The All Florida Pickleball team loves hosting community events that bring people together for fun and excitement. Last year's Florida Summer Smash was an OPEN division cash payout event full of unexpected twists and turns. When Margaritaville Anna Maria Sound reached out to collaborate on a tournament, our excitement soared, and we knew we had to make Year 2 even better. This year, we had the unique opportunity to host the tournament on Jimmy Buffett Day (September 30th) and introduced something new—a singles event. With Buffett's tunes setting the mood, over 80 players competed in singles, including 28 in the OPEN division. Jake Bower claimed the cash prize and the title with a surprising win over Dustin Boyer, while former professional baseball player Billy Cooke made a memorable debut by taking home the bronze.
A highlight this year was the player party, a new addition to the event. Players staying at Margaritaville were treated to a happy hour with drinks and food, mingling with Graham D'Amico, owner of the Florida Smash, and Luke Burton, producer of the Tennis Sucks Podcast. The gathering was filled with captivating stories of pickleball journeys and an inside look at life on the pro circuit.
Saturday was a day to remember, with Men's and Women's Doubles drawing over 200 players for rally scoring events. Fun prizes like the "Sock It to ‘Em" contest had everyone talking—teams who won by 7 or more points earned a pair of high-quality, stylish Addict Pickleball socks. The competitive spirit was high, with bounties placed on teams that finished first in their pools. Any team that knocked a bounty team into the losers' bracket could win a popsicle from King of Pop's or take a chance at a once-in-a-lifetime pull from the treasure box. The atmosphere only got better when live music, courtesy of our title sponsor Margaritaville, filled the air from 12 to 2. Check out all the winners on the tournament website!
Day 3 was all about Mixed Doubles—a true test of teamwork (and sometimes marriages!) in pursuit of Gold Medals. More than 80 teams took part, and the rally scoring format proved to be no match for the seasoned players. Joshua Elliott from the Jacksonville Suns and Mandy Gabriel of the GNV Swamp took the gold over All Florida Tournament veterans Dhruv Patel and Kara Evans.
Overall, it was an incredible event with over 350 players registering and having the time of their lives. The feedback from participants was unanimous: “We can't wait for next year!” Plans are already underway for Year 3, with even more fun in store. The All Florida Pickleball team is deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve the community and spread joy. This event wouldn't have been possible without the support of the MLP Team, the Florida Smash, and our wonderful partners—Sundaze Rays, HYDRX, Canary, Club Pickle, and Dwell Pickleball.
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