The first Pickleball European Championships (November 23-24, 2024, in Southampton, England) concluded on Sunday, November 24, with host country England securing the overall victory. England topped the medal table after six events (Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, Mixed Doubles, Men’s Doubles 50+, Women’s Doubles 50+, Mixed Doubles 50+), followed by Spain in second place and Italy in third. Austria not only faced some of the strongest teams in Europe at this historic event but also gained valuable experience that will shape the team for years to come. In Men’s Doubles, Austria’s Stephen Preissler and Thomas Knapp made a notable impression by advancing to the quarterfinals.
Link: Facebook photo album
Strong Opponents and Outstanding Performances
Austria competed in one of the toughest groups of the tournament. Alongside eventual champion England and third-place finisher Italy, Austria faced Serbia (winners of the Women’s Doubles 50+), Bulgaria, and the Czech Republic. Despite the challenging competition, Stephen Preissler and Thomas Knapp delivered a standout performance. The duo advanced to the quarterfinals after eliminating the Italian team in the group stage. In the quarterfinals, they faced eventual bronze medalists Germany in a thrilling match, narrowly losing 15:17 after missing seven match points.
Although they missed out on the semifinals, Preissler and Knapp proved they belong among Europe’s elite. Unfortunately, the other Austrian pairings in this “group of death” were unable to advance to the knockout stage. Nevertheless, the team gained invaluable experience and built lasting international friendships.
Preissler and Knapp had already triumphed at a pre tournament held at the same venue, winning the highest competition category by defeating the Italian duo Marcello Bettinelli and Ernesto Gianluca Russo in the final. Additionally, Thomas Knapp secured a Mixed Doubles title in the 4.0 category with his partner Ashley Simpson.
Link: Facebook photo album Pre EPC tournament
Team Austria Lineup
18+ Team:
- Ashley Simpson, Sigrid Preissler, Jasmin Primus
- Stephen Preissler, Thomas Knapp, Peter Robic
50+ Team:
- Liz Weare, Sandra Pribl, Jessie Dai
- Helmut Hübsch, Yang Dai
Voices from the European Championships
Peter Robic, President of the Pickleball Federation Austria, expressed pride in the team’s achievements:
“We are very proud that Austria was represented at the first European Championships. Compliments to the team, of which I was also proud to be a part. Everyone prioritized the team above themselves and never sought personal recognition. The mutual support and appreciation within the team made this event truly special. I am very grateful to my board colleagues Alex Rieck, Heide Forman and Ashley Simpson for their work before and during the event. Without you, none of this would have been possible! Thanks also to Lukas Biechelhuber from highQ solutions for the sponsorship.”
Liz Weare (50+ team) praised the exceptional team spirit:
“It was a wonderful experience for us all from every point of view! I’ve been a member of many teams across various sports, and I can safely say that the Austrian pickleball team spirit was simply magnificent!”
Stephen Preissler, one of the quarterfinal heroes, reflected:
“I am very proud to have represented Austria here. Thomas and I showed that we can compete at the top level in Europe.”
Austria’s 2024 Singles Champion Jasmin Primus highlighted the unique atmosphere:
“It was incredibly special to compete alongside this team. We forged many friendships, learned so much, and are now more motivated than ever.”
Success Beyond the Sport
The Austrian national team’s performance did not go unnoticed in the media. Kronen Zeitung, Austria’s largest daily newspaper, reported on the team’s participation, highlighting the rapid growth of Pickleball in Austria and its increasing recognition.
(Link to the article to follow.)
Looking Ahead
The first European Championships were a significant milestone for Austria’s Pickleball team. The team spirit, athletic achievements, and international connections give hope for a bright future. With this experience and newfound confidence, the Pickleball Federation Austria looks forward to tackling upcoming challenges and further advancing the sport in Austria.
