Monday, April 1, 2024–8:52 a.m.

-News Release-

It’s one of the fastest-growing sports in America, and later this month, area residents will play Pickleball to help support a valuable community service and promote awareness of child abuse prevention.

The Family Resource Center’s Spring Challenge Pickleball tournament is on April 13 and 14 at the Rome Downtown Racquets Center.  

Play will begin at 8 AM each day, with gender doubles on Saturday and mixed doubles on Sunday. All ages and play levels are welcome.  Registration for one day is $35 or $45 for both days.    

Chase Tolbert, FRC board member and tournament chairperson, said, “This event takes place during Child Abuse Prevention Month.  We want to support the work of the Family Resource Center and raise awareness about how small actions impact the health and safety of children and families.” Tolbert added, “We’re grateful to the Rome Downtown Racquets Center for their partnership in running this tournament. This Center is a true asset to our City.”  

The tournament is presented by The Spires at Berry College and Benjamin F. Edwards & Co.    

Family Resource Center (FRC) Executive Director Tina Bartleson commented, “This year’s theme for Child Abuse Prevention Month is “Building a Hopeful Future Together,” and we love the idea of combining play and information.”  FRC provides free in-home support and education to families who may feel overwhelmed or want to grow stronger as parents. The Center uses the evidence-based Exchange Parent Aide model. Families work with Parent Aides once a week for up to a year, supporting changes that improve their well-being.    

For more details on the tournament, or to register, go to Pickleballbrackets.com and search Spring Challenge tournament or https://bit.ly/FRCpickleball