NFL Stars Take on Pickleball: Charlotte-based NFL quarterbacks Drake Maye and Sam Howell will trade the gridiron for the pickleball court at the Tipsy Pickle sports and entertainment center. The duo will participate in Beat an NFL Quarterback, a charity pickleball event on Wednesday, March 5, where fans will have the opportunity to challenge them in doubles play.
Playing for a Cause
The event will benefit multiple local charities, including:
- The Katie Blessing Foundation – Supporting pediatric behavioral health care.
- The Agnes Weisiger Breast Health Center at Novant – Providing breast cancer screenings and treatment.
- The Go Jen Go Foundation – Offering financial aid to individuals and families battling breast cancer.
Attendees will also have the chance to bid on exclusive signed memorabilia, including jerseys from Peyton Manning, Eli Manning, and Caitlin Clark, with proceeds going to the charities.
Hometown Stars Giving Back
Both Maye and Howell have deep ties to North Carolina. Maye, a Huntersville native, played high school football at Myers Park High School in Charlotte before starring for the University of North Carolina Tar Heels. He was selected third overall in the 2024 NFL Draft by the New England Patriots.
Howell, who preceded Maye at UNC, set school records for passing yards and touchdowns before entering the 2022 NFL Draft, where he was picked in the fifth round. He has since played for the Washington Commanders and Seattle Seahawks. Howell grew up in Union County and attended Sun Valley High School.
More Than Just Pickleball
In addition to the pickleball matches, the event will feature a Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin Competition, with professional golfer Johnson Wagner taking on challengers in golf-based challenges.
Event Details
Date: Wednesday, March 5, 2025
Location: Tipsy Pickle, Camp North End, Charlotte, North Carolina
⏰ Time: 6:00 p.m.
Fans can attend the event, bid on auction items, and even step onto the court for a chance to face two NFL quarterbacks—all while supporting a great cause.
News in Brief: NFL Stars Take on Pickleball
NFL quarterbacks Drake Maye and Sam Howell will play pickleball at Tipsy Pickle in Charlotte for the Beat an NFL Quarterback charity pickleball event on March 5. The event will raise funds for multiple local charities and feature a golf competition with pro golfer Johnson Wagner. Fans can challenge the QBs in doubles play.
ALSO READ: Jessie Irvine in Celebrity Pickleball Bash: Teaming Up with NFL Legend
