“Paint The Courts Blue,” a pickleball tournament organized by Melissa Helphrey, took place on Saturday, April 6, in Tallahassee, Florida. The event brought players and families together to raise awareness for autism during Autism Acceptance Month.
A Sport with a Purpose
Held at a local park, the event welcomed players of all levels. Participants wore blue to show support and competed in fun, friendly matches. The tournament was designed to be inclusive and family-friendly, making it easy for everyone to join in.
Courts were decorated with blue accents to match the theme. Spectators cheered from the sidelines as teams played throughout the day.
Bringing Awareness Through Action
The event aimed to highlight autism awareness and create a supportive space for families affected by autism. “We’re here to bring the community together and spread awareness in a fun and healthy way,” said organizer Melissa Helphrey.
Volunteers helped run games, direct players, and keep the event running smoothly. Blue shirts and other awareness items were available at the site. “We want people to know they’re not alone,” Helphrey added. “Events like this help create a sense of unity.”
A Growing Tradition
This tournament is part of a larger push to connect community events with meaningful causes. Organizers hope to make “Paint The Courts Blue” an annual event in Tallahassee.
Each match played wasn’t just for fun—it was also a reminder of the importance of inclusion and understanding.
Lasting Impact
By combining pickleball with purpose, “Paint The Courts Blue” showed how sports can bring people together for a cause. The event helped raise awareness and offered a space for support and connection. Future tournaments may bring in more players and partners, helping the message reach even further.
News in Brief: Paint The Courts Blue
“Paint The Courts Blue” took place in Tallahassee on April 6. Organized by Melissa Helphrey, the pickleball tournament raised autism awareness during Autism Acceptance Month. The event welcomed players of all skill levels and brought the community together for a day of fun, support, and meaningful conversation.
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