2021 Tournament of Champions Highlights

By Kyle Klein

The 2021 Tournament of Champions took place August 18-22 in Brigham City, Utah, and was filled with victories from big names as well as breakthrough wins for some rising stars.

Ben Johns and his partners Simone Jardim and Collin Johns took home titles in Mixed and Men’s Doubles. While Jessie Irvine and Catherine Parenteau both won their first Women’s title, this was Catherine’s first title at TOC. On the Singles side, two new champions were crowned, with JW Johnson and Anna Leigh Waters coming out on top. The Sr. Pro champions this year included Thunder Lopez and John Sperling in the men’s event, Cammy MacGregor and Jennifer Dawson (defending champions in Sr. Women’s Doubles), and Dayne Gingrich with Chris Karges taking home the Sr. Mixed Doubles title.

The event was a huge success with enthusiastic crowds. Even though rain impacted three of the four days, all 1,291 matches were played! This tournament was a USA Pickleball “Golden Ticket” national pre-registration qualifier as well. In total there were 142 golden tickets given to event winners of all skill levels and ages! The 2021 TOC will be remembered for the high level of play and the determination of the event staff who, despite the weather challenges, made sure every player, professional and amateur played their scheduled matches. TOC is a players’ tournament for sure!

Photos by Cody Wolford