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Northern Virginia’s fourth annual NOVA Amateur Pickleball Tournament raised more than $2,870 for Alzheimer’s awareness, research and related initiatives during a weekend of competition May 30-31, 2026.
The event opened Saturday morning at Rolling Valley West Park, then moved to host sponsor OneLife Fitness in Burke for the rest of the weekend.
Fifty-three players competed as family members, friends and other spectators gathered around the courts. Participants shared breakfast items, while Spartan’s Family Restaurant and Dunya Kabob provided lunch.
Organizers gave each player a mini portable speaker as a thank-you gift. Gift certificates donated by local businesses were also distributed through random drawings.
After weeks of rain, the weather largely cooperated, though players faced breezy conditions.
Competition was divided into two levels. Michele and Kyle Fletcher won the Beginner Division after defeating finalists Eileen Kwak and Sean Buckley. Al Graziano and John Rehberger took the Intermediate Division title with a victory over Lindsay Kwane and Melissa Gezgic.
A raffle featuring donations from local businesses and individuals added to the money collected through registrations and sponsorships. All proceeds—more than $2,870—were donated to support Alzheimer’s-related efforts.
Organizers are already planning next year’s tournament and hope to expand community participation while continuing to support the cause.