Pickle in Paradise – 1st Annual Pickleball Tournament

Prepare to play pickleball in paradise for a purpose! The First Annual Pickle in Paradise pickleball tournament is coming to Key Largo Park on February 8, 2025, and it promises to be a popular event for both players and spectators alike.

Hosted by the Key Largo Rotary, this exciting event will not only showcase the growing popularity of pickleball in the local community but also benefit the Key Largo Rotary Scholarship Program. The program helps students and adults pursue their dreams and further their careers through vocational, college, and continuing education scholarships.

Key Largo Rotary hosts several events every year to fund the scholarship program, but after Hurricane Irma, the Rotary had to say goodbye to one of its favorite fundraisers, Brew on the Bay. They have been seeking a fresh replacement to raise funds for their scholarship programs ever since.

Enter pickleball.

“Pickleball has grown so much in popularity, and the high energy and fun is contagious. It’s a great way to help raise money and awareness for these life-changing scholarships,” says Michelle Pope, one of the tournament organizers and upcoming Key Largo Rotary board member.

The Pickle in Paradise tournament kicks off at noon at the Key Largo Park Pickleball Courts. These ten public courts are a recent addition that put big city courts to shame and have been extremely well-received in the community.

Players will compete in Open Doubles divisions for beginners, intermediate, and advanced players. The event is open to all ages, and while there isn’t a junior division this year, younger players are welcome to join.

The tournament will host up to 76 players, so spots are limited. Registration is $75 per player, and organizers suggest signing up quickly as the event is filling up fast! Winners of each division will receive fun prizes, like top-tier branded paddles and painted coconuts by a local artist. All of the winners will receive commemorative medals to mark their victory.

While the tournament is sure to draw plenty of attention from pickleball enthusiasts, there will also be plenty of activities for non-players. The event will feature food trucks, vendor tents, and a variety of health and wellness services, making it a perfect outing for the entire family.

“We’re lucky to have Michelle Pope on board to help bring a fresh perspective to the Rotary and this event,” says Jennifer Roth, past Rotary President and another key organizer of the tournament. “It’s going to be a fun time and a great way to support a cause that’s so important to our community.”

Michelle Pope was thrilled to help bring the idea to life. “It’s really exciting to be part of a new event like this, especially one that gives back to the community,” she says. “We hope the tournament will become a staple event in the Keys for years to come.”

The Key Largo Rotary has several opportunities to become sponsors to support the event, and all funds raised from the tournament stay in the community and go directly to the scholarship program. If you’re interested in sponsoring or would like to learn more about the event, visit the Key Largo Rotary’s official website at KeyLargoRotary.org.

With pickleball’s increasing popularity, the First Annual Pickle in Paradise tournament is sure to be an exciting, high-energy event that brings the community together for a good cause. Whether you’re a seasoned pickleball player or just looking for a fun afternoon in the Keys, come out to the Key Largo Park Pickleball Courts on February 8 and support the future of local students and adults.

Don’t wait—register today and get ready to paddle for a purpose!