Kentucky’s Murray Pickleball Association: In the heart of Murray, on a sunny weekend in July, the excitement wasn’t just about the competition; it was about community. The Murray Pickleball Association (MPA) gathered players and fans alike for their summer tournament on July 12 and 13 at the basketball courts of Chestnut Park, where the energy was noticeable. Yet, im between the serves and volleys, a new mission was unfolding.
A Community’s Call to Action
Before the matches began, Murray Pickleball Association President Tim Thurmond and Vice President Randy Herndon took center stage, sharing ambitious plans that went far beyond the weekend’s festivities. They launched an urgent fundraising campaign aimed at raising $100,000 by Labor Day to construct a dedicated pickleball facility in Central Park. We’re playing on basketball courts because, right now, we simply don’t have our own space, Herndon stated, highlighting the growing demand for pickleball in the area.
With construction slated to kick off in the fall, the need for funds is pressing. Thurmond highlighted that the project relies solely on private donations, presenting a Community-driven initiative sparked by local enthusiasm.
“We are playing on the basketball courts because we don’t have a facility at the present.”
“We are looking for individuals who love pickleball or even those who don’t play but want to help out. We need them to dig down and help us with this push”-( Herndon)
Every Dollar Counts
The call to action was clear: contributions of $25, $50, or $100 could significantly impact the project.“We are asking individuals to drop $25, $50, $100 or whatever their heart desires. If everyone contributes, it adds up and it will help us complete this new complex.” said Thurmond. Thurmond asserted, painting a hopeful picture of community solidarity.
For those ready to contribute, the process is straightforward. Donations can be made through the MPA website, via checks sent directly to the association, or through a dedicated GoFundMe campaign for the complex. “Remember, we’re a 501(c)(3), so every donation is tax-deductible,” Thurmond reminded supporters.
A Personal Touch
Herndon didn’t just make a plea; he led by example. “To hit our $100,000 goal, we need to dig deep,” he said earnestly. He and his wife have committed to donating $2,500, but with a twist: they won’t make their contribution until another $2,500 is raised, creating an immediate incentive for others to join the cause.
The urgency of this mission resonated throughout the event, with a promotional video circulating on the MPA’s Facebook page, rallying support from both players and spectators. “Hey Murray, let’s ‘paddle up’ and make this happen!” Thurmond encouraged, his enthusiasm infectious.
As matches were played under the summer sun, the excitement was not just for the games being contested but for the future of pickleball in Murray. With community backing and a shared vision, the MPA is not just aiming to raise funds; they’re cultivating a legacy that promises to enrich local sports culture for generations to come. The challenge is set, and now it’s time for Murray to rally together, proving that when it comes to community spirit, nothing is out of reach.
News in Brief: Kentucky’s Murray Pickleball Association
During the July 12-13 weekend, the Murray Pickleball Association (MPA) hosted an exciting summer tournament at Chestnut Park, promoting a strong sense of community. Murray Pickleball Association President Tim Thurmond and Vice President Randy Herndon launched an urgent fundraising campaign to raise $100,000 by Labor Day for a dedicated pickleball facility in Central Park. With construction set to begin in the fall, the project relies entirely on private donations. They encouraged contributions of $25, $50, or $100, highlighting that every dollar counts. Herndon pledged $2,500 but will match contributions only after raising an initial $2,500. The community’s enthusiasm is noticeable, highlighting a shared vision for enriching Murray’s sports culture for years to come.
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