West Tennessee Pickleball Association

From Julie Wigger.

I hope you're all doing well. I wanted to share some exciting updates about pickleball events and local organizations making a difference in our community.

As many of you know, I’m the proud owner and director of Hub City Picklers, a for-profit business dedicated to running tournaments, leagues, clinics, lessons, and organizing charity and corporate events. Pickleball is a passion of mine, and I love helping players take their game to the next level through coaching and well-organized events.

One of the most rewarding aspects of my work is collaborating with local non-profits to run fundraiser events. Since there’s always demand, I carefully select causes that resonate with me the most. Today, I want to highlight a non-profit that’s very close to my heart – one that I had the privilege of helping create: the West Tennessee Pickleball Association (WTPA).

The WTPA is Jackson's equivalent to the Milan and Paris Pickleball Clubs, all of which have non-profit status and are dedicated to promoting pickleball and supporting their local communities. The WTPA focuses on raising funds for our beloved courts at Conger Park and is working toward future projects, including the potential development of additional courts at North Park.

So, how does the WTPA raise funds? Through community events, tournaments, and annual membership dues from supporters like you! In less than two years, the WTPA has accomplished some incredible things, including:

• Installing new Selkirk nets on the top courts at Conger

• Adding shades sails between the courts at Conger

• Contributing to the purchase of six new benches at Conger

• Raising funds for the new American flag at Conger

• Installing 12 ball stoppers and a step-through gate

• Hosting the Pickleball Olympics last fall

• Providing cooling towels for the Hub City Spring Showdown

• Supplying refreshments for the upcoming Halloween Smash Bash on October 29

Whew, that’s quite a list! None of it would have been possible without the dedication of the WTPA board, members, and everyone who has participated in these events. YOU are the reason we now have 18 courts at Conger, rather than just 6. Your support has been instrumental in making these improvements a reality.

In late 2022, a committed group from the WTPA worked closely with the City of Jackson, presenting ideas and having meaningful discussions with the mayor and city officials. Thanks to their efforts, the city is now on board with expanding our pickleball facilities. While it will take time and funding, the city recognizes the value of pickleball as a priority for our region.

As the director of Hub City Picklers, I’m proud to support the WTPA and everything it stands for. I encourage you to do the same by continuing to participate in our events and, if you haven’t already, consider becoming a member. Your involvement is key to ensuring the future growth of pickleball in our community.

Here’s the link to join: WTPA Membership Form

Thank you all for your continued support and dedication to the sport we love!