YMCA Of Metro North Pickleball Tournament To Raise Money For Youth Programs

PEABODY, MA — Pickleball players from across the North Shore are invited to show off their skills and compete to benefit the YMCA of Metro North youth programs.

The second annual pickleball tournament will be held at branch locations in Lynn, Melrose, Peabody and Saugus with the finals of the men's doubles and women's doubles division on Monday at the Damakes Family YMCA in Lynn.

The cost per team is $50.

The first YMCA of Metro North Tournament winners, Vin Grifoni and Scott Zalvan, will compete again to defend their title.

"Pickleball has brought so many people in our community together for a fun, friendly sport. The tournament will give all the 'picklers' from the area a chance to come together and test their skills," said Kathleen Walsh, President and CEO of YMCA of Metro North. "At the YMCA, we are committed to nurturing the potential of every child and teen in our community. This tournament not only promotes healthy competition but all dollars raised allows us to make a positive impact on the lives of young individuals by providing them with resources and opportunities to thrive."

Programs set to benefit from the tournament include summer camps, afterschool programs, educational enrichment activities, and youth sports.

"Pickleball is a great sport that attracts people from all walks of life. I enjoy the sport and the competition because it provides exercise, good sportsmanship and I’m excited to play to support the Y," Grifoni said. "Personally, I discovered Pickleball to be a social and fun game to play for men and women of all ages. It is an honor and privilege for me to participate in such a noteworthy fundraising tournament that will help provide educational programs and special events for our youths at the YMCA of Metro North."

Registration is now open and can be done here or by calling 978-548-5068.

(Scott Souza is a Patch field editor covering Beverly, Danvers, Marblehead, Peabody, Salem and Swampscott. He can be reached at Scott.Souza@Patch.com. X/Twitter: @Scott_Souza.)