School tennis star and trauma counselor among victims of Texas plane crash, including pickleball players
The tragic crash of a small plane in Texas claimed the lives of five individuals on board, leaving their pickleball community devastated. The Texas Department of Public Safety identified the victims as Justin Appling, Hayden Dillard, Brooke Skypala, Stacy Hedrick, and Seren Wilson, who were en route to a pickleball tournament in New Braunfels when the Cessna 421C they were traveling in crashed in Texas Hill Country.
Justin Appling, the pilot of the ill-fated aircraft, along with his fellow passengers, were members of the Amarillo Pickleball Club, a close-knit group of athletes. The Amarillo Pickleball Club expressed their sorrow at the loss of their teammates in a heartfelt social media post.
The pickleball community members remembered Hayden Dillard and Justin Appling as not just teammates but as family. Known by his nickname “Glen”, Dillard, who co-owned a manufactured home dealership in Amarillo with Appling, was praised as a genuine and kind-hearted person. Close friend Sarah Lister reminisced about the good times spent with the duo, remembering Appling’s sense of humor and Dillard’s stellar skills on the court. Teamwork was central to their bond, especially with Dillard partnering with Brooke Skypala as a women’s doubles duo. These close relationships within the pickleball community highlighted the unity and camaraderie shared by its members.
Leroy Clifford, another club member who was integral in supporting the victims’ families, spoke of the strong friendship and admiration he had for the deceased individuals. Their journey together to various pickleball tournaments across the country had solidified their bond. Brooke Skypala, appreciated for her wit and athleticism, had also recently achieved a professional milestone by becoming a certified counselor. Her dedication to philanthropy was evident in her organizing of a pickleball camp for underprivileged children from Amarillo Children’s Home.
The tragic accident has deeply affected the Amarillo pickleball community, prompting widespread mourning and support for the victims’ families. Federal authorities have undertaken an investigation to determine the cause of the crash. The organizers of the Cranky Pickle tournament, where the players were headed, canceled the events in light of the devastating news, emphasizing the close-knit nature of the pickleball community. Martin Robertson, a head pro at the Cranky Pickle, shared his heartfelt condolences, expressing the community’s overwhelming sorrow and grief.
As the community comes together to grieve and support the affected families, their hearts remain heavy, but their spirits united. The outpouring of love, prayers, and support serves as a testament to the bonds and friendships shared within the pickleball world. This tragic incident has left a void in the hearts of many, reminding everyone of the fragility of life and the importance of cherishing each moment spent with loved ones.