Last April, the Pediatric Trauma and Pediatric Burn centers hosted the first annual pickleball festival to support both programs. The efforts were led by Isam Nasr, director of the Pediatric Trauma Program and assistant professor of surgery, and Brian Green, volunteer and pickleball enthusiast. The event drew more than 120 participants and volunteers. It consisted of pickleball clinics for beginners and pickleball tournaments for more advanced players. The pickleball festival yielded a little more than $20,000 through registration, sponsorships and a silent auction.

Since the event was such a success, it will be reprised next spring. Hold the weekend of April 12–14, 2024, for some pickleball fun to support a great cause.