What began as an ordinary morning of pickleball at Udall Park became an extraordinary story of courage, quick thinking, and the power of community.

In September, longtime pickleball player Charlie Corle suffered sudden cardiac arrest while playing at Udall Park. Within moments, fellow players rushed to his aid. Retired emergency room physician Ron Widman began CPR, off-duty paramedic Matt Smith joined the effort, and nurses worked to help restore his breathing. Other players retrieved an automated external defibrillator (AED). After two shocks, Charlie regained consciousness.

Their coordinated response saved his life.

On Friday, October 23, Charlie reunited at Udall Park with the friends and fellow players who came to his rescue. Affectionately known as “Charlie’s Angels,” these everyday heroes were recognized for their extraordinary actions.

Carondelet Health hosted the gathering to demonstrate CPR and emphasize a lifesaving message: anyone can learn to respond to a cardiac emergency, and immediate action can make the difference between life and death. Carondelet Health awarded Life Saving Hero Awards to the people involved. Councilman Paul Cunningham was in attendance to award plaques from the city, which included a pickleball paddle engraved into the plaques.

Hands-on CPR practice at the courts — the skill that made the difference in September.

Charlie is recovering, has returned to playing pickleball, and continues to express his gratitude to the people who saved him. This story is a powerful reminder that Udall Park is more than a place to play pickleball. It is a community where friendships matter, people look out for one another, and ordinary people can accomplish extraordinary things.

Learn CPR. Know how to use an AED.

The lesson is simple: you could save a life. Councilman Paul Cunningham has arranged for the Tucson Fire Department to stage a free CPR certification class for Udall players. Check back for the date and time.

Television and digital coverage

The story received coverage from two Tucson television news organizations, which also published digital versions of their reports:

• KOLD 13 News — Bystanders Save Pickleball Player’s Life with CPR, AED at Udall Park. Covers the rescue, Friday’s recognition ceremony, and the importance of CPR training.
• KGUN 9 News — Pickleball Partners Become ‘Charlie’s Angels’ After Saving a Life. Highlights Charlie’s reunion with his rescuers and Carondelet Health’s CPR awareness efforts.

This story demonstrates the value of the Udall Park community beyond the game itself. The friendships formed on these courts will make a difference when it matters most.