The Sports Management Club, in collaboration with the Student Government, hosted a Doubles Pickleball Tournament on Tuesday, April 14, from 2 to 6 p.m. at the pickleball courts next to Seton Hall. The event aimed to introduce the club and bring students together through a fun and competitive campus activity.
Source: Nicholas Bosticco, Staff Writer
“The doubles pickleball tournament is a fun, free event on campus designed to introduce the new sports management club and attract potential members,” said sophomore Jacqueline Paradiso, president of the Sports Management Club. “We wanted to launch the club in an engaging and exciting way by using a sport that’s very popular on campus.”
Pickleball, which has rapidly gained popularity among college students in recent years, was chosen intentionally to draw interest and encourage participation. Its accessibility and fast-paced playing made it appealing to both experienced players and beginners playing in the event, which makes it feel more inclusive.
“If I had to describe the event in one word, it would be exciting,” said junior Courtney Reynolds, the club’s vice president.
Participants registered in advance through a QR code shared on Instagram and through campus-wide emails. While registrations filled up before the event, students who were unable to secure a spot were still encouraged to attend, watch and support their peers throughout the competition.
The event represented a successful return after previous attempts to host the tournament were canceled due to unpredictable weather conditions. Organizers saw this year’s tournament as a second chance to realize their vision, with improved planning and support from the Student Government.
“We actually attempted to host this event last year, but it was unfortunately canceled due to unpredictable weather, so we’re excited to bring it back even better this year, through collaboration with Student Government,” said Paradiso.
Beyond competition, the tournament emphasized the importance of student involvement and engagement. The event allows students to connect with peers outside of their usual social life and academic pursuits, creating a strong sense of community.
“Events like this are important for students because they bring people together, build school spirit, and give students a break from academics,” said Reynolds.
One of the biggest highlights of the event was the impressive turnout and the overall atmosphere. Even students who weren’t playing stay to support their friends, which helps keep the energy up throughout the tournament.
“What stood out the most about the event was a strong turnout and the positive, energetic atmosphere throughout the tournament,” said Reynolds. “Even if people weren’t playing, they were still cheering on their friends, which was great to see.”
Prizes also added to the excitement and competitiveness of the event.
“Adding the prize of Apple watches and JBL speakers made it more fun and competitive for everyone,” said Reynolds.
The doubles pickleball tournament was considered a success, combining competition, community, and fun. With a strong turnout and positive feedback, it showed how campus events like this can bring students together in a meaningful way.
“People could expect a mix of friendly competition and high energy,” said Reynolds. “We had a total of 24 teams sign up, which was awesome.
