Pickleball for All Charity Tournament: The Arc of Shelby County will host its first annual Pickleball for All—The Arc of Shelby County Challenge tournament on Sunday, June 22, 2025, at the Magic City Indoor Pickleball Club in Homewood, Alabama. The event aims to raise funds to support individuals with intellectual disabilities and delays. Registration is open for $50 per player, and there are various sponsorship opportunities for those who wish to support the cause.
A Fun and Inclusive Fundraiser
Carole Lyons, Director of Development and Community Relations for The Arc of Shelby County, explained the inspiration behind the tournament.
“We were inspired to launch the first annual Pickleball for All tournament as a fun, inclusive way to bring the community together while raising awareness and support for individuals with developmental disabilities and delays.” – (Lyons)
She emphasized that pickleball is a great choice for this event because it’s a rapidly growing sport accessible to people of all ages and skill levels.
“Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the country and it’s accessible to people of all ages and skill levels, which makes it a perfect fit for our mission of inclusion.” – (Lyons)
“It’s more than just a tournament; it’s a chance to engage new supporters, build connections, and ensure that the individuals we serve continue to have access to life-changing services and support.” – (Lyons)
Event Details and Registration Information
The tournament will feature several levels of play to accommodate players of all abilities. Beginners can register for the 2.0 and 2.5 skill level bracket for $50, while competitive players can join the 3.0 and 3.5 brackets in two-player teams for $50 per player.
“All ages can participate. We have many levels of play; male, female and coed. There is no age limit and we invite everyone to register to play. We would love people from Shelby County and surrounding areas to come out, learn more about the programs, services and who we are while having fun on the courts.” – (Lyons)
The event will start at 12:30 p.m. with the Beginner Level check-in. Competitive teams will check in at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. After each bracket, medals will be awarded to the top players or teams. Lyons hopes to attract 120 participants for this year’s half-day event.
“We hope to meet our goal of 120 players this year for a half-day tournament, and next year grow into a full-day or weekend event. The event will begin at 12:30 p.m., with the Beginner Level players checking in, and then play begins. At 2 p.m., Competitive 3.0 teams will check in, and at 4 p.m. the Competitive 3.5 teams will check in and compete. After each bracket, medals will be awarded to the top three players or teams depending on the bracket.” – (Lyons)
Supporting Local Programs and Services
The funds raised at the tournament will benefit The Arc of Shelby County’s various programs, which help individuals with developmental disabilities and delays.
“The Arc provides early intervention and children services from birth through age three. We offer employment services, community services and we have a day program, New Visions.” – (Lyons)
For over 51 years, The Arc has helped more than 1,760 people across Shelby County.
“Through advocacy, coaching and support, we empower individuals with developmental disabilities and delays and their families to achieve their goals. We have served individuals and families in Shelby County for 51 years and are currently serving over 1,760 across the county.” – (Lyons)
Originally, the organization sought space at local parks, but due to availability issues, the Magic City Indoor Pickleball Club was chosen as the event venue.
“We hoped to stay within the county, but the idea of having it indoors during the month of June was a bonus when I found out about Magic City Indoor Pickleball Club. Once I spoke to their sales manager, she shared her experience with fundraisers like ours and has experience hosting them. We are working with them closely to organize a great event to raise money while having fun.” – (Lyons)
Advocacy and Community Engagement
Lyons also highlighted the significance of the tournament beyond fundraising. She believes it will give the community an opportunity to support and advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities.
“Supporting events like the Pickleball for All tournament is vital because they shine a spotlight on the abilities, potential, and value of individuals with developmental disabilities while involving the community in that message.” – (Lyons)
“These events are not just fundraisers; they’re opportunities for advocacy, education and connection. The visibility and funds raised through events like this directly support programs that empower individuals with developmental disabilities to live, work and thrive in their own communities.” – (Lyons)
News in Brief: Pickleball for All Charity Tournament
The Arc of Shelby County’s inaugural Pickleball for All—The Arc of Shelby County Challenge will take place on June 22, 2025, at the Magic City Indoor Pickleball Club. The pickleball tournament is designed to raise funds for people with developmental disabilities. Registration is open, and sponsorship opportunities are available.
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