Bigger Together, One Rally at a Time

A Weekend of Community and Competition in Port Elgin

Editor's Note: Article submitted by the Big Brothers Big Sisters Grey, Bruce and West Simcoe

On June 20th–21st, the pickleball community from Grey, Bruce, and West Simcoe gathered  for the 4th Annual Bigger Together Charity Pickleball Tournament, held in memory of Pam  Rowcliffe. Hosted in partnership with Taylored Pickleball Academy and Lakeshore  Recreation Centre, the event welcomed more than 75 new and returning participants to  beautiful Port Elgin for a weekend of fun, competition, and community impact. 

The weather was on our side, with blue skies and plenty of sunshine creating perfect  conditions for exciting rallies. Players went head-to-head in friendly competition across  the Challenge and Rally divisions; a new tournament feature introduced this year. 

Thank You to Our Sponsors and Donors

We are grateful to our sponsors for helping make this year's event a success: Rotary Club of Port Elgin, Carson Supply, and Coca-Cola Bottling Company. We thank Lakeshore  Recreation Centre for allowing us to use their beautiful courts at no cost.

We also extend our sincere thanks to our in-kind donors: Southampton Olive Oil Company, Owen Sound Pickleball Club, Little Black Dog Catering, The Cook's Cupboard, Allure Medical Aesthetic, Emily McCracken Photography, and Kasa Design + Build.

More Than Pickleball

Filled with smiles, laughter, and sportsmanship, the community spirit was palpable  throughout the weekend. This event was about more than pickleball; it was about creating  brighter futures for local young people. Congratulations to all of the tournament winners,  and heartfelt thanks to everyone who played, volunteered, donated, or cheered from the  sidelines. A special thank you goes to the many dads who spent part of their Father's Day  weekend rallying support for youth mentorship. 

A Reflection of Our Community's Values

What makes this tournament so special is the way it reflects the values of our community - people showing up for one another, giving generously of their time, and creating opportunities for young people to thrive. The connections built over this weekend mirror the  very essence of mentorship: bringing people together, fostering belonging, and  strengthening our community for the future. We are incredibly grateful to everyone who  continues to make this event a meaningful tradition. - Beth Aubrey, Executive Director, Big  Brothers Big Sisters of Grey Bruce and West Simcoe

Building a Meaningful Tradition

Since 2023, the Annual Bigger Together Charity Pickleball Tournament has raised more  than $15,000 to help fund free mentorship programs that foster confidence, resilience,  well-being, and connection for local youth. What began as a community tournament has grown into a meaningful tradition that brings people together around a shared commitment  to supporting the next generation. As the demand for mentoring continues to grow across  our community, events like this play a vital role in ensuring that BBBS programs remain  accessible and free to families. Stay tuned to our social media channels for this year's final  fundraising total..

We're Proud to Be Bigger Together

When a community comes together around a shared purpose, the impact extends far  beyond a single weekend. Thank you to the event's supporters for being part of a movement  that is building brighter futures, one young person at a time. We’re proud to be Bigger Together.