Chatham-Kent Pickleball Tournament: The Chatham-Kent Community Foundation and Chatham-Kent Pickleball Club held their first joint pickleball tournament on Saturday at the St. Clair Healthplex. The event raised awareness and support for the foundation’s charitable work across the community.
Bringing the Community Together
Bill Weaver, a director of the foundation, said the focus wasn’t only on raising money.
“It wasn’t necessarily about the money that was raised, but rather an opportunity to raise awareness about what the foundation does in the community.” – (Bill Weaver)
He noted many residents still don’t know how much the foundation helps.
Supporting Local Charities
Foundation chair Janine Griffore highlighted the importance of community support.
“Your kindness allows us to provide grants that will impact our community.” – (Janine Griffore)
With over $14 million in endowments, the foundation gives around $750,000 each year to more than 85 local groups.
Pickleball Club’s Role
The tournament filled all playing spots in the women’s, men’s, and mixed events.
“The Chatham-Kent Pickleball Club was key to making this event happen.” – (Bill Weaver)
Board member Pete Roelfsen added the club was happy to help.
“Pickleball is the fastest growing sport in the world. Every year it’s doubling.” – (Pete Roelfsen)
He also said some players learned about the foundation for the first time on Saturday.
Ceremonial Serve and Community Spirit
Chatham-Kent Mayor Darrin Canniff kicked off the event with a ceremonial first serve. He was joined by Lefty, the Chatham-Kent Barnstormers’ mascot. Calling it a team effort, Canniff said, “This is a microcosm of what makes Chatham-Kent so amazing.”
Looking Ahead
The tournament showed how sports can unite people for a good cause. The foundation gained new attention, and the club showed how strong its support base is. As pickleball continues to grow, events like this may help solve challenges like finding enough courts for players.
News in Brief: Chatham-Kent Pickleball Tournament
The Chatham-Kent Community Foundation and Pickleball Club hosted a tournament at the St. Clair Healthplex to raise awareness and support for local charities. With all spots filled, the event showed strong community spirit. Mayor Canniff called it a perfect example of groups working together to make Chatham-Kent better.
ALSO READ: Pickleball Tournament Unites Players for Community Impact at Innisbrook