The inaugural Alma Wealth Open Pickleball Championships were held in March at Gib Reese Park, benefiting the Islamorada Foundation. Some 60 participants, several volunteers, committee persons and community leaders raised about $16,000 in the event.
This event is scheduled to be held annually on the second Saturday in March.
As pickleball has exploded throughout the United States, Islamorada is no exception. This event was presented by Islestyle Pickleball and sponsored by Alma Wealth Management and CEO Joe Jiovenetta; son Vinny, president and partner; and Debra Jiovenetta, the creator of Islestyle Pickleball.
“We are so fortunate to have the committee and sponsors who work together so hard and so generously to make this event an amazing success,” Joe Jiovenetta said.
Mother Ocean and the Micciche family played a key role in developing the event. Dan Furmanik, the Coconut Cowboy, emceed and entertained throughout the evening. Donna Hanna, with her out-of-town army, organized 50/50 tickets and other logistic projects. Several committee members had valuable input, including Ed and Diana Bernard. Ed is a local pickleball instructor and tennis professional.
Other instrumental committee members were Diane Rose, Sharon Fischer, Annie Homer, Carmen and Rene Micciche, Cheri and Jerry Brady, Dante, Deb, Vincent and Joe Jiovenetta, Donna Hanna, Jan Hollovic, JC and Kristi Mikula, Jenny Helland, Jodi Jack, Karen Prince, Mike Cunningham, Pam Vecella and Dr. Larry Dalton.
Custom-painted coconuts were provided by Cheri Brady. These special awards will become an annual tradition. They were an example of the extra effort by committee members Cheri and Jerry Brady.
More information, including how to become involved in the next tournament, is available via email to deb@islestylepickleball.com or from Joe Jiovenetta at 954-520-2963.
Alma Wealth Open Pickleball Championships results
Men’s Doubles 3.5 — Zach Sherman and Jace Jackson
Women’s Doubles 3.5 — Pam Haggenmiller and Wendi Pulcifer
Mixed Doubles 3.5 — Andres Marrero and Wendi Pulcifer
All Class 3.0 — Nancy McDonald and Jenny Helland
