Osakis High School Pickleball Tournament: Osakis High School will host its second annual Pickleball Tournament on Saturday, Sept. 6, at the school’s tennis courts. Organized by the Osakis Closeup Group, the event will raise money to help high school seniors travel to Washington, D.C., while giving players of all skill levels a chance to compete for cash prizes.
Tournament Details and Registration
The tournament includes beginner, intermediate, and advanced divisions. Mixed divisions, including men’s and women’s, are available so anyone can participate. First-, second-, and third-place winners will receive cash prizes. Registration costs $40 per team and can be completed by scanning the QR code on the flyer or emailing Matt Hoelscher, teacher and Closeup director.
Matt Hoelscher said,
“We’re trying to host this tournament as a fundraiser for our students who are traveling to Washington D.C. in March. We did it last year, but this is the first year that we’re trying to do it during the Taste of Osakis.”
Supporting Students’ Civic Education
The Osakis Closeup Group consists of high school seniors who travel each spring to Washington, D.C., to learn about civic responsibilities and meet students from across the country. Hoelscher explained,
“When we go there, we are meeting people from all over the country. We have people from every single state, basically — even Puerto Rico.”
During the trip, students tour landmarks such as the Holocaust Museum, Mount Vernon, Ford’s Theater, the Capitol, and the Library of Congress. They also meet with state representatives and practice having open, respectful discussions with people who think differently.
“What the kids do is learn how to have open discussions with people who think differently politically and not judging people, but having open, honest discussions,” (Matt Hoelscher).
Games Begin Early
Pickleball matches will start at 9 a.m., giving participants a full day of competition while supporting a meaningful cause.
News in Brief: Osakis High School Pickleball Tournament
Osakis High School’s second annual Pickleball Tournament on Sept. 6 will raise funds for students traveling to Washington, D.C. The event welcomes all skill levels with mixed divisions and cash prizes. Registration is $40 per team, and games start at 9 a.m.
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