On Saturday, July 18, Habitat for Humanity of Coastal Fairfield County (Habitat CFC) hosted its first-ever Pickleball Tournament at Shoreline Pickleball in Milford, bringing the community together for an afternoon of friendly competition to benefit affordable housing in Coastal Fairfield County.
Pickleball enthusiast and Habitat CFC Development Manager, Jay Helmer, conceived of the tournament as a fun way to unite the community through one of the country's fastest-growing sports, while raising critical funds to support Habitat CFC's mission.
The fundraiser drew a strong turnout despite the stormy weather, with 12 players in the social division, and 18 players in the competitive division. Many spectators were also present to watch the matches. Attendees included Shoreline Pickleball regulars, Habitat CFC supporters and staff.
The event began with welcome remarks from Habitat CFC Executive Director, Ashley Volkens, followed by heartfelt remarks from Helmer about Habitat CFC's mission.
"Your support today helps create pathways to affordable housing right here in our own backyard. You’re providing hope and stability for local families, and it means so much to us that you’re all here,” said Ashley.
Jay shared, “On other Saturdays, when I’m not playing pickleball, I have been lucky enough to coordinate homeowner dedications where we give the keys to families who have successfully completed our program and are ready to own their homes. You should see the magic on those days, when you can say to someone ‘here are the keys to your first home!’ For many families, they thought that was unattainable. Events like this help make that happen.”
The social division kicked off the tournament with mixed doubles matches, clearly enjoying the friendly rallies. The matches went five rounds, with Robyn Carlson and Jason Kline taking first prize, Jennifer Mangiafico and Eugene Williams coming in second, and Jean Husted and Chris Hayes taking third place.
The tournament heated up as the competitive teams took to the courts. The high-level play was fierce as the skillful teams faced off. Spectators enjoyed watching spectacular shots and several close-fought games, with the championship match lasting seven rounds before the winners were finally determined. Alexis O’Rourke and Brendan Pettei proudly took first place, Kathy Masi and George Murphy second, and Karjana Wibaya and Sue Davies came in third.
Thank you to our sponsor!
Our Tournament was generously sponsored by Porch and Patio. Thank you, Jeff Heitman! 
Thank you to our in-kind sponsors!
Following its first-year success, the tournament will likely become an annual event for Habitat CFC. Habitat CFC is deeply grateful to all those who participated in the tournament, sponsored the event, and donated to support Habitat CFC’s mission.
Click here to view more photos from our event.
