Desert Rat,
Savannah Mundt
By Stacey Gregory
Bonified “desert rat,” Savannah Mundt thrives in the year-round sunshine and heat that defines where she was born and raised. For her, anything below 70 degrees is parka weather, and she wouldn’t have it any other way, which is good considering she’s outside year-round in Tucson managing the Pickleball and Padel programs at the Tucson Racquet & Fitness Club (TRFC).
She first stepped foot in the TRFC when she was six, attending Pee Wee Summer Camp. It was here that Savannah fell in love with tennis, spending her childhood on the courts. Eventually, she joined the club’s team as a summer camp counselor and later returned to lead the club’s thriving pickleball program. For Savannah, Pickleball is more than just a sport—it’s a way to forge meaningful friendships and be part of a supportive, inclusive community that she is excited to share with you.
AT THE CLUB
Her list of things to do in Tucson begins at TRFC. The popular pickleball leagues are open to players of all levels, including non-members. Everyone has a place on the courts, from total beginners to seasoned competitors, and the sense of camaraderie is unmatched anywhere.
“We have open play every day of the week. Since I took over the leagues last year, they’ve grown like crazy,” she said. “What I love about pickleball is that you don’t have to be a pro to join—our leagues have everyone from total beginners to seasoned competitors, and anyone can sign up, even non-members!”
In addition to pickleball, TRFC unveiled two brand-new Padel courts, newly upgraded gym facilities, and many more improvements. All in all, she says the Tucson Racquet Club isn’t just a club—it’s a tradition.
AROUND T-TOWN
“There is so much to do in Tucson, and it is rarely the wrong time of year to do it,” says Savannah. “Being able to be outdoors 98% of the year is incredible, so I try my best to take advantage of that.”
For outdoor adventures, Savannah recommends starting your day with a breathtaking sunrise or sunset hike at Sabino Canyon or Tumamoc Hill. For a change of scenery, she suggests the 45-minute drive up to Mt. Lemmon, where her favorite hike Marshall Gulch Aspen Loop provides a perfect escape into the mountains.
As a Wildcat, she can’t let you miss the electric atmosphere of a University of Arizona gameday. Whether you’re tailgating with the Wildcat faithful or catching the action at the game, it’s an experience she compares to a family cookout with thousands of friends. For sports fans, she also raves about Tucson Roadrunners hockey games.
“I grew up a big hockey fan, which is a little ironic given my strong distaste for the cold. Nonetheless, I’ve been attending hockey games since I was a kid,” she said. “It’s always a blast taking friends to games. Even if you don’t know much about hockey, the action will have you on the edge of your seat.”
SAVANNAH’S TASTES
OF TUCSON
Foodies won’t want to miss her top dining spots. Breakfast is her favorite meal, and Mexican is her favorite food, so Baja Cafe is her go-to for Southwest-inspired takes on morning classics.
“They have the most insane eggs Benedict I’ve ever seen, and anything that puts a southwestern twist on a meal is an automatic yes for me,” she said.
She also loves Indian Twist and Sher-E-Punjab for flavorful, spice-packed Indian dishes, including the Malai Kofta or Chicken Vindaloo (make it SPICY!) and a nice big piece of garlic naan. The Parish tops her list for elevated southern comfort food, thanks to its amazing cocktails and dishes she dreams about, like Black & Blue Brussels and the Drunken Angel Pasta.
And, of course, no visit to Tucson is complete without indulging in the city’s famous Mexican food. Savannah recommends seeking out mom-and-pop spots.
“ I usually go for a giant burrito with all the fixings or some carne asada tacos,” she said. “And margaritas with friends? Always a good idea!”
OUTSIDE OF TUCSON
If you’re looking to venture off the beaten path, Savannah suggests exploring the ghost towns of Southern Arizona, such as Bisbee
and Jerome. These quirky towns boast rich histories and a touch of the supernatural, with spots like the Copper Queen and Jerome Grand Hotel offering a spine-tingling thrill. Savannah makes it a tradition to take a ghost tour every October, combining spooky fun with a unique way to learn more about Arizona’s past.