By Taylor J. Hale 

Staff Writer

STEVENS POINT – SentryWorld partnered with Special Olympics Wisconsin (SOWI) for the second annual SOWI Golf & Pickle Ball Classic fundraiser on Sept. 10.

Golfers and pickleball enthusiasts from around the state gathered at Sentry grounds for a morning of athleticism, community, and sportsmanship, with tournament entry fees and silent auction funds benefitting SOWI efforts.

The 2019 event saw 36 pickleball players and 72 golfers.

“This is the first year for the pickleball tournaments at the fundraiser,” said Marcie Mirman, head of the tournament and avid pickleball player. “Last year they tried to include tennis, but not many people signed up.”

Pickleball event leaders Marcie Mirman and Andrea Ingvalson speak on Sept. 10. Taylor Hale photo.

Event organizers noted that the switch was well-received by the public. Mirman and her peers were excited to see the community attracted to the sport. “It’s key for our participants to meet and play against different people who have a passion for pickleball,” she said. “We are here for them, and just raising money for a great cause.”

SOWI Special Events Director Miranda Haima was at the fundraiser and was thrilled to see Portage County unite for a good cause. “Today is a day of celebration and fundraising for Special Olympics Wisconsin,” Haima said.

Contact Taylor J. Hale at [email protected] with Portage County news and information.