Charlevoix pickleball tournament raises $2,000 for local charity

CHARLEVOIX — Charlevoix’s pickleball community came together for a cause on Aug. 19, hosting the second annual Red Against Blue Pickleball Tournament.

The event, organized by Philip Wampler, was a fundraiser for Kari’s Closet, a local charity providing free clothing and essential items to children in need. The tournament raised nearly $2,000 for the charity.

Kari’s Closet, housed near the Reformed Church in Charlevoix, operates like a small boutique, offering everything from clothing to school supplies, all at no cost to families.

“It’s completely free, and we always meet the needs, whether it’s through donations or purchasing what’s missing,” said Kris Way, a key organizer whose daughter the organization is named after.

"Kari’s Closet is an amazing resource, and we’re thrilled to have raised this much to support it," Way added.

The tournament featured 20 players split into red and blue teams, with the red team narrowly winning 17-15. The event, held at the Charlevoix Township courts, was marked by windy conditions but plenty of enthusiasm. The funds raised will go towards back-to-school items for local children.

Despite the success, Way highlighted the ongoing struggle to secure dedicated pickleball courts in Charlevoix.

With the tournament’s success and the continued growth of pickleball in the area, Way said she hopes that both the sport and community efforts like Kari’s Closet will gain more recognition and support.

— Contact reporter Annie Doyle at (231) 675-0099 and adoyle@charlevoixcourier.com

This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Charlevoix pickleball tournament raises $2,000 for local charity