Greene County’s Pickleball Tournament: An all-female organization in Greene County is launching its inaugural fundraiser with a unique twist: a pickleball tournament aimed at supporting women’s education. The P.E.O. Chapter CZ will host the “Pickleball With A Purpose” Tournament this Saturday at Russell Park, offering recreational and competitive play on the tennis courts.
Jean Van Gilder, representing Chapter CZ, detailed the event, highlighting two tournament categories: a casual play option and a competitive group with up to 16 teams. Entry fees from the tournament will contribute to a $400 scholarship for a woman who has recently graduated from high school, took time off from higher education, and now seeks to advance her education at a post-secondary institution.
Van Gilder explained the motivation behind the scholarship, stating,
“Especially to find women who were thinking about going back to school or starting school in the first place after a time in the workforce… It’s sometimes difficult to find the funding to get that done. So we try to encourage women that are going back to school, returning after a period away.”
The choice to use pickleball as the centerpiece for the fundraiser was strategic, reflecting the sport’s rising popularity in Greene County.
“It’s been kind of growing in popularity around Greene County. We’ve had a lot of people try it. The interest has been sparked about playing pickleball, and it’s a fun game. We hope a lot of people come on out and just see what it’s all about.” – (Van Gilder)
Teams of two can participate for $20, with play beginning at 9 a.m. on Saturday. Van Gilder also encouraged community members to attend and watch the games. For those interested in registering or seeking more information, Van Gilder can be contacted at 515-370-1414 or at the Greene County Community Center.
News in Brief: Greene County’s Pickleball Tournament
The P.E.O. Chapter CZ in Greene County is hosting its first fundraiser, the “Pickleball With A Purpose” Tournament, this Saturday at Russell Park. The event features recreational and competitive play, with entry fees supporting a $400 scholarship for women returning to education.
Jean Van Gilder from Chapter CZ explained the scholarship aims to assist women who have recently graduated high school, took a break from education, and now seek to advance their studies. With pickleball’s growing popularity, the event promotes the sport and supports women’s educational advancement. Teams of two can participate for $20, starting at 9 a.m.
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