Meet your new board members

We are excited to welcome two new Board members, Bruce Hancock and Claire Young!

Bruce Hancock

For Bruce Hancock, pickleball is all about helping others find their groove on the court. A five-year player, Bruce was immediately hooked when he picked up a paddle in 2021. Since then, he has been a driving force in the local scene, recently serving as the Pickleball Coordinator for the West Hillhurst Community Association, where he supported a massive program of over 400 members.

"I have a deep passion for coaching and teaching," Bruce says. "There is nothing better than working with beginners, teaching them the fundamentals, and watching their confidence grow as they improve their skills."

For Bruce, joining the Board as the Director of Player Development is the perfect way to blend his love for the game with community spirit. He is dedicated to expanding programming, structuring skill progression, and making sure everyone—from brand-new players to seasoned competitors—has a vibrant, inclusive place to play.

He recently completed his IPTPA Level II Coaching certification and is already eyeing his Certified Rating Specialist (CRS) designation. "I look forward to helping new players get started and strengthening our club's development pathways," he smiles. "I want to make sure the overall player experience at CPC is the best it can be."

When he isn’t coaching or drilling, Bruce brings a wealth of leadership experience from his day job. He currently serves as the Director of Geoscience at Geologic, capping off a stellar 45-year career as a geologist in the oil and gas industry—a background that taught him a thing or two about mentorship and strong leadership.

"I’m excited to take on this role," Bruce says. "I look forward to supporting each of you in your pickleball journey and seeing you thrive on the courts!"

Claire Young

For Claire Young, pickleball is all about community. A five-year player and Calgary Pickleball Club member for four years, Claire is a daily fixture at the Foothills courts during open play.

"I love absolutely everything about it," Claire says. "There is nothing like the feel of the paddle and the snap of the ball. I really love making that great shot I never thought I could!"

For Claire, the scoreboard comes second to the social connection and friendly competitiveness. "Even if my partner and I come up short, I love knowing that we’ve made two players very happy," she smiles. "Most of all, I love the friends I’ve met in this giant pickleball community."

When she isn’t at Foothills, Claire is usually golfing—which she jokes is the "same concept—hard shots, smaller ball, no net."

"I’m an organizer, innovator, and a strong leader. I look forward to contributing."

Claire joins the board after a 45-year career in the Canadian and U.S. tourism industry, where she chaired numerous committees. Now in her fifth year of a rewarding retirement, she is passionate about ensuring all player groups are represented.

"I look forward to meeting each and every one of you," Claire says. "Hope to see you on the courts!"