Pickleball Match Ends in Assault in St. Augustine

A recent pickleball match in St. Augustine, Florida, turned violent, leaving a man injured and a woman facing criminal charges. The confrontation escalated when Michele Bannister, 47, allegedly struck another player with her pickleball paddle.

Bannister claims she acted in self-defense during an argument. However, witnesses and the victim reported that Bannister’s son was not in any danger at the time. The disagreement began on May 31 over who should retrieve a ball, ultimately leading to a physical altercation.

The man involved indicated that Bannister’s son made a comment post-match, prompting her involvement. Deputies reported that Bannister struck the man multiple times on the head with her paddle. This left the victim with several bleeding cuts on his face.

Bannister, who works as an orthopedic nurse, now faces charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. She is also charged with giving false identification to law enforcement, after misleading deputies with a false name.

Pam Hatch, known as Pickleball Pam and the North Florida Ambassador for USA Pickleball, witnessed the event. Describing the incident, Hatch mentioned that Bannister struck the victim about six times with the paddle. Hatch indicated that Bannister was visibly upset during the altercation.

Hatch assisted the bleeding victim, noting the severity of the injuries. Blood was abundant, requiring extensive cleanup efforts.