colleagues!” — Mia Ramos, a sophomore from Tulare, CA, majoring in Public Health
The travel team is looking to expand their roster in preparation for a busy tournament schedule with their first stop at the DUPR Georgia Collegiate Regional on February 1st.
“The future of Bulldog Pickleball is bright. The goal is to attract and retain members by hosting social events and tournaments, lobbying for new lines/courts, and continuing to provide leadership and mentorship opportunities for club players in the local community.” — Irina Tereschenko
Bulldog Pickleball made sure to mention a special thanks everyone who has supported their growing program, including their sponsors and partners.
You can follow along on their journal by following them on Instagram at @BulldogPickleball and on Facebook @Fresno State Pickleball Club. If you are interested in sponsoring Bulldog Pickleball, please email csufpickleballclub@gmail.com.
