John Burdette

The Cereal City Pickleball Club (CCPC) is proud to recognize John Burdette as our Member of the Quarter! Whether he’s navigating physics concepts in the classroom, guiding a team of aspiring
roboticists, or serving up a pickleball shot, John brings passion, humor, and a whole lot of heart to everything he does.

John moved to Battle Creek in 2007 and has called it home for nearly two decades. Over the years, he’s become an integral part of the community — not just through sports, but also education and robotics.

With a Bachelor’s degree in Education from Central Michigan University and a Master’s in Science Education from Western Michigan University, John now teaches physics and astronomy at the Battle Creek Area Math and Science Center (BCAMSC). But his day doesn’t end when the final bell rings — he’s also the lead robotics coach at Lakeview High School and serves as the de facto director for the entire Lakeview robotics family.

John picked up a paddle just two years ago, and while he jokes that he “could pass for a rookie anytime, ” his enthusiasm for the game is clear. “This is a sport for all people and super accessible,”he says. “Very low barrier to start up and a lot of fun with some exercise. ” He’s especially intrigued by the variety of serving styles in pickleball — a feature that keeps every match fresh and fun.

His introduction to the CCPC came through a racquetball connection with Donnie Speck, and the rest is history. These days, he can be found wielding a yellow-ish paddle with a "T" on it — one he appreciates for occasionally hitting the ball back where he wants it to go.

John is also a proud husband and father. His wife, Amanda, is a musical force in her own right, serving as the assistant director of bands for Marshall Schools, the Cereal City Concert Band, the
Marshall Rotary Band, and more. Their daughter, Nora, is a 5th grader at Lakeview Middle School and clearly following in the footsteps of two highly driven and community-minded parents.

When asked what he wants to be remembered for, John replies,
“Taking on any challenge as an opportunity to grow and learn.
” It’s a fitting reflection for a man who wears many hats and
continues to make an impact in so many areas.

And in true John fashion, he adds a touch of humor with his favorite quote: "It's like déjà vu all over again.” — Yogi Berra

Congratulations, John! The Cereal City Pickleball Club is better because you’re part of it — even if you still haven’t totally figured out what you want to be when you grow up.