Austin Ignite Castos https://austin-ignite.castos.com Austin Ignite is a professional 50+ pickleball team that plays in the National Pickleball League. This is the official Austin Ignite podcast that will include competition weekend wrap-ups and a behind the scenes look at the team. We will talk to team members, sponsors, fans and more! Thu, 30 Jul 2026 02:04:01 +0000 en © 2024 https://episodes.castos.com/664123bf964175-97169432/images/Untitled-design-1-.jpg Austin Ignite https://austin-ignite.castos.com Austin Ignite is a professional 50+ pickleball team that plays in the National Pickleball League. This is the official Austin Ignite podcast that will include competition weekend wrap-ups and a behind the scenes look at the team. We will talk to team members, sponsors, fans and more! Shona Kerr episodic Austin Ignite is a professional 50+ pickleball team that plays in the National Pickleball League. This is the official Austin Ignite podcast that will include competition weekend wrap-ups and a behind the scenes look at the team. We will talk to team members, sponsors, fans and more! Shona Kerr skerr@wesleyan.edu false https://feeds.castos.com/oz84g yes <![CDATA[Austin's 2026 "Many Firsts" Season Opener: New Teams & 40+ Champions]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2026 02:04:01 +0000 Shona Kerr https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/59925/episode/2553306 https://austin-ignite.castos.com/episodes/austins-2026-many-firsts-season-opener-new-teams-40-champions Austin Ignite Weekend Wrap-Up 2026: Season Opener and First Wins

Join us as we recap the thrilling start of the 2026 Austin Ignite season, celebrating team victories, standout performances, and behind-the-scenes moments that brought the league to life. From first tournaments to memorable team camaraderie, this episode captures the spirit of competition and community.

In this episode:
  • Highlights of the debut season and new league additions, including 40-plus and 60-plus divisions
  • Insights from team captains and players on their first league experiences and match performances
  • Behind-the-scenes stories of team bonding, funny moments, and fan support
  • Detailed recaps of matches against Houston, Detroit, LA, and Columbus across all age groups
  • Notable strategies, communication improvements, and teammate dynamics
  • Exciting debut of the undefeated 40s team, making history for Austin Ignite
  • Funniest moments, team cheers, and playful banter from the weekend
Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and overview of Austin Ignite's 2026 season opening
01:00 - Introducing team captains and new league divisions
01:33 - Recap of the grueling schedule and first matches for the 60s team
03:40 - Joe O'Connor shares experiences from his matches and team progress
04:47 - Communication and teamwork lessons from the 60s league debut
06:22 - Team camaraderie and positive support on the sidelines
07:27 - Sideline perspectives and the use of PTL software management tools
09:56 - Celebrating the 50s and 40s teams’ victories and team dinners
11:14 - Big match against Houston: tight battles and impressive support
12:43 - Pre-season ratings versus actual performance and league surprises
14:42 - Detroit match highlights and team resilience
16:38 - Victory against LA and the importance of playing smart
17:20 - Debut and undefeated run of the 40s team - making history
18:50 - Smart plays and high IQ showcased across leagues
20:19 - Cross-age team communication improvements and team bonding stories
22:16 - Fun moments from team celebrations, teammates’ antics, and adult league humor
23:36 - Upcoming matches, focus, and excitement for Dallas next round
36:23 - The victory of the debuting 40s team and reflections on their historic win
37:43 - Personal stories and funny moments, including team cheer antics
40:26 - Recognition of team member contributions, humor, and support
42:12 - Best dressed awards and league gear shoutouts
44:19 - Spontaneous team cheer creation and humorous moments with AI help
46:03 - Anecdotes about team bonding in cars and playful interactions
47:56 - Highlighting the legendary backward team breaker win
48:53 - Closing remarks and upcoming Dallas tournament preview

Resources & Links:
Connect with the team:
]]> false Austin Ignite Weekend Wrap-Up 2026: Season Opener and First Wins

Join us as we recap the thrilling start of the 2026 Austin Ignite season, celebrating team victories, standout performances, and behind-the-scenes moments that brought the league to life. From first tournaments to memorable team camaraderie, this episode captures the spirit of competition and community.

In this episode:
  • Highlights of the debut season and new league additions, including 40-plus and 60-plus divisions
  • Insights from team captains and players on their first league experiences and match performances
  • Behind-the-scenes stories of team bonding, funny moments, and fan support
  • Detailed recaps of matches against Houston, Detroit, LA, and Columbus across all age groups
  • Notable strategies, communication improvements, and teammate dynamics
  • Exciting debut of the undefeated 40s team, making history for Austin Ignite
  • Funniest moments, team cheers, and playful banter from the weekend
Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and overview of Austin Ignite's 2026 season opening
01:00 - Introducing team captains and new league divisions
01:33 - Recap of the grueling schedule and first matches for the 60s team
03:40 - Joe O'Connor shares experiences from his matches and team progress
04:47 - Communication and teamwork lessons from the 60s league debut
06:22 - Team camaraderie and positive support on the sidelines
07:27 - Sideline perspectives and the use of PTL software management tools
09:56 - Celebrating the 50s and 40s teams’ victories and team dinners
11:14 - Big match against Houston: tight battles and impressive support
12:43 - Pre-season ratings versus actual performance and league surprises
14:42 - Detroit match highlights and team resilience
16:38 - Victory against LA and the importance of playing smart
17:20 - Debut and undefeated run of the 40s team - making history
18:50 - Smart plays and high IQ showcased across leagues
20:19 - Cross-age team communication improvements and team bonding stories
22:16 - Fun moments from team celebrations, teammates’ antics, and adult league humor
23:36 - Upcoming matches, focus, and excitement for Dallas next round
36:23 - The victory of the debuting 40s team and reflections on their historic win
37:43 - Personal stories and funny moments, including team cheer antics
40:26 - Recognition of team member contributions, humor, and support
42:12 - Best dressed awards and league gear shoutouts
44:19 - Spontaneous team cheer creation and humorous moments with AI help
46:03 - Anecdotes about team bonding in cars and playful interactions
47:56 - Highlighting the legendary backward team breaker win
48:53 - Closing remarks and upcoming Dallas tournament preview

Resources & Links:
Connect with the team:

Stay tuned for our next episode coming after the Dallas tournament—more stories, more wins, and plenty of fun moments to share!

]]> 00:41:55 <![CDATA[Austin Season Opener: Firsts and 40+ Champions!]]> Thu, 30 Jul 2026 02:02:13 +0000 Shona Kerr https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/59925/episode/2553298 https://austin-ignite.castos.com/episodes/austin-season-opener-firsts-and-40-champions Austin Ignite Weekend Wrap-Up 2026: Season Opener and First Wins

Join us as we recap the thrilling start of the 2026 Austin Ignite season, celebrating team victories, standout performances, and behind-the-scenes moments that brought the league to life. From first tournaments to memorable team camaraderie, this episode captures the spirit of competition and community.

In this episode:
  • Highlights of the debut season and new league additions, including 40-plus and 60-plus divisions
  • Insights from team captains and players on their first league experiences and match performances
  • Behind-the-scenes stories of team bonding, funny moments, and fan support
  • Detailed recaps of matches against Houston, Detroit, LA, and Columbus across all age groups
  • Notable strategies, communication improvements, and teammate dynamics
  • Exciting debut of the undefeated 40s team, making history for Austin Ignite
  • Funniest moments, team cheers, and playful banter from the weekend
Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and overview of Austin Ignite's 2026 season opening
01:00 - Introducing team captains and new league divisions
01:33 - Recap of the grueling schedule and first matches for the 60s team
03:40 - Joe O'Connor shares experiences from his matches and team progress
04:47 - Communication and teamwork lessons from the 60s league debut
06:22 - Team camaraderie and positive support on the sidelines
07:27 - Sideline perspectives and the use of PTL software management tools
09:56 - Celebrating the 50s and 40s teams’ victories and team dinners
11:14 - Big match against Houston: tight battles and impressive support
12:43 - Pre-season ratings versus actual performance and league surprises
14:42 - Detroit match highlights and team resilience
16:38 - Victory against LA and the importance of playing smart
17:20 - Debut and undefeated run of the 40s team - making history
18:50 - Smart plays and high IQ showcased across leagues
20:19 - Cross-age team communication improvements and team bonding stories
22:16 - Fun moments from team celebrations, teammates’ antics, and adult league humor
23:36 - Upcoming matches, focus, and excitement for Dallas next round
36:23 - The victory of the debuting 40s team and reflections on their historic win
37:43 - Personal stories and funny moments, including team cheer antics
40:26 - Recognition of team member contributions, humor, and support
42:12 - Best dressed awards and league gear shoutouts
44:19 - Spontaneous team cheer creation and humorous moments with AI help
46:03 - Anecdotes about team bonding in cars and playful interactions
47:56 - Highlighting the legendary backward team breaker win
48:53 - Closing remarks and upcoming Dallas tournament preview

Resources & Links:
Connect with the team:
]]> false Austin Ignite Weekend Wrap-Up 2026: Season Opener and First Wins

Join us as we recap the thrilling start of the 2026 Austin Ignite season, celebrating team victories, standout performances, and behind-the-scenes moments that brought the league to life. From first tournaments to memorable team camaraderie, this episode captures the spirit of competition and community.

In this episode:
  • Highlights of the debut season and new league additions, including 40-plus and 60-plus divisions
  • Insights from team captains and players on their first league experiences and match performances
  • Behind-the-scenes stories of team bonding, funny moments, and fan support
  • Detailed recaps of matches against Houston, Detroit, LA, and Columbus across all age groups
  • Notable strategies, communication improvements, and teammate dynamics
  • Exciting debut of the undefeated 40s team, making history for Austin Ignite
  • Funniest moments, team cheers, and playful banter from the weekend
Timestamps:

00:00 - Welcome and overview of Austin Ignite's 2026 season opening
01:00 - Introducing team captains and new league divisions
01:33 - Recap of the grueling schedule and first matches for the 60s team
03:40 - Joe O'Connor shares experiences from his matches and team progress
04:47 - Communication and teamwork lessons from the 60s league debut
06:22 - Team camaraderie and positive support on the sidelines
07:27 - Sideline perspectives and the use of PTL software management tools
09:56 - Celebrating the 50s and 40s teams’ victories and team dinners
11:14 - Big match against Houston: tight battles and impressive support
12:43 - Pre-season ratings versus actual performance and league surprises
14:42 - Detroit match highlights and team resilience
16:38 - Victory against LA and the importance of playing smart
17:20 - Debut and undefeated run of the 40s team - making history
18:50 - Smart plays and high IQ showcased across leagues
20:19 - Cross-age team communication improvements and team bonding stories
22:16 - Fun moments from team celebrations, teammates’ antics, and adult league humor
23:36 - Upcoming matches, focus, and excitement for Dallas next round
36:23 - The victory of the debuting 40s team and reflections on their historic win
37:43 - Personal stories and funny moments, including team cheer antics
40:26 - Recognition of team member contributions, humor, and support
42:12 - Best dressed awards and league gear shoutouts
44:19 - Spontaneous team cheer creation and humorous moments with AI help
46:03 - Anecdotes about team bonding in cars and playful interactions
47:56 - Highlighting the legendary backward team breaker win
48:53 - Closing remarks and upcoming Dallas tournament preview

Resources & Links:
Connect with the team:

Stay tuned for our next episode coming after the Dallas tournament—more stories, more wins, and plenty of fun moments to share!

]]> 00:41:55 <![CDATA[Ignite at Home: A Full House in Austin]]> Fri, 15 Aug 2025 21:34:04 +0000 Shona Kerr https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/59925/episode/2112892 https://austin-ignite.castos.com/episodes/ignite-at-home-a-full-house-in-austin Austin Ignite 50+ Pro-Pickleball team competition weekend wrap up. Austin hosted all 12 NPL teams and competed in 4 team battles against Denver, Kansas, Seattle and Coachella. Go Ignite!

]]> full false Austin Ignite 50+ Pro-Pickleball team competition weekend wrap up. Austin hosted all 12 NPL teams and competed in 4 team battles against Denver, Kansas, Seattle and Coachella. Go Ignite!

]]> 00:48:52 <![CDATA[Hearts on Fire: A Weekend of Grit, Glory, and Teambreakers]]> Wed, 16 Jul 2025 16:46:34 +0000 Shona Kerr https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/59925/episode/2090174 https://austin-ignite.castos.com/episodes/hearts-on-fire-a-weekend-of-grit-glory-and-teambrcgd The conversation revolves around the Austin Ignite weekend, highlighting the team's performance, energy during practices, and the excitement of team dinners. The participants discuss individual matches, strategies, and the importance of team dynamics. They reflect on key moments during team breakers and celebrate the contributions of each member, particularly Chip's outstanding performance. The discussion concludes with a focus on the team's growth and anticipation for future matches.

 

Takeaways

  • The team won three matches that went to tiebreakers.
  • Chip had an outstanding performance, going undefeated.
  • Team practices are filled with energy and excitement.
  • Friday night dinners foster team bonding and spirit.
  • Every match is crucial for overall team success.
  • Team dynamics play a significant role in performance.
  • MVP discussions highlight individual contributions.
  • The team is improving and gaining confidence.
  • Key moments in matches can shift momentum.
  • The team spirit is strong and supportive.

Chapters

00:00Austin Ignite Weekend Overview
02:40Team Preparation and Practice Dynamics
05:14The 70s Disco Dinner Experience
08:08Facing Houston: The Rivalry Begins
10:47Denver Match Highlights and Team Breaker
12:25Key Moments and Player Performances
16:01The Pressure of Performance
18:53Team Spirit and Energy
]]> full 3 2 false The conversation revolves around the Austin Ignite weekend, highlighting the team's performance, energy during practices, and the excitement of team dinners. The participants discuss individual matches, strategies, and the importance of team dynamics. They reflect on key moments during team breakers and celebrate the contributions of each member, particularly Chip's outstanding performance. The discussion concludes with a focus on the team's growth and anticipation for future matches.

 

Takeaways

  • The team won three matches that went to tiebreakers.
  • Chip had an outstanding performance, going undefeated.
  • Team practices are filled with energy and excitement.
  • Friday night dinners foster team bonding and spirit.
  • Every match is crucial for overall team success.
  • Team dynamics play a significant role in performance.
  • MVP discussions highlight individual contributions.
  • The team is improving and gaining confidence.
  • Key moments in matches can shift momentum.
  • The team spirit is strong and supportive.

Chapters

00:00Austin Ignite Weekend Overview
02:40Team Preparation and Practice Dynamics
05:14The 70s Disco Dinner Experience
08:08Facing Houston: The Rivalry Begins
10:47Denver Match Highlights and Team Breaker
12:25Key Moments and Player Performances
16:01The Pressure of Performance
18:53Team Spirit and Energy
22:22Building Confidence Through Team Breakers
25:25The Importance of Match Strategy
30:35Turning Points in Matches
36:42The Thrill of Victory and Team Dynamics
36:56Team Dynamics and Emotional Resilience
39:40Overcoming Challenges and Team Spirit
43:10Performance Highlights and Key Matches
49:36Momentum Shifts and Match Strategies
54:10Recognizing Contributions and MVP Discussions
01:02:21*Austin wrap up outro - 6:28:24, 9.43 PM.mp3
]]> 01:02:55 <![CDATA[From Benched to Dream Makers & Winning Teambreakers]]> Fri, 27 Jun 2025 00:24:17 +0000 Shona Kerr https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/59925/episode/2076625 https://austin-ignite.castos.com/episodes/from-benched-to-dream-makers-and-winning-teambreakers Austin Ignite pickleball team weekend wrap up from weekend number two of six hosted by the Boca Surge in Sunrise, FL.

Team members talk about the play and the happenings off the court in an entertaining conversational style.

]]> full 2 2 false Austin Ignite pickleball team weekend wrap up from weekend number two of six hosted by the Boca Surge in Sunrise, FL.

Team members talk about the play and the happenings off the court in an entertaining conversational style.

]]> 00:34:12 <![CDATA[Fired Up: Austin Ignite Splits Opening Weekend in Columbus]]> Fri, 23 May 2025 01:53:42 +0000 Shona Kerr https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/59925/episode/2044853 https://austin-ignite.castos.com/episodes/fired-up-austin-ignite-splits-opening-weekend-in-columbus Joe Paraiso, Marina Anderson, Kitri Boser and Chip James talk through Austin Ignite's team experince in the opening weekend of the 2025 National Pickleball Season. 

]]> full 1 2 false Joe Paraiso, Marina Anderson, Kitri Boser and Chip James talk through Austin Ignite's team experince in the opening weekend of the 2025 National Pickleball Season. 

]]> 00:32:16 <![CDATA[Perfect 4-0 denied by two points]]> Fri, 27 Sep 2024 01:33:01 +0000 Shona Kerr https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/59925/episode/1843522 https://austin-ignite.castos.com/episodes/perfect-4-0-denied-by-two-points Jen Gallwas, Chris Wilton, John Hostetler and Michael Pazourek join team owner, Shona Kerr, in a weekend number 5 wrap up discusion. Hosted in Houston it saw teams playing in two different venues witrh the final league standings up for grabs. Pazorek introduces us to some trivia while Hostetler expounds on his karaoke escapades. Enjoy.

]]> full 5 1 false Jen Gallwas, Chris Wilton, John Hostetler and Michael Pazourek join team owner, Shona Kerr, in a weekend number 5 wrap up discusion. Hosted in Houston it saw teams playing in two different venues witrh the final league standings up for grabs. Pazorek introduces us to some trivia while Hostetler expounds on his karaoke escapades. Enjoy.

]]> 00:33:22 <![CDATA[Weekend No. 4 Wrap up - Kansas City, MO.]]> Fri, 16 Aug 2024 14:50:47 +0000 Shona Kerr https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/59925/episode/1812701 https://austin-ignite.castos.com/episodes/weekend-no-4-wrap-up-kansas-city-mo Austin Takes down number 2 team, Boca Raton, in Satiurday's opening match and pushes number 1 team, Housxton to the limit on Sunday. Team owner, Shona Kerr, hosts fellow team owner Dike Ajiri and Austin's number 1 men's player, Dave Weinbach, as they share their insights from the weekend. They also look ahead to the final weekend of the regular season comoing up in Houston, TX.

]]> full 4 1 false Austin Takes down number 2 team, Boca Raton, in Satiurday's opening match and pushes number 1 team, Housxton to the limit on Sunday. Team owner, Shona Kerr, hosts fellow team owner Dike Ajiri and Austin's number 1 men's player, Dave Weinbach, as they share their insights from the weekend. They also look ahead to the final weekend of the regular season comoing up in Houston, TX.

]]> 00:22:50 <![CDATA[Judge weighs in on Team Ignite's Cincinnati performance]]> Wed, 24 Jul 2024 01:38:36 +0000 Shona Kerr https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/59925/episode/1791397 https://austin-ignite.castos.com/episodes/judge-weighs-in-on-team-ignites-cincinnati-performance We are joined this week by Chris Wilton, a fedaral judge by day and pro pickleball player in his spare time. Chirs talks through his travel adversities to then go unbeaten for the weekend. He talks about the camaraderie of the team and the potential this brings. He answers questions on different aspects of the weekend and tells us his plans and hopes for the rest of the season. Enjoy the ever articulate Chris Wilton!

]]> full 3 1 false We are joined this week by Chris Wilton, a fedaral judge by day and pro pickleball player in his spare time. Chirs talks through his travel adversities to then go unbeaten for the weekend. He talks about the camaraderie of the team and the potential this brings. He answers questions on different aspects of the weekend and tells us his plans and hopes for the rest of the season. Enjoy the ever articulate Chris Wilton!

]]> 00:24:04 <![CDATA[Columbus brings Austin a victory!]]> Sat, 29 Jun 2024 01:57:11 +0000 Shona Kerr https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/59925/episode/1774011 https://austin-ignite.castos.com/episodes/austin-ignite-wrap-up-columbus-oh-june-2223-2024 Connie Burnett joins host Shona Kerr to discuss Austin Ignite's performance in Columbus, OH, June 22nd/23rd, 2024. Austin played Naples, OKC, Seattle and Denver. Enjoy!

]]> full 2 1 false Connie Burnett joins host Shona Kerr to discuss Austin Ignite's performance in Columbus, OH, June 22nd/23rd, 2024. Austin played Naples, OKC, Seattle and Denver. Enjoy!

]]> 00:20:03 <![CDATA[Adversity creates great beginnings]]> Tue, 28 May 2024 17:08:33 +0000 Shona Kerr https://permalink.castos.com/podcast/59925/episode/1751045 https://austin-ignite.castos.com/episodes/adversity-can-create-great-beginnings Austin Ignite team members Daniel Gold, Jen Gallwas and Lance Cowart discuss the competitions and drama of the first National Pickleball League competition weekend in Chicago, May 18th-19th, 2024. While not exactly smooth, the positive take aways for future weekends are real as this team makes their second season campaign. Get a behind the scenes look at what goes into this team.

]]> full 1 1 false Austin Ignite team members Daniel Gold, Jen Gallwas and Lance Cowart discuss the competitions and drama of the first National Pickleball League competition weekend in Chicago, May 18th-19th, 2024. While not exactly smooth, the positive take aways for future weekends are real as this team makes their second season campaign. Get a behind the scenes look at what goes into this team.

]]> 00:23:29