In a Pickle with the Bears Tournament: The 4th Annual “In a Pickle with the Bears” pickleball tournament will take place from January 11 to 12, 2025, at the Cooper Tennis Complex in Springfield, Missouri. This indoor event will raise funds for the Missouri State University (MSU) softball team and the Ozarks Pickleball Club.
Tournament Details
The tournament will feature indoor pickleball matches with 14 temporary nets on tennis courts. Brackets will be organized for men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles, with a special junior scramble event for kids ages 8-12. All divisions are separated by age and skill level, ensuring players compete against others of similar abilities.
The tournament will use round-robin play with a minimum of four games per team. There will also be additional playoff brackets depending on registration numbers. Players can purchase “foul ball” Mulligans to redo any rally, adding an extra layer of strategy to the competition.
Registration costs $53.50, which covers both events and includes a T-shirt for those who register by January 2, 2025. Bracket times will be posted shortly after the registration deadline on January 8, 2025.
Key Information
- Date: January 11-12, 2025
- Location: Cooper Tennis Complex, Springfield, MO
- Events: Men’s and Women’s Doubles (January 11), Mixed Doubles and Juniors Scramble (January 12)
- Registration Fee: $53.50
- Parking: Free parking available
- Ages: Events for ages 8 and up, with brackets for different age groups
What to Expect
In addition to the competitive play, there will be open play on the evening of January 10, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., for $5 per person (or $10 if not participating in the tournament). All proceeds will benefit the MSU Softball Team and the Ozarks Pickleball Club, with a portion also supporting the junior event.
“We’re excited to host another year of this fun and competitive event,” said the tournament director. “It’s a great way to support MSU Softball and connect with the local pickleball community.”(Tournament Director)
The event offers a great opportunity for local players and pickleball fans to come together for a good cause while enjoying exciting matches and a friendly atmosphere.
Impact
The fundraiser aims to support MSU’s softball team, helping with program costs and future team development. With pickleball’s growing popularity, this tournament also helps raise awareness for the Ozarks Pickleball Club, providing more opportunities for local players of all skill levels.
This annual event is expected to draw competitive players and casual fans alike, offering a unique mix of athleticism, strategy, and community spirit. Participants can look forward to an engaging weekend of pickleball and giving back.
News in Brief: In a Pickle with the Bears Tournament
The 4th Annual “In a Pickle with the Bears” pickleball tournament will take place from January 11-12, 2025, at the Cooper Tennis Complex in Springfield, Missouri. This indoor event will raise funds for Missouri State University’s softball team and the Ozarks Pickleball Club. The tournament will feature men’s and women’s doubles, mixed doubles, and a junior scramble for kids ages 8-12. Players will enjoy round-robin play with the option to purchase Mulligans to redo rallies. Registration costs $53.50 and includes a T-shirt for those who register by January 2, 2025. Proceeds benefit local sports and pickleball initiatives.
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