Key Largo Youth Pickleball Tournament: On July 12, 2025, young athletes and families gathered at Key Largo Park for a free Community Pickleball Tournament hosted by the Florida Keys Children’s Shelter. The event, held under the Florida sun, welcomed players ages 8 to 21 and combined friendly competition with fun, music, and community spirit.
The tournament featured three skill levels—beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Players spent the previous week training before competing for top prizes. Winners received gift cards, sports gear, and other exciting items. The day ended with laughter, cheering, and a splash in the pool, creating lasting memories for everyone involved.
Competition and Prizes
Participants were divided into beginner, intermediate, and advanced divisions. After intense but friendly matches, the top players earned rewards.
First-place winners received $200 VISA gift cards. Second-place teams earned $100 gift cards, and third-place teams got $50 gift cards. Winners also took home prize baskets filled with pickleballs from Franklin, new paddles, beach towels, water bottles, and local restaurant vouchers.
Gift cards from places like Skippers Dockside, Snappers, and Yellow Bait House were included in the prize packs, along with branded items from Keys Deep and All Sales Commodity.
A Day of Fun and Connection
While competition was a big part of the event, the day was about more than just winning. The park was filled with music, dancing, and treats. A 360-photo booth, free ice cream, and ice pops added to the excitement.
Every player received free pickleball gear, snacks, and drinks. After the tournament, participants cooled off with free admission to the Jacobs Aquatic Center. There, they swam, floated, and relaxed with teammates and family.
Raffle prizes were also a major attraction. Lucky winners walked away with an XR Glow electric scooter, premium pickleball sets, and an electric motocross bike.
“Whether on the court or cheering from the sidelines, this event captured the true spirit of the Florida Keys — connection, joy and a shared commitment to youth.”
Tournament Results
Advanced Division
1st Place: Josiah Peta and Christian Bernade
2nd Place: Christian Gonzalez and Maykol Bonito
3rd Place: Barrett Hefner and Scott Oliver
Intermediate Division
1st Place: Charlie Smith and John Powell
2nd Place: Liam McCallister and Oliver McCallister
3rd Place: Van Alvarez and Ray Alvarez
Beginner Division
1st Place: Blake Seits and Mateo Maytin
2nd Place: Costas Corral and Adrian Corral
3rd Place: Ire Blue and Lindley Hamilton
A Lasting Impact
The tournament not only encouraged fitness and skill-building but also created a sense of community. Events like this show how sports can bring people together, especially young people. The Florida Keys Children’s Shelter continues to build these spaces for fun, friendship, and youth development.
As pickleball grows in popularity, more local youth will likely join future tournaments. With prizes, support, and a welcoming environment, Key Largo is setting a strong example of how to use sports for good.
News in Brief: Key Largo Youth Pickleball Tournament
The Florida Keys Children’s Shelter hosted a free youth pickleball tournament on July 12 at Key Largo Park. Players ages 8 to 21 competed across three divisions. The event included prizes, music, food, and pool time. It brought families together and celebrated youth, connection, and community fun.