By Valerie Milano
Palm Springs, California (The Hollywood Times) 3/21/26 – The energy around Desert Legends 2026 continues to build, and one of the most dynamic forces behind its ever-growing programming is Ginny Alexander, the passionate organizer bringing competition, community, and pure fun to the highly anticipated Pickleball Tournament on April 4.
Returning for her second year as tournament director, Ginny is not just running matches, she’s curating an experience that reflects everything Desert Legends stands for: connection, inclusivity, and joy.
“This event is just incredible,” Ginny shared during our interview. “When you get all these women together; events, parties, comedy, music, the pool party, golf, pickleball; what’s not to love?”
This year’s tournament at Paradise Pickleball is already completely sold out, an exciting testament to both the sport’s explosive growth and Ginny’s thoughtful approach to organizing.
“I had so much fun running it last year,” she said. “I’m so excited to bring it back again this year.”
Players will compete across three divisions; novice, intermediate, and advanced; ensuring that everyone, from first timers to seasoned competitors, feels both challenged and comfortable.
“I created divisions so women can play within their skill level,” Ginny explained. “That way it’s competitive, but also fun. You can’t mix advanced with novice; it wouldn’t be fun for anybody.”
The numbers speak for themselves: a surge in novice players this year highlights just how welcoming the sport has become.
“I’ve never seen so many novice players joining for the first time,” she added. “That’s really exciting.”
Intermediate players continue to form the largest group, while advanced competitors bring high-level energy and serious bragging rights.
As both an instructor and event producer, Ginny has a front-row seat to pickleball’s meteoric rise. She credits its accessibility and social nature as key drivers.
“It’s very social, people just enjoy it,” she said. “All walks of life, all ages. And during COVID, people wanted to be outside and active. That’s when pickleball really exploded.”
She also points to its adaptability as a major factor.
“You can set up a court almost anywhere, tennis courts, driveways, asphalt. People are finding places to play everywhere.”
That spirit of inclusivity is at the heart of the Desert Legends tournament, where competition is only part of the story. The real win? Meeting new friends from across the country and building community through play.
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Ginny is also the founder of Endless Pickleball, a collaborative network of instructors and event specialists who bring creativity and flexibility to the sport.
“I kept getting asked not just to teach, but to run events,” she said. “So, I brought together a group of friends, other instructors and organizers, and we created something collaborative. It’s really endless what we can do.”
From college-based programs at Southwestern College, home to some of San Diego’s first college with dedicated pickleball courts, to private instruction and hybrid fitness formats, Ginny and her team are redefining how pickleball is experienced. This is a testament to the growth of pickleball with the younger population as well.
The Desert Legends tournament is not just about gameplay; it’s a full-on experience. Thanks to generous sponsors like Gearbox, Beyond Yoga, and Olivia Travel, participants can expect premium giveaways, raffle prizes, and even the chance to win a trip.
“We’ve got incredible sponsors this year,” Ginny said. “Gearbox is donating paddles, balls, and gear. Olivia Travel is back and giving everyone gifts, and even a chance to win a trip.”
Each player receives sponsor gifts and raffle tickets, while spectators can enjoy a relaxed, festival-like atmosphere.
The venue features a spacious outdoor lawn overlooking the courts, where guests can bring chairs, snacks, and even their dogs.
“It’s very open and relaxed,” she noted. “You can sit, watch the matches, and just enjoy the day.”
Check-in begins at 8:15 AM, with matches starting shortly after 9:00 AM, timed perfectly to beat the desert heat and flow seamlessly into one of Desert Legends’ most beloved traditions: the pool party.
“I love that we’re right before the pool party,” Ginny laughed. “That’s the perfect transition.”
One of her favorite memories from last year perfectly captures the spirit of the event.
“I was a little nervous my first year,” she admitted. “But every single team showed up, and on time! I know some of them were probably a little tired from the night before, but they came ready to play.”
“They met new friends, had fun, and then we sent them right back to the pool party. That’s the Desert Legends way.”
That seamless blend of sport and celebration is exactly what makes this event so special.
For Ginny Alexander, pickleball is more than a game, it’s a vehicle for community, empowerment, and shared experience. And at Desert Legends, that vision comes to life in the most vibrant way possible.
With a sold-out tournament, growing participation, and an atmosphere that welcomes everyone, the Desert Legends Pickleball event is set to be one of the weekend’s standout moments.
So, whether you’re playing, cheering from the sidelines, or simply soaking in the sunshine and camaraderie, one thing is certain, this is where connection meets competition, and everyone wins.
