Pickleball with a purpose: Upcoming tourneys to raise money for charities

Sep 1, 2024 at 11:03 PM
Pickleball Tournaments Raise Funds for Worthy CausesPickleball enthusiasts in Marblehead, Massachusetts are gearing up for two exciting tournaments this month, both aimed at raising money for important community initiatives. The first event, the Win 4 All tournament hosted by the Glo Girls, will benefit Girls Inc. in Boston and Lynn, while the Move4Heather tournament will support the Heather Walker Fund, honoring a beloved community member who passed away from brain cancer.

Driving Change Through Pickleball

Glo Girls' Win 4 All Tournament

The Glo Girls, a group of pickleball-loving friends led by Marblehead native Marcel Quiroga, are hosting their second annual Win 4 All tournament from September 20-22. Last year, their efforts raised $20,000 for Girls Inc., a nonprofit that serves girls aged 5 to 25, and this year they've set their sights even higher, aiming to reach $30,000.Quiroga, who owns the local financial planning firm TQM Wealth Partners, explains that the funds will go directly towards expanding Girls Inc.'s programming. "Every dollar is going to fund more opportunities for these girls, so they can benefit from the incredible work Girls Inc. does," she said. The organization provides a safe space for young women to build confidence, develop academic skills, and learn about health and wellness, empowering them to navigate the challenges of growing up.The Win 4 All tournament will kick off with a festive cocktail reception on Friday, September 20, followed by men's and women's doubles matches on Saturday and mixed doubles on Sunday. Pickleball enthusiasts of all skill levels are invited to participate and support the cause. Those interested can find more information and register at pickleballbrackets.com, searching for "TQM."

Move4Heather Tournament

Just a week later, on September 28 and 29, the Marblehead Pickleball community will host the Move4Heather tournament at the Veterans School. This event is designed to raise money for the Heather Walker Fund, named after a beloved member of the Marblehead community who passed away from brain cancer a year ago.The tournament is being co-sponsored by Friends of Marblehead Basketball, an organization that feels a deep connection to Heather Walker and her family. "Like many in Marblehead, Friends of Marblehead Basketball feels a special bond with Heather and her loved ones," said Lauren Andriano, a representative of the group. "We kicked off fundraising last year and thought it would be fitting to collaborate with Marblehead Pickleball in Move4Heather fashion to continue honoring her memory."Heather Walker was a true inspiration to the community, and her impact extended far beyond Marblehead. "Heather is a true inspiration and touched so many lives in our community and beyond," Andriano added. "It is such an honor to be part of this incredible weekend and raise funds to find a cure for glioblastoma."Pickleball enthusiasts interested in participating in the Move4Heather tournament can find more information and sign up on the Marblehead Pickleball website, marbleheadpickleball.org.