Fox Lake Pickleball Tournament Community Impact: Fox Lake hosted its first Pickleball Tournament on Saturday, August 9, at Lakefront Park Pickleball Courts. The event, organized by 606 Academy and the village of Fox Lake, welcomed adults ages 18 and older of all skill levels to compete in mixed doubles matches.
Competition and Community
Players from the area joined the brackets for a day of fun and competition. Recreational and competitive players faced off in fast-paced rallies, with the top three teams earning medals and gift cards from Rusty Malts Coffee & Ice Cream in Ringwood.
Coach Greg, U.S. Marine Corps veteran and founder of 606 Academy, emphasized the event’s larger purpose. “This tournament is about more than just competition – it’s about bringing people together through a shared love for the game,” he said. He added thanks to Jennifer Kuhn, program and events manager, and Kim Loewe, recreation and special events coordinator, for their key role in organizing the tournament. “We’re proud to have teamed up… and we hope this becomes an annual tradition here in Fox Lake.”
Supporting Local Youth
A portion of the event’s proceeds will go toward programs that give children access to sports and recreation. The tournament highlighted 606 Academy’s wider mission of using athletics to teach leadership, teamwork, and resilience.
The Story Behind 606 Academy
606 Academy began as a personal mission for Coach Greg after serving in the U.S. Marine Corps and exploring education. Starting small, he often balanced coaching with driving rideshare jobs while facing challenges such as limited gym space and resources.
Mentors like Jarryd Loyd and Ismaila Kane supported his vision, while encouragement from WNBA star Jewell Loyd helped transform the program into a nonprofit. Today, 606 Academy, with coaches including Matthew Fields and Jaronn Watkins, teaches children lessons in sports, service, and confidence.
Why It Matters
The tournament was more than a competition—it was an opportunity to grow community bonds and invest in the future of local youth. Organizers hope it will continue as an annual event that not only showcases pickleball but also supports children in need of guidance and opportunity.
News in Brief: Fox Lake Pickleball Tournament Community Impact
Fox Lake and 606 Academy hosted the first Pickleball Tournament at Lakefront Park on August 9. The event welcomed players of all levels, awarded medals, and raised funds for youth programs. Organizers, including Coach Greg, Jennifer Kuhn, and Kim Loewe, hope to make the tournament an annual tradition.
ALSO READ: Teen Prodigy and Record Crowds Energize Little Rock’s Best of the Best Pickleball Tournament