Cowichan Sportsplex Pickleball Tournament Launch: The Cowichan Sportsplex will host its first-ever pickleball tournament, the 90-Minute Mash-Up, on Saturday, August 2, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. The one-day event in Duncan, British Columbia, will feature men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles matches. The goal is to showcase the Sportsplex’s six new pickleball courts and raise funds for its growing pickleball program.
A New Chapter for the Sportsplex
The Cowichan Sportsplex has long been known for hosting sports like track and field, softball, and field hockey. Now, it’s adding pickleball to its list of activities.
Chris Jaycox, the executive director of the Sportsplex, said he worked with a local pickleball player to bring the idea of a tournament to life.
“We’ve seen first-hand how quickly pickleball has brought new energy and fresh faces to the Sportsplex,” said Chris Jaycox. “Hosting this tournament is a great opportunity to welcome players from across the region, showcasing the new courts and the Sportsplex.”
To help run the event, Chris Jaycox turned to Rachel Dewhurst, a passionate local player.
“It will be the first-ever pickleball tournament at the Sportsplex, which is kind of cool to be a part of,” said Rachel Dewhurst. “Hopefully there will be more local pickleball events like this to look forward to in the future. It’s a sport that is welcoming to a wide-range of ages and abilities, and can be a bit addicting if you give it a try.”
How Pickleball Came to the Sportsplex
In 2024, the Sportsplex transformed the Thunderbox lacrosse box by adding court lines and buying portable nets. At first, players could use the space only two days a week. Over the summer, that expanded to four days weekly due to growing interest.
Pickleball is known as the fastest-growing sport in North America. Many players in the Cowichan Valley already enjoy the sport at different local courts.
Tournament Details and Community Involvement
The 90-Minute Mash-Up tournament is open to players in four categories: men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles. Entry is $50 per team per event, and spots are filling up fast. Some waitlists have already started. All proceeds will go toward supporting the Sportsplex’s pickleball programming.
The event is free for spectators, who are invited to watch, cheer, and maybe try the game themselves.
News in Brief: Cowichan Sportsplex Pickleball Tournament Launch
The Cowichan Sportsplex will hold its first pickleball tournament, the 90-Minute Mash-Up, on August 2, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. in Duncan, B.C. The event aims to raise funds for the Sportsplex’s pickleball program and showcase the six new courts. Spectators are welcome.
ALSO READ: Rotary Club Launches Pickleball Tournament to Power Youth Mental Health and Global Change