Four tournaments organized by the Cochrane Indoor Pickleball Association have served up a major assist to the Cochrane Food Bank.
The league recently wrapped up its season with its fourth and final tournament, bringing the total raised to about $1,400 in cash and thousands of dollars in nonperishable donations.
The social side of the sport was on full display during the wrap-up event, where tall tales were shared, laughs echoed, and medals were awarded to tournament winners.
Association chair Bill Cooper said the tournaments and the choice to support the food bank were guided by a survey of their membership.
“The two things people wanted the most were fun tournaments and more social events, and that’s what we provided,” said Cooper. “They said they were committed to supporting the food bank, and we continue to raise funds for it with all our tournaments.”
He said Cochrane Pizza & Grill provided food at a generous discount for the finale, and hundreds of dollars worth of prizes were donated by local merchants. A 50/50 raffle saw the lucky winner walk away with $400, with the other half donated to the food bank.
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It’s a long way from where the league began. Just four years ago, Cooper was booking court time at the Spray Lake Sawmills Centre and offering introductory lessons. What began with 48 participants has grown to over 220 regular players each season—closer to 250 when counting drop-ins.The pickleballers formlaized it into a society this season.
Cooper continues to bring newcomers into the fold, training about 40 people this season alone.
“Watching people come out and enjoy themselves has been huge to me,” he said. “I can’t put into words how much enjoyment I get from it.”
He said having access to the On The Rocks lounge at the SLS Centre has been a key part of their community-building.
“It’s huge,” said Cooper. “We can have our tournaments downstairs and then come upstairs to socialize. It’s a perfect fit.”
The indoor season will resume on Sept. 30. With Bow Valley High School students using the SLS gym in the fall, some schedule adjustments were necessary.
“We’ve been able to work with the SLS Centre to make the numbers work for our sessions, and we’re thrilled with what their staff has been able to do for us,” said Cooper.
