The third annual Make The World Better Pickleball Tournament will take place in Sea Isle City, New Jersey, on Saturday, June 28, 2025. The event will begin with registration at 11 a.m., followed by tournament play at the public pickleball courts near 42nd Place and the John F. Kennedy Boulevard Bridge. Started by former Philadelphia Eagles linebacker Conor Barwin, the tournament raises money for the Make The World Better Foundation, which supports community projects.
Fundraiser Combines Sports and Giving
This tournament is one of the top summer charity events in South Jersey. It gives locals and visitors the chance to enjoy pickleball while helping a good cause. The event is open to the public and includes a mix of casual and competitive play.
The tournament also brings in well-known athletes. In past years, current and former National Football League players have joined the games. Former Philadelphia Eagles players Malcolm Jenkins, Jason Avant, and Trent Cole have all taken part in this event.
The 2024 tournament saw Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl champions Jake Elliott and Beau Allen win the Advanced Division.
Foundation With a Mission to Build
Conor Barwin created the Make The World Better Foundation more than ten years ago. The group focuses on rebuilding public parks and spaces in cities like Philadelphia. So far, the foundation has helped build four community parks.
“Make The World Better Foundation I started over ten years ago when I started playing for the (Philadelphia) Eagles. We have worked directly with communities to reimagine and rebuild their public space,” Conor Barwin told 973 ESPN.
“When I got to Philly, (the Eagles) gave me a good contract and I decided that I wanted to make this my home. I thought, ‘I’m so lucky to play in Philly and play for these fans’, I felt like I should do something to give back to the community. I’ve been learning the whole time, the last ten years, how to get things done in (Philadelphia), how to do it the right way.” – (Conor Barwin)
Event Includes Afterparty and Prizes
After the games wrap up, participants and guests can head to an afterparty at Dockside on Park Road at 4 p.m. Raffle prizes will be awarded to raise extra money for the foundation.
Pickleball has become one of the most popular sports in the United States, and Cape May County now has over 30 public courts. Events like this tournament show how the sport is not just for fun but also supports real change.
News in Brief: Make The World Better Pickleball Tournament
The Make The World Better Pickleball Tournament returns to Sea Isle City on June 28, 2025. Created by former NFL player Conor Barwin, the event raises funds for park projects. The pickleball tournament will feature athletes, local players, raffle prizes, and an afterparty, combining sports with charity.
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