Pickleball Tournament in Rumsey Park : The Northern Gila County Fire Union is gearing up for its highly anticipated annual Pickle in the Pines pickleball tournament. Scheduled for Oct. 5 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., this exciting event will take place at Rumsey Park, located at 400 W. McLane Road.
Key Details
- Event Date: October 5
- Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Location: Rumsey Park, 400 W. McLane Road
- Registration Fee: $30 per team
- Format: Double-elimination
This marks the second year for the tournament, and the union is eager to build on the momentum generated in its inaugural year. The objective is not only to host a fun community event but also to raise funds for future activities organized by the union.
Participants can sign up by visiting the union’s Instagram page at IAFF Local 4135. The fee for entering a full team is set at $30, making it accessible for many to join the competition.
“We’re raising money for our union just to be able to plan other events in the future,” stated Sid Pearce, a firefighter and a member of Ladder 4135. Pearce, who is part of a newly formed special events committee, is optimistic about the turnout this year.
Expectations for Participation:
- Last Year’s Teams: Approximately 10 teams participated.
- This Year’s Goal: Ideally, 20 to 40 teams.
- Realistic Expectation: Around 20 teams.
“We have some flyers we’re working to get around town. Information will also be posted on our Facebook page as well,” Pearce added, showcasing the committee’s efforts to spread the word.
The tournament is set to follow a double-elimination format, with participants expected to compete in mixed doubles. However, Pearce mentioned that the final configuration of the field will be finalized on the day of the event.
“It’s pick your team and may the best team win,” he said, highlighting the competitive spirit of the tournament.
Reflecting on last year, Pearce noted that the funds raised were minimal due to the low turnout, which is typical for a startup event. The hope this year is that increased participation will lead to better fundraising results.
“We made a couple hundred overall,” Pearce explained, referencing the challenges faced in their inaugural tournament. Notably, last year’s champions were firefighters Jim Weiss and Jessica Saldana, who emerged victorious in a field of ten teams.
News in Brief : Pickleball Tournament in Rumsey Park
The Northern Gila County Fire Union is set to host the second annual Pickle in the Pines pickleball tournament on Oct. 5 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Rumsey Park. Registration costs $30 per team, and participants can sign up via the union’s Instagram.
This pickleball tournament will feature a double-elimination format, with hopes for increased participation this year compared to last year’s ten teams. Funds raised will support future union events. Last year’s winners were firefighters Jim Weiss and Jessica Saldana.
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