From Minnesota to Naples, the Whalen family continues their record-breaking legacy, capturing medals—and hearts—across three generations.
Introduction:
At the 2025 US Open Pickleball Championships in Naples, Florida, a story of legacy, love, and fierce competition unfolded once again. The Whalen family, hailing from Minnesota, returned to the tournament in unforgettable fashion, clinching an astonishing 11 medals—with three generations represented on the podium. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, the Whalens proved that pickleball isn't just a pastime—it's a family tradition.
A Legacy in Motion
What began as a shared family interest has evolved into a national sensation. The Whalen family, often seen cheering each other on from the sidelines or battling side by side on the courts, brought a record-setting spirit to the 2025 US Open. Their presence wasn’t just impressive—it was historic.
“Hey, Rusty from Pickleball Channel here,” began the video that’s now making rounds in the pickleball community. Standing shoulder to shoulder, the Whalen family—led by matriarch Marne Whalen—introduced themselves not just as players, but as champions across multiple divisions and age brackets.
Meet the Medalists
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Jenny Johnson (daughter): With her sister Megan Kenson, Jenny secured gold in Women’s Doubles Open 40-49 on Monday and followed it with a silver in Mixed Open on Tuesday. Her calm presence and steady power continue to set the tone for family excellence.
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Megan Kenson (daughter): A force on the court, Megan added to the family tally with gold in Mixed 4.5 and a silver in Singles 45+. She shared in Jenny’s doubles gold, making the sibling duo one of the most dominant pairs in the division.
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Voli Johnson (granddaughter): The youngest of the clan, Voli exploded onto the junior circuit with silver in Girls Junior Doubles, silver in Junior Singles, and bronze in Mixed Juniors. Perhaps most impressively, she won her first professional match in Women's Singles—hinting at a bright future on the pro tour.
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Marne Whalen (grandmother): The 70s bracket doesn’t get much tougher than this, but Marne battled her way to silver in Women’s Singles (75-79), silver in Women’s Doubles, and bronze in Mixed 40+—proving age is just a number when determination runs deep.
Together, the Whalens amassed 11 medals, building on last year’s already-impressive haul of 10. The family’s collective drive and teamwork were impossible to miss, making them a standout not only for their talent but for the story they represent.
More Than a Tournament
Despite the medals and the accolades, the Whalens say it’s not just about the wins. “It’s so much fun for me to watch my daughters and my granddaughter,” Marne said, her voice full of emotion. “It couldn’t be a more special occasion for us.”
Jenny echoed the sentiment: “It’s amazing to be able to compete with my family and be part of something this big. The venue, the people—it’s unmatched.”
For Voli, now transitioning from junior to pro, the US Open is both a proving ground and a celebration: “The energy is incredible, and having my family here makes it even better. It’s not just a tournament—it’s the biggest pickleball party of the year.”
From Minnesota with Love
Traveling from Minnesota each year isn’t easy, but for the Whalens, missing the US Open is not an option. “Absolutely not. Probably not. Definitely not. No way,” each of them said when asked if they'd ever consider skipping the event.
Their unwavering presence has become part of the Open’s identity. In a sport built on community, accessibility, and heart, few families embody the pickleball spirit like the Whalens.
In-Depth Summary:
The Whalen family’s 2025 US Open campaign stands as a defining moment in pickleball history. With three generations competing—and medaling—the family showcased not only elite skill but also the enduring power of intergenerational support and passion. Their 11-medal haul included standout performances in both age-appropriate and open/pro divisions, proving that excellence runs in their blood.
Jenny and Megan continued to dominate their age brackets, setting the standard for synergy and competitive resilience. Young Voli emerged as a breakout star, not just in junior divisions but also with her first pro win, hinting at a future star in the making. And at the heart of it all was Marne, a grandmother whose medals—and presence—symbolize the family’s deep roots and unyielding spirit.
For the Whalens, the US Open is more than a competition—it’s a reunion, a tradition, and a testament to the power of family. Whether it's on center court or cheering from the sidelines, their story is one of unity, legacy, and love—making them true champions in every sense.
“Generations Groove” (v2)
(Soft finger-picking begins, then gentle vocal humming “mmmm-ahhh, mmmm-ahhh”)
Verse 1 (Folk)
In Minnesota’s morning glow, the Whalens rise so slow,
Three generations bound by hearts, where pickle dreams will grow.
Marne’s steady gaze, her paddle sings, lifetime tales in every swing,
Jenny’s laughter rings like gold, Megan’s fire keeps them whole.
Verse 2 (Jazzy)
Snap-snap, brushed snare with upright bass
Smooth like late-night smoke, gliding ‘cross the courts we go,
Snap of string, a cymbal’s kiss—family harmony in flow.
Velvet grooves, those silver strands, medals sparkle in our hands,
Cool cats cheer, the spotlight’s sheen, three-generation dream machine.
Verse 3 (Rap: ’90s Style)
Yo, three generations deep, yeah, we bringing the heat,
From grandma Marne’s silver spin to Voli’s junior beat.
Eleven medals shining bright, glittering under Naples lights,
Jenny-Megan doubles tight—droppin’ bombs like dynamite.
Boom-bap rhythm in our veins, pickleball’s the name of the game,
Legacy’s our claim to fame, Whalen fam will stake the claim.
Verse 4 (Folk with Jazzy Lilt)
(Guitar strums more pronounced; soft brushes enter)
Under Florida skies we stand, paddle drums in every hand,
The echoes of those cheering bands remind us of our plan.
From daughters’ dreams to grandkid’s fire, each rally lifts us higher,
Roots run deep and souls aspire—family’s pulse is our choir.
Bridge (Jazzy Scat Over Finger-Picking)
“Bee-bop da-do wee-bop, mmm-ba dee, pluck-pluck-pluck”
Rhythmic whispers of the past, dancing in the summer’s cast.
Verse 5 (Rap with Folk Cadence)
Passing down that paddle pride, we ride the tide side by side,
Yawns of dawn to court-light nights, family’s bond in every fight.
Talkin’ love, talkin’ grit, generations never quit,
From 40s to 70s grit—multigold in every hit.
Outro (Folk)
(Guitar slows; humming returns)
Mmmm-ahhh, the echoes fade, but memories won’t abate,
Whalen song in hearts is laid—pickle love will never fade.
Behind the Scenes: Crafting “Generations Groove”
“Generations Groove” emerged from the vibrant tapestry of the Whalen family’s 2025 US Open Pickleball Championships story. To capture the layered legacy—grandmother, mother, and granddaughter—all competing and medaling together, the song blends three distinct musical strands: the earthy warmth of folk, the smooth sophistication of jazz, and the bold energy of ’90s rap.
Initial Inspiration: The soft finger-picking intro and gentle humming set a reflective mood, echoing the family’s roots in Minnesota and the dawn of each competitive day. Folk elements underscore the narrative verses, painting scenes of tradition and togetherness.
Jazzy Interlude: The jazzy sections—complete with brushed drums and upright bass—symbolize the polished, gleaming medals and the cool confidence the Whalens exhibit under pressure. Scat vocals in the bridge nod to spontaneity and joy, much like the unpredictable flow of pickleball rallies.
’90s Rap Flair: Channeling classic boom-bap rhythms, the rap verses inject playful bravado reminiscent of corner-store cyphers. This style highlights the family’s competitive drive and the milestone of an eleven-medal haul, contrasting the gentle folk storytelling with rhythmic punchlines.
Blending Styles: By weaving folk’s narrative intimacy with jazz’s harmonic richness and rap’s rhythm-driven urgency, the song mirrors the Whalens’ multi-generational collaboration—each generation bringing its own flavor yet united in one harmonious groove.
The result: a 300+ word homage that not only celebrates athletic achievement but also underscores how family legacy, musical diversity, and sporting passion can intersect in one unforgettable anthem.
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