Stop Alzheimer’s Now Raises $65,000 at 2024 CO UPA State Championship Pickleball Tournament for Alzheimer’s Research

Stop Alzheimer’s Now (SAN) is thrilled to announce the success of the 2024 CO UPA State Championship Pickleball Tournament, held from September 13-15 at the newly opened Steamboat Tennis & Pickleball Center in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. As the first UPA event to also serve as a charity fundraiser, 100% of player registration fees will directly support cutting-edge Alzheimer’s research.

With nearly 200 players registered, the tournament, directed by Mike Hoxie of Pickleball is Great (PIG), was a vibrant and competitive gathering of pickleball enthusiasts from across the state. The event was further energized by CO local professional pickleball player Jayson Harris and Shaun McDuffee, founder of Stop Alzheimer’s Now, who both played pivotal roles in leading the tournament and engaging participants.

In addition to the thrilling matches, the event featured several exciting fundraising activities including a Pro Exhibition game featuring SAN Ambassadors Courtney Zalinski & Olivia McMillan, Player Party, pickleball 'trick games' and contests, and a raffle packed with incredible prizes. These efforts helped raise nearly $65,000, which will be directly applied to Alzheimer’s research through Stop Alzheimer’s Now in the form of a research grant to be awarded in 2025.

The generosity of the pickleball community, sponsors, volunteers, and vendors made this event a monumental success. Their contributions and enthusiasm not only helped raise vital funds for Alzheimer’s research but also united participants in the common goal of finding a cure for this devastating disease.​

“We are overwhelmed by the support and participation at this year’s tournament. It’s truly inspiring to see so many people rally together for a cause that affects millions of families around the world. Every dollar raised brings us one step closer to finding a cure for Alzheimer’s” - Shaun McDuffee, founder of Stop Alzheimer’s Now.

SAN extends heartfelt thanks to all the players, sponsors, volunteers, and vendors who made this event possible. We cannot wait to be back in 2025 for another impactful tournament, building on this year’s incredible momentum in the fight against Alzheimer’s disease.

For more information about Stop Alzheimer’s Now and its mission, please visit www.stopalzheimersnow.org