Anna Leigh Waters Removed from Paddletek Website, Community Responds

Paddletek updated its website on December 28, 2025, removing Anna Leigh Waters name and imagery from team listings and product pages, while continuing to list the Bantam ALW C paddle for purchase. Waters is one of the sport most visible female players, and the removal of her branding from the company site was immediately noticed across social media and community forums.

The company left the Bantam ALW C in active inventory, which means the paddle itself remains available even as the associated imagery and roster placement were pulled. That separation of product availability and athlete branding has created uncertainty about whether Waters is simply between deals or preparing to align with another manufacturer. Industry chatter has circulated JOOLA as a possible next partner, but no official confirmation has been announced. Requests for comment have been made to Paddletek and to Waters representatives.

For amateur players who follow professional equipment trends, roster and sponsorship shifts are more than headline news. Equipment availability, discount programs, and limited edition runs can change quickly when a player moves. Signature model continuity can vary, so verify model codes and production details before making a purchase if branding matters to you. Check product specifications, serial numbers, and warranty information to confirm you are buying the paddle you intend to own.

Local clubs and retailers will likely feel the ripple effects. Watch for promotional changes, clearance sales, or new signature offerings in the weeks after a roster update. If you prefer to try gear before buying, visit a demo day or borrow a paddle at your next practice session to compare feel and performance rather than relying solely on a name or image.

This development is also a reminder that professional roster moves can presage broader marketing and distribution shifts across the sport. Monitor official accounts and retailer listings for follow up announcements, and track stock levels if you are targeting a specific model or a classifieds deal. I will continue to follow this story and report developments that affect gear choices and community buying options.