Fairmont State Looking to "Share Ivan's Smile" with Pickleball Tourney to Aid City's Inclusive Playground
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on June 03, 2024
For those who enjoy pickleball, there is an event that may have too many positives to pass up coming up later this summer.
Fairmont State University has announced it will be holding a pickleball tournament on July 14. The event will take place at the Falcon Center on the Fairmont State campus.
While a tournament alone is likely to draw the attention of pickleball advocates, what helps put this one over the top as a must-go event is that proceeds will not only help benefit the Medbrook Children’s Charity Inclusive Playground at The Bridge but will honor the life and memory of Ivan Gonzalez who passed away earlier this year.
Gonzalez is the 7-year-old standout who played in the Bridgeport division of Challenger League Baseball. He was known for his beautiful smile that melted hearts. Fairmont State is promoting the event as “Share Ivan’s Smile.” The beautiful child who brought joy to many found his own special joy playing and, in particular, spending time on the playground slides.
The tournament will use proceeds and donations to help raise funds for the Inclusive Playground in Bridgeport. Fairmont State has announced the goal is to raise $25,000 for the project.
Want to get involved as a player?
The cost is $60 per team. The fee includes T-shirts for team members. Prizes will also be awarded for an event where the field is likely to fill up fast.
Want to help the cause? Individuals and businesses are encouraged to become a sponsor of the event or donate to it.
If you would like to become involved as a player, donor, or sponsor, call Amie at 304-677-9913 or Cheri at 304-695-6518.
Open division begins at 9 a.m. The check-in is at https://shorturl.at/WCVQw
The 3.5 below division begins at 1 p.m. The check-in is at https://shorturl.at/Hthgs
The 3.5 below division begins at 1 p.m. The check-in is at https://shorturl.at/Hthgs
