On November 5, the Women of Tri Kappa Gamma at Abilene Christian University will host a pickleball fundraising tournament from 2 to 5 p.m. All campus students are welcome to participate in this event, fostering community and contributing to a commendable cause.
Participants have the option to play individually or register as teams. Payment can be made either at the door or by scanning the QR code featured on the campus flyers.
“Well-Loved”
Ashley Jacobson, a senior majoring in elementary education from Austin, who serves as the Fundraising Service and Chair for Tri Kappa Gamma, told The Optimist, “I wanted to cater to the student body of ACU, and pickleball has gained popularity and is something that’s well-loved within Tri Kappa Gamma.
“I wanted to create something that the student body would be motivated to do and that the girls would be motivated to help plan.”
All proceeds from this event will be directed towards Abilene Palm House, benefiting their sponsored child through Rwanda House, named Joy.
Service-Oriented Projects
Tri Kappa Gamma actively engages in service events with Palm House, involving tasks such as cleaning, organizing carnival games, spending quality time with the children, and undertaking other service-oriented projects.
They are presently involved in an enjoyable Christmas initiative with the children.
Hannah Reynolds, a senior majoring in child and family services from El Paso and the vice president of Tri Kappa Gamma, commented, “Palm House is an overarching term because they have a lot of different ministries that they do, but we partner specifically in their children’s ministry.
“Whenever they see a gap in their ministry, they call us in and have an extra set of hands, and all of us love kids.”
Individual And Team Categories
Prizes will be awarded to first and second-place winners in both individual and team categories.
Jacobson eagerly anticipates the involvement of on-campus businesses, stating, “I’m looking forward to getting to incorporate on-campus business. Part of the baskets that I’m producing is in partnership with the Labyrinth, so I’m excited to promote them just as they promote us.”
The tournament will be held on the pickleball courts adjacent to the Royce and Pam Money Student Recreation and Wellness Center.
Reynolds expressed admiration for Palm House, affirming, “We love Palm House. It’s a great ministry, and we’re so blessed to be working alongside them. And come out to the fundraiser. It’s going to be so much fun, even if you just want to come out and support.”
Picklepalooza
Elsewhere, On Saturday, October 28th, the Chincoteague Island Pickleball community of Virginia came together for their inaugural Picklepalooza, a charitable event held in memory of Leilani Brown, a devoted pickleball enthusiast who tragically passed away on September 11, 2023.
A total of 42 players engaged in a lively round-robin style tournament, utilizing all seven courts available on Chincoteague Island, with participants divided between both indoor and outdoor venues.
Following the competition, a potluck cookout was enjoyed by players and spectators alike.
Raised $3,500
Through generous donations and a raffle, the group successfully raised $3,500. The proceeds were then evenly distributed between Manna Cafe on Chincoteague and Dos Santos in Onley.
The event’s organizers, namely Kathy Michaelian, Andy Hiller, and Kim Haig extend their heartfelt gratitude to the businesses that contributed prizes for the raffle: Tri-Meta Massage, Channel Bass Inn, Black Narrows Brewery, Mallards Restaurant, Team Engage Pickleball, as well as the individuals who generously provided baskets of cheer, T-shirts, artwork, gift certificates, and travel mugs.
Special Acknowledgment
A special acknowledgment is also reserved for Patty McMahon for capturing the special moments through her photography.
Lastly, the organizers express their thanks to all the competitors and donors, whose contributions played an integral role in the event’s resounding success.
This event is a testament to the caring community of Chincoteague Island Pickleball.
