ATHENS-The Athens Alabama Pickleball Association (AAPA) is thrilled to announce the much-anticipated return of the 2nd Annual AAPA Picklefest Pickleball Tournament, presented by Dream Key Real Estate, is set to take place at the Athens Sportplex from September 22 to September 24, 2023. This three-day event promises to be a pickleball extravaganza like no other, welcoming players, spectators, and pickleball enthusiasts from near and far.
Building on the tremendous success of the inaugural tournament held last year, this year’s event promises to be even bigger and better. With the Athens Recreation Center as the backdrop, the AAPA Tournament aims to showcase the exhilarating sport of pickleball while fostering community engagement and competition in the city of Athens, Alabama.
Athens Mayor Ronnie Marks proclaimed Sept. 17-24 as Pickleball Tournament Week in the City of Athens. Photo L to R: Athens Alabama Pickleball Association Board President David Chasteen, Athens Alabama Pickleball Association Board Secretary/Treasuer Teresa Gale, Athens Mayor Ronnie Marks, Athens Alabama Pickleball Association Board Vice President and Tournament Chair Jennifer Bridges, and Athens Alabama Pickleball Association Board Member Rhonda Weatherford. Photo is courtesy of AAPA
Tournament Highlights:
1. Dates – The 2nd Annual AAPA Tournament will run from September 22 to September 24, 2023.
2. Venue – The Athens Sportplex, located at 21281 Sportsplex Loop Athens, Alabama 35611, will serve as the tournament’s central hub, providing ample space for both players and spectators.
3. Competition – The tournament will feature various skill levels, including singles, doubles, and mixed doubles divisions, ensuring there is something for players of all abilities. Participants can expect fierce but friendly competition.
4. Medals – Each bracket will have a bronze, silver, and gold medalist. Spectators can view the award ceremonies at the Dream Key Real Estate award podium located near the courts.
5. Spectator-Friendly – The tournament is open to the public, and spectators are encouraged to attend. It’s a great opportunity to witness the athleticism and camaraderie that defines the pickleball community. There will be bleachers and areas for lawn chairs.
6. Food – The Athens Sportsplex will be serving food for players and spectators. AAPA also encourages you to support local businesses throughout the community.
7. Community Engagement The AAPA is committed to giving back to the community. A check will be presented to the City of Athens, Alabama Cemetery, Parks, and Recreation department during the tournament’s opening ceremony, emphasizing the association’s dedication to making a positive impact.
8. Community Social – Back by popular demand, the AAPA Tournament Social, sponsored by David Turner Insurance Agency LLC / Country Financial, will be held on September 23, 2023, from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. at Athens Alehouse and Cellar located at 111 W. Washington Street Athens, AL 35611. This free event is open to the community. DJ Zillion will be keeping the crowd entertained with their favorite music and Ramona’s J’s food truck is scheduled to be in attendance for patrons to enjoy and partake in. Attendees might also see some pickleball action in the streets.
Jennifer Bridges, Tournament Chair, expressed her excitement for the upcoming tournament, stating, “We are thrilled to bring back the AAPA Picklefest pickleball tournament for its second year. It’s an excellent opportunity for the pickleball community to come together, showcase their skills, and have a lot of fun.”
Media Release/Athens Alabama Pickleball Association
