On Friday evening, October 3, the sound of paddle smacks and laughter will echo through Wolverine Pickleball in Ann Arbor. But this isn’t just any ordinary night of pickleball—this is the Serve It Forward Pickleball Mixer, a spirited community fundraiser to benefit The Women’s Center of Southeastern Michigan. Imagine a cross between a dance party, a friendly sports tournament and a trivia night, all wrapped in the neon glow of pickleball courts. That’s the vibe.
Pickleball with a purpose
Pickleball has experienced explosive growth in popularity over the past few years, attracting players of all ages with its straightforward rules and infectious fun. But on this special night, every serve, volley and rally will ripple beyond the court.
Proceeds support The Women’s Center, an organization providing counseling, support groups and career services for women across southeastern Michigan.
Courts, challenge matches and comedy
Wolverine Pickleball’s sprawling indoor courts will be buzzing with activity. New to the game? No worries. “Learn to Play” sessions will gently introduce beginners to the basics.
More seasoned players can hop into a round robin for casual fun, while the bold can take a swing on the Challenge Court—where bragging rights are up for grabs against a pro or VIP opponent.
Of course, no one will be keeping score too seriously. With so much laughter and camaraderie, the real winners will be the Women’s Center and the community it serves.
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Beyond the Court: Trivia, Bingo and Bocce
Not feeling sporty? No problem. The organizers thought of everything. Between games, guests can try their hand at trivia or bingo for prizes, or head outside for bocce ball and cornhole. Whether your competitive spirit shines through a paddle, a trivia buzzer or a beanbag toss, there’s a game for everyone.
And did we mention a DJ will keep the soundtrack rolling all evening? Picture yourself dancing with a paddle in one hand and a taco in the other—it’s that kind of night.
A feast fit for a fundraiser
Of course, pickleball burns calories. Luckily, Miss Kim and Little Kim, Ann Arbor’s beloved Korean-inspired kitchens, will be serving up exclusive eats just for the event. Foodies can nibble between games, sip from the tap wall with a wristband, and recharge for the next round.
The price of admission
Tickets run $100, and include:
- Food from some of Ann Arbor’s favorite chefs
- Access to Wolverine Pickleball’s courts and instruction
- Music, trivia, bingo, bocce, cornhole and prizes
- The knowledge that your good time is directly supporting an essential community resource
Discounts may be available for educators, social workers and young professionals, but tickets are limited. As with pickleball itself, the early bird gets the serve.
Serving it forward
What makes this event special is the spirit behind it. The Women’s Center of Southeastern Michigan helps women rebuild their lives, find new paths and rediscover their strengths. By coming together on the pickleball court, the community is saying: we see you, we support you, and we’re ready to rally.
So, whether you’re a seasoned pickleball pro, a trivia buff, or simply someone looking for a Thursday night adventure, grab your paddle—or just your party shoes—and join the crowd at Wolverine Pickleball.
Game. Set. Match. And most importantly—serve it forward.
Donna Marie Iadipaolo is a writer, journalist, and State of Michigan certified teacher, since 1990. She has written for national publications like The Village Voice, Ear Magazine of New Music, Insurance & Technology, and TheStreet.
She is now writing locally for many publications, including Current Magazine, Ann Arbor Family, and the Ann Arbor Independent. Her undergraduate degree is from the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, where she graduated with an honors bachelor’s degree and three teacher certificate majors: mathematics, social sciences, English. She also earned three graduate degrees in Master of Science, Master of Arts, and Education Specialist Degree.
