The 2025 Aaron Gifford Benefit Tournament will be held on April 5-6, 2025. This USSP circuit event will honor Aaron Gifford, a veteran who lost his life to PTSD. The tournament will raise funds to support veterans suffering from PTSD, with registration set at $70.
About the Tournament
The tournament will feature outdoor play on 24 hard courts. Events include men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles, as well as men’s and women’s singles. The format will be round-robin with playoffs for larger brackets, ensuring players are guaranteed at least three matches per event.
No membership is required to register, making it accessible to all pickleball players. Registration fees include all events, and USSP members will receive a $10 discount. Participants can join USSP for $20 per year, with multi-year discounts available.
Remembering Aaron Gifford
CeCe Hunter, the tournament founder and Aaron’s mother, shared that Aaron served in the 3rd Infantry with the US Army during the first invasion of Iraq. After returning, he struggled with PTSD, which ultimately claimed his life. Aaron developed a passion for pickleball, participating in tournaments across New Mexico.
Hunter, along with Aaron’s sister Kiley and friends, established a non-profit, The Aaron Gifford Pickleball Benefit, to raise awareness and support veterans with PTSD. The tournament has raised over $100,000 for causes like Mesilla Valley Community of Hope Veteran’s Housing Program and Mission 22, which addresses veteran suicide.
Significance of the Event
This pickleball tournament is not just about sports; it is a heartfelt effort to honor veterans and raise awareness about PTSD. The funds raised will directly benefit programs supporting veterans in need. By participating, players contribute to a meaningful cause that helps those who have served the country.
News in Brief: 2025 Aaron Gifford Benefit Tournament
The 2025 Aaron Gifford Benefit Tournament will take place April 5-6, 2025, raising funds for veterans with PTSD. The event features multiple formats and guarantees at least three matches per player. Registration costs $70, with discounts available for USSP members. Support for veterans is the tournament’s main goal.
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