By Allison Peck
Listen to the full interview on our Kubota Podcast
The North Platte Pickleball Club will bring back its annual Queen of the Court tournament September 19, with proceeds benefiting the Callahan Cancer Care Center.
The fifth annual event will be held at the Cody Park pickleball courts, with check-in beginning at 9 a.m. and play starting at 9:30.
Jane Wilkinson with the North Platte Pickleball Club says the tournament gives players an opportunity to enjoy the sport while supporting local cancer patients.
“We all know someone who is dealing with cancer,” Wilkinson said. “Our group really likes to give back to the community.”
The tournament is open to players of all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players, and participants do not need to have a partner to register.
Registration is $30 per person, with all registration proceeds going to the Callahan Cancer Care Center.
Wilkinson said the club has been able to raise more than $10,000 for the cancer center through the event over the past four years.
For Wilkinson, the fundraiser is especially meaningful because she also volunteers at the hospital and sees some of the people who benefit from the support.
“Some people just need money for gas to get there,” Wilkinson said. “And that's the last thing they need to worry about when they're dealing with cancer.”
The fundraiser also includes a raffle featuring an autumn-themed gift basket valued at more than $300. The basket was donated by the Gift Box at Great Plains Health and includes fall items such as blankets and other gifts.
Wilkinson said the raffle typically brings in another couple thousand dollars for the cause.
The club is also accepting donated items from local businesses and community members to be given away as prizes during the tournament.
“It's so great,” Wilkinson said of bringing pickleball and fundraising together. “Everyone's so happy.”
Participants can register online through the North Platte Pickleball Club at northplattepickleball.com.
The event will also feature breakfast burritos and coffee available for purchase from Axes and Aces.