Pickleball Enthusiasts to Compete in Tournament to Help Raise Funds for New Ambulance

Local athletes gather for the Duck Pluckers Pickleball Tournament on February 28, 2026, at Grip & Sip promoting community fun and sportsmanship.

Shannon Fraley

Jan 23, 2026 1:06 PM

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ALTON — Local athletes and community members are invited to pick up their paddles for the Duck Pluckers Pickleball Tournament, taking place on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Grip & Sip.

As pickleball continues its surge as the fastest-growing sport in the nation, this local event aims to bring together players of all skill levels for a day of competitive play and community building. The tournament will feature Mixed Doubles divisions, with round-robin play followed by a single-elimination bracket to determine the champions.

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“We are thrilled to host this event at Grip & Sip” said Shannon Fraley, Manager of Alton Memorial Health Service Foundation. The Foundation hosts the Duck Pluckers, Deer Skinners and Fish Hookers Ball ever year in the fall. “The Duck Pluckers Ball is our signature fundraising event, but we know that not everyone is into hunting or fishing” which is the theme of the long-standing event. “This new event will broaden our support base and bring everyone together to have some fun while working towards our goal of putting a new ambulance on the streets of our community.”

Event Details:

What: Duck Pluckers Pickleball Tournament
When: February 28, 2026
Where: Grip & Sip, 139 W McArthur Drive, Cottage Hills, IL 62018
Registration: Open now through February 27th. Interested participants can sign up via the event website at: Duck Plucker Pickleball Tournament 2026

Spectators are encouraged to attend and cheer on the athletes. In addition to the matches, the event will feature a local food vendor and refreshments available through Grip & Sip’s signature beverage service.

For more information regarding sponsorship opportunities or registration details, please visit the event website or contact Shannon Fraley at Shannon.Fraley@bjc.org or 618-463-7701

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