More than 120 players packed the Soo Pee Wee Arena this weekend as the citywide Pickleball Palooza returned for another year of busy action.
Hosted by Soo Pickleball, the event featured competitors of all ages and skillsets who hit the courts yesterday and today.
The tournament, which was held in support of the Algoma Autism Foundation, has raised more than $6,700 for the non-profit so far.
The organization was created in 2013 and supports people with Autism Spectrum Disorder in Sault Ste. Marie by fostering acceptance and providing opportunities, tools, and education for those who are on the spectrum.
Soo Pickleball, meanwhile, was founded in 2020. The group received a huge boost to its programming when eight new pickleball courts were built at the Elliott Sports Complex the year after.
They were recognized as an affiliated club of Pickleball Canada and Ontario in 2022, making them eligible to host larger events like last summer's Ontario North Region Championship.
Following a busy summer last year and formative winter this year, the club has grown to more than 600 active members.