The Florida Keys Children’s Shelter served up sunshine, smiles and spirited competition during the free Community Pickleball Tournament on July 12 at Key Largo Park. What started as a friendly match turned into a full-blown community celebration, filled with high fives, laughter and hometown pride.
Kids and young adults ages 8 to 21 competed in three skill divisions — beginner, intermediate and advanced — after a week of training and practice. First-place winners received $200 VISA gift cards; second place, $100 gift cards; and third place, $50 gift cards.
Winners also took home prize baskets filled with gift cards to local favorites like Skippers Dockside, Snappers and Yellow Bait House, along with Franklin pickleballs, new paddles, beach towels, sun hats, water bottles and giveaways from Keys Deep and All Sales Commodity.
But the event was about more than just pickleball — it was a day of connection, celebration, and community fun. Attendees enjoyed music, dancing, free ice cream and ice pops, and a 360-photo booth. Every participant received free pickleball sportswear, snacks and refreshments.
To cool off after a competitive morning, participants received free admission to Jacobs Aquatic Center, where they splashed, floated and relaxed with their teammates and families. Raffle prizes included an XR Glow electric scooter, premium pickleball sets and an electric motocross bike.
Whether on the court or cheering from the sidelines, this event captured the true spirit of the Florida Keys — connection, joy and a shared commitment to youth.
KYLE PEEL/Contributed
Tournament Winners
Advanced Division
1st Place: Josiah Peta & Christian Bernade
2nd Place: Christian Gonzalez & Maykol Bonito
3rd Place: Barrett Hefner & Scott Oliver
Intermediate Division
1st Place: Charlie Smith & John Powell
2nd Place: Liam McCallister & Oliver McCallister
3rd Place: Van Alvarez & Ray Alvarez
Beginner Division
1st Place: Blake Seits & Mateo Maytin
2nd Place: Costas Corral & Adrian Corral
3rd Place: Ire Blue & Lindley Hamilton
