Pickleball Fun and Philanthropy: Highlights from the 2024 Holiday Pickleball Classic

The 2024 Holiday Pickleball Classic took place on December 28-29 at the Highlands Sports Complex, marking its inaugural tournament. This event was organized by the Ohio Valley Pickleball Club in collaboration with WVU Medicine. The tournament aimed to raise funds for the new WVU Medicine Northern Region Outpatient Center, which is set to open in 2025.

A Growing Sport in the Ohio Valley

Pickleball, the fastest-growing sport in America, attracted 100 participants from West Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Maryland. Competitors participated in men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles tournaments.

J.T. Thomas, Vice President of the Ohio Valley Pickleball Club, highlighted the importance of the event, stating,

“You know you have pickleball which is a great attraction, but you couldn’t think of a better cause than for WVU Medicine Wheeling Hospital.” – (J.T. Thomas)

Community Engagement and Fun

Participants expressed enthusiasm for the tournament, which offered a friendly and supportive environment. Lorenzo Donzella shared his experience.

“I played with my dad yesterday, and I’m playing with an older lady today, and were happy to be here and glad it’s going to a great cause.” – (Lorenzo Donzella)

Another participant, Jodi Essey, reflected on her transition from tennis to pickleball, noting,

“I was a former tennis player so i just thought this would be fun, little less competitive than tennis for me. I was a singles play and only playing doubles now.” – (Jodi Essey)

Supporting Pediatric Care

The funds raised from the tournament will contribute to the development of the outpatient center, which will serve as a one-stop shop for pediatric care. Winners of each tournament received trophies, adding a competitive spirit to the event.

“It’s been a great few days for the Classic, with hopes of organizing more events like this to benefit the community. All have gone very smoothly, and we’ve had a great response, that we’ve done things well enough that if we do this again well get even a greater response.” – (Thomas)

Opportunities for New Players

For those who missed the Classic, the Ohio Valley Pickleball Club offers clinics for newcomers and opportunities to play with other members at the complex. Thomas encourages everyone to join in, saying,

“We have anybody from 18 years old all the way up to in the 70s so it’s a sport that anybody can play, and most people love.” – (Thomas)

The club aims to foster a welcoming community for all skill levels.

Looking Ahead

The Holiday Pickleball Classic not only provided an exciting sports event but also supported a vital cause in the community. With plans for future tournaments, the Ohio Valley Pickleball Club hopes to continue raising funds and engaging more residents in this popular sport.

News in Brief: 2024 Holiday Pickleball Classic