Pickleball Tournament Coming to Shabbona School This Saturday

MORRIS, IL – The 2023 Grundy County Corn Festival is bringing back one of its most popular events – the classic pickleball tournament. This year’s co-ed tournament promises to be bigger and better than ever before.

The 24-team double elimination pickleball tournament will take place on Saturday, September 30 at the Shabbona School in Morris, located at 725 School Street. Teams will be randomly matched prior to the event for a fun and fair competition. Participants must remain on-site once the tournament begins until they are eliminated from the bracket.

Pickleball’s popularity has skyrocketed in recent years, with people of all ages getting hooked on this fast-paced paddle sport. As a mix between tennis, badminton, and ping pong, pickleball offers an approachable and addictive game for both new and experienced players.

“We’re thrilled to host this tournament again as part of the Corn Festival,” said Michelle Johnson, event organizer. “It’s a great way to bring the community together for some friendly competition and introduce more people to the wonderful sport of pickleball.”

The school’s four pickleball courts will be in full swing for the tournament. Players can anticipate a full day of rallies, volleys, and good-natured rivalries. Organizers plan to award medals to the top finishing teams.

Registration for the 2023 Corn Festival pickleball tournament is open now at www.cornfestival.org/activities/registrations. The $50 per team fee will cover tournament entry, t-shirt, and lunch. Registration will close on September 23 at 11:59pm.

Spots are sure to fill up quickly, so interested participants are encouraged to sign up soon. The tournament is limited to 24 co-ed teams, with a minimum of 6 women players required per team. Email mjdarin@sbcglobal.net or eightbuck@comcast.net with any registration questions.

Beyond the pickleball tournament, this year’s Corn Festival offers no shortage of entertainment and activities. The festival kicks off on September 29 with a carnival, craft beer tent, bags tournament, corn-hole tournament, and fireworks.

Saturday’s festivities include a parade, 5K race, car show, cornhusking contest, and the ever-popular corn eating contests. Live music will play throughout the afternoon and evening. Sunday wraps up with gospel music, more car shows, cornhole, and the announcement of raffle winners.

Festival attendees can also browse local artisan vendors and enjoy a variety of food options including corn dogs, kettle corn, pulled pork sandwiches, and mini donuts. The Kids Zone provides games, inflatables, and crafts to keep little ones entertained.

“The Corn Festival celebrates everything we love about our community,” said Michelle. “From honoring our agricultural roots to showcasing local talent, it’s a can’t-miss event here in Grundy County.”

The festival serves as the primary fundraiser for the Grundy County Chamber of Commerce. Proceeds support local schools and organizations. With more activities than ever before, the 2023 Corn Festival aims to be the best one yet.

Pickleball fans can look forward to an exciting tournament this year at Shabbona School. For those new to the area or game, the Corn Festival Pickleball Tournament offers the perfect introduction to this addicting paddle sport.

Sign up today for a chance to take home the medals! Registration details can be found at www.cornfestival.org/activities/registrations. Come out September 30 and help us kick off the Corn Festival in style!

News Source:

• https://www.shawlocal.com/morris-herald-news/news/local/2023/09/08/shabbona-school-hosts-pickleball-tournament-saturday-sept-30/
• https://cornfestival.org/activities/pickleball-tournament/
• https://www.philaymca.org/news/pickleball-tournament-rocky-run-ymca
• https://www.villageofparkforest.com/