Get your paddle, grab a partner and come serve for a good cause. The second annual Pickleball for a Purpose tournament invites players of all levels to join in supporting The Christmas Box International, a nonprofit organization that works to defend children and prevent child abuse. 

Tickets are going fast for the tournament scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 6, from 1-5 p.m. at the Sports Mall Athletic & Racket Club (5445 S. 900 East). For a $45 donation per player, participants will take part in open play, coached drills, a social ice breaker, challenge courts and the Last Player Standing game.

Jeray Burgess volunteers at The Christmas Box International and organized the first event last year. 

“We had a little starter event last year in Kaysville at the [The Kitchen Indoor Pickleball Courts] but we could only have 44 players,” Burgess said. “It was my goal this year to double or triple that number. The Sports Mall has generously donated their brand new courts for the event.”

Players have the opportunity to win four tickets to the Pro Tour of Pickleball held in Las Vegas, with additional prizes provided by Selkirk, STK Steakhouse, Holbrook, R & R BBQ, Kimi’s Chop House, Kendra Scott, Montis Shoes and more. Plus, each attendee receives drinks and snacks, and a swag bag filled with fun gifts.

The fast-paced event includes beginner, intermediate, advanced and open play courts. There will also be timed 15-minute games and pickleball pros will offer lessons and drills.  

All proceeds will support the most vulnerable children in the state through The Christmas Box International services. 

“Chrismas Box has three shelters in Utah for children who get have to be removed from their home or their foster home for neglect or abuse,” Burgess said. “It also helps fund other shelters across Utah. These shelters must have the immediate essentials a child might need, of any age, of any gender. Things like hygiene products and clothing because they’re being removed from their home and they may not even have time to gather things in a bag to leave. It’s a huge problem.”

For more information, or to purchase tickets, visit bit.ly/PickleballPurpose.