Kenny Loggins is hosting a sold-out pickleball tournament called “Pickleball in the Danger Zone” from May 2 to May 5 at the Santa Barbara Municipal Pickleball Courts. The event will raise money for Unity Shoppe to help wildfire victims and local families in need.
A New Way to Give Back
Loggins and his wife, Lisa, created the event to mix fun and fundraising. Instead of a concert, Loggins chose a more playful option.
“We thought this would be a great way to do a fundraiser for the Unity Shoppe,” said Loggins, who has supported the non-profit for years.
“Instead of doing a concert or something like that, which I’ve done once or twice, I figured let’s play pickleball and make fun out of it. Let’s call it ‘Pickleball in the Danger Zone.’” – (Loggins)
Unity Shoppe is a local non-profit helping people in crisis. This year, the focus is on those affected by wildfires in Los Angeles.
Crowds and Celebrities Join In
Over 400 players have registered for the three-day tournament. It is already sold out. Saturday’s highlight is a Celebrity-Pro match featuring actors and pro players. Duane Henry, best known for his role on NCIS, is one of the celebrity players.
“I have a great time playing. It’s the sneaky passion that snuck up on me, and I wasn’t expecting to be as addicted as I am!” – (henry)
Fans will also be able to pay-to-play in matches with celebrity guests.
Community Invited to Watch
Spectators can attend for a $50 entrance fee. With no parking available at the site, Lisa Loggins advised using other options. “Parking will definitely be a challenge — there is no parking,” said Lisa Loggins.
Kenny Loggins encouraged the public to come and support the players throughout the weekend.
Giving Through Sport
This event mixes music, sports, and service in a new way. The funds will go to families who lost homes in wildfires and others in need in Santa Barbara. With strong community interest and sold-out attendance, Loggins’ creative approach may inspire similar events in the future.
News in Brief: Pickleball in the Danger Zone
Kenny Loggins is hosting a sold-out pickleball tournament called “Pickleball in the Danger Zone” from May 2–5 at Santa Barbara Municipal Courts. The fundraiser supports Unity Shoppe and wildfire victims. Featuring celebrity matches and pay-to-play events, it encourages community fun while raising funds for those in need.
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