Emmys Pickleball Slam Charity Event: Television stars, pro athletes, and firefighters will team up on Sunday, May 18, for the Emmys Pickleball Slam in Calabasas, California. The event raises funds for firefighter families affected by California wildfires and supports media education programs run by the Television Academy Foundation.
The all-day tournament will be held from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Calabasas Pickleball Club. Attendees will enjoy competitive matches, clinics, auctions, and a reception. Tickets are $550 for players and $300 for spectators, which includes access to clinics, gift bags, and the awards celebration.
Celebrity and Pro Player Lineup
The event features stars like Valentin Chmerkovskiy (Dancing with the Stars), Jason George (Grey’s Anatomy), Jake Johnson (The Dink; New Girl), Lala Kent (Vanderpump Rules), Phil Keoghan (The Amazing Race), Steven Krueger (Yellowjackets), Jonathan Mangum (Let’s Make A Deal), Kunal Nayyar (The Big Bang Theory), Tig Notaro (The Morning Show), Sugar Ray Leonard (pro boxer), and Mary Steenburgen (The Dink).
Professional pickleball players include Nick Black, Maggie Brascia, Mary Brascia, Wes Burrows, Nicole Eugenio, Gabriel Joseph, Sharon Lee, Warren Tamanaha, and Vince Van Patten.
Helping Firefighters and Students
Funds from the event go to the Widows, Orphans & Disabled Firefighter’s Fund and the Foundation’s education programs. The Firefighter’s Fund will use donations to help families impacted by the January 2025 Eaton and Palisades wildfires.
“This event is a powerful example of what happens when two incredible communities — first responders and entertainment professionals — come together for a greater cause,” said John Marasco, LAFD Captain II and Fund trustee. “Our firefighters put everything on the line to protect lives, and it means the world to see the Television Academy Foundation rally behind them during such a challenging time. The support brings not just financial relief but also emotional strength to the families of our firefighters impacted by the January 2025 California wildfires.”
Tina Perry, chair of the Television Academy Foundation, said the event helps both firefighter families and future media professionals. “We are thrilled to introduce the annual pickleball tournament this year officially after last year’s successful trial,” Perry said. “We are honored to present this unique event celebrating the spirit of competition and community. The tournament is not just about playing pickleball; it’s about coming together to support our brave firefighters and their families during a challenging time. The funds raised will provide crucial assistance to the firefighter families affected by the wildfires and bolster our renowned education programs, helping students achieve their dreams in television and media.”
Growing Support and Sponsors
The Emmys Pickleball Slam is part of the 60th anniversary of pickleball, a sport created in 1965. Sponsors for the event include Allen & Anita Kohl Charitable Foundation, CBS, CRBN, Dooney & Bourke, Evoke Advisors, Murray/Reese Foundation, NBCUniversal, PickleTV, and Trü Frü.
Looking Ahead
This event brings celebrities, athletes, and everyday heroes together to give back. It highlights how sports can unite communities for a greater cause. With rising support, the Emmys Pickleball Slam may become a lasting tradition that helps even more people in the years ahead.
News in Brief: Emmys Pickleball Slam Charity Event
Stars, pros, and firefighters will play pickleball on May 18 at the Calabasas Pickleball Club to raise money for wildfire victims and support student programs. The event includes a tournament, clinics, red carpet arrivals, and a reception. Tickets are available to both players and spectators.
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