Home Base Florida held its first annual mini Pickleball tournament at the Naples Pickleball Center on the 30th and 31st of March, with a makeup date of April 6th due to inclement weather on the first day of the tournament. The event, presented by the Florida Gulf Coast University Marieb College of Health and Human Services, was a resounding success.

Home Base Florida is overwhelmed by the support from the Southwest Florida community and their dedication to making this event successful. Not only were there 160 registrants, but many members of the community also made their way out to the tournament. Patrick Shea a US Marine Veteran and staff member of Naples Pickleball Center (NPC) stated “This is amazing. This is all about community and family and everyone coming together, realizing we are here to help someone.”

The tournament was held over two days, despite the rain on the first day of the tournament, the organizers of the mini Pickleball tournament were determined to finish the competition despite the rainy weather. They rescheduled the games for Thursday, April 6th, hoping for better weather conditions. However, the Florida weather had other plans, and the tournament was once again rained out. Although this was disappointing for everyone involved, the event was still considered a success, and the community’s support for Home Base Florida and its mission to assist Veterans was unwavering.

Home Base Florida would like to extend our thanks to Naples Pickleball Center, Florida Gulf Coast University Marieb College of Health and Human Services, our Home Base Leadership and Staff, and all the participants. As NPC Managing Partners, Bob Strommen, said “No one can argue about the value supporting Veterans who have given so much. It is one of our pride and joys of who we are. It is a part of our culture and brand to give back.” That is exactly what the Southwest Florida community did.

To catch a glimpse into the wonderful tournament we had please click here.