Time to Pickle!

The Marco Island Police Foundation will host its inaugural Pickleball Tournament at the Marco YMCA next month on Saturday, January 21st and Sunday, January 22nd.

Dubbed the Pickleball Slammer, up to 200 participants are expected to contest their skills in the categories of Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles and Mixed Doubles through round robin matches leading to single elimination. Flights and matches will be based on age and skill.

Pickleball is one of the fastest growing sports activities in the nation and played by people of all ages. According to USA Pickleball, the sport has experienced double dig- it growth during each of the last five years.

“Pickleball is being played by people of all ages and skills,” said Police Foundation President Vernon Geberth. “That’s why we are thrilled to host this tournament so players of all levels from Marco Island and the surrounding area can test their abilities.”

The Police Foundation also announced it is partnering with Southwest Florida’s Paradise PB to handle the tournament logistics and ensure a flawless event.

“We are so proud to be partnering with the Police Foundation to showcase one of Southwest Florida’s fastest growing sports with this first-class event,” said Paradise PB Managing Partner Ryan Reader and winner of the 2021 Pickleball US Open. “And what better cause than to pick up a ball and racket to support our community’s police officers and their families.”

Reader indicated that Men’s and Women’s Doubles matches will be contested on Saturday, while Mixed Doubles matches will be played on Sunday.

Players can register their teams at www.pickleballglobal.com and search ‘pickleball slammer’ under the tournaments tab. The tournament flyer can be found at www.marcopolicefoundation.org/events. Tournament questions can be directed to Ryan Reader at 239-823-6085 or info@paradisePB.com. Those interested in supporting the Police Foundation by being an event sponsor can contact Michael Hook at mjrhook@comcast.net or Bill Young at byounginmarco@gmail.com.