Pickleball paddles, perfect weather, and a whole lot of heart that’s what 96 players (48 teams) brought to Moranda Park in Port Hueneme on Saturday, June 20th, and the result was one of the most fun afternoons the Nate’s Place community has ever seen.
From beginners to seasoned pros, the courts were buzzing all day with fierce competition, big laughs, and the kind of community energy that makes an event truly unforgettable. Multiple members from Long Beach and 562 Pickleball Community played in the event, as well as volunteered at the event and showed their support for Nate’s Place.
The event was brought to life by the passionate Nate’s Place Pickleball Classic committee – Diana Cheng, Ron Karu, Stacy Potter, Rich Collins, and Adrian Zimmer who made it all happen.
“As an avid pickleball player and a supporter of Nate’s Place, I wanted to share the great work of Nate’s Place while doing something fun for the community.” — Diana Cheng, Co-Organizer
“I was introduced to pickleball at a fundraiser for Nate’s Place. Since then, pickleball has been part of my life. With the help of so many supporters and sponsors, the event exceeded my expectations!” — Ron Karu, Co-Organizer
The tournament featured categories for every skill level, so no one sat on the sidelines. And when players weren’t rallying on the courts, they were rallying around some incredible silent auction prizes and great raffles because apparently the only thing more competitive than pickleball is bidding.
“It was an honor and pleasure to be a part of a fun, impactful event. I am looking forward to the next one!!” – Adrian Zimmer, Committee Member
This was the second annual Nate’s Place Pickleball Classic and thanks to the incredible support of friends, volunteers, and sponsors, it won’t be the last. Mark your calendars now, because next year is going to be even bigger. Click here to watch the video recap of the day.
To everyone who played, cheered, bid, volunteered, and showed up for our youth — thank you. Every point scored and every dollar raised goes toward building a brighter future for young people in Ventura County!
A special thank you to event sponsors and supporters:
City of Port Hueneme
R.E.A.C.H.
GETR Washed
George Thompson Jewelers & Diamond Co.
Locally Maps
Head Pickleball
805 Pickleball Shop
Agape Tennis & Pickleball Academy
LandCare
Trails By Potter
Present with Sound
St VMP LLC
Social Tap Ventura
Extra Virgin Olive Oil Products
Treble Life
Balanced Eating & Lifestyle Coaching
Rich Rollins, Kristi Walsh, Sara Rector, Kathleen Sage, Matt Kernoodle, Andy Reyes, Bret Dubin, Mara Redden, Carolina Gramm, Grace & Roger Rice, Kate Paddock, Angel Gonzalez, Jon Hagstrum, and many others who donated bake sale items and prizes for the gift baskets.
