Langley City Pickleball Tournament: In an impressive display of community spirit, a group of pickleball players from Langley City has set a new fundraising record. The recent charity tournament for Douglas Park Community School raised over $25,000, surpassing previous efforts and highlighting the generosity of the local pickleball community.
Cheques and Emotions: A Heartfelt Presentation
On September 10, a cheque presentation took place at the pickleball courts adjacent to the K-to-5 school. Tei James, a director of the organizing society, was visibly moved by the outcome.
“It’s unbelievable, actually, I’m very emotional. Our normal fundraising is concessions and raffles and things like that. So this is just remarkable.” – (James)
Impact Beyond Numbers: What the Funds Will Achieve
The funds raised will significantly benefit students at Douglas Park. Last year’s efforts helped 10 families with autism assessments and funded a sensory climbing wall. This year, Kristina Crosgrey, the Douglas Park Pickleball fundraising coordinator, estimated that more than a dozen children will receive assessments they otherwise could not afford.
“We’re thrilled to have that new record, thanks to our many sponsors and a supportive pickleball community.” – (Crosgrey)
Community Support: Voices from Langley’s Leaders
Langley MLA Andrew Mercier praised the impact of the funds, noting they will “change lives for a lot of kids and a lot of parents.”
“This is absolutely the best part of Langley, which is community coming together to support each other.” – (Mercier)
Similarly, Langley City Deputy Mayor Rosemary Wallace highlighted the importance of the initiative, noting that an assessment can cost $3,000 and take years to obtain.
“My heart is full with the amount and the work that the society does, and how pickleball has grown in our community, and how much you give back to our community.” – (Wallace)
Tournament Highlights: A Record-Breaking Event
The charity pickleball tournament, which ran from July 4-7, drew over 230 players, marking it as the largest pickleball event in the Lower Mainland. This participation level significantly exceeded the 180 players from the 2023 tournament, which raised $20,062. Organizers are already planning for next year’s event, aiming to set new records and continue supporting the school’s needs.
News in Brief: Langley City Pickleball Tournament
Langley City’s Douglas Park Pickleball charity tournament raised a record-breaking $25,000, surpassing last year’s total. The funds will support autism assessments for over a dozen students. The event, held from July 4-7, drew more than 230 players, up from 180 in 2023. Local leaders praised the community’s generosity, highlighting the significant impact on families and students.
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