Paddle for Paws Raises Over $15,000 for STAF

Our third annual Paddle for Paws Pickleball Tournament was an incredible success! Players, volunteers, sponsors, donors and animal lovers came together at The Pickle Lodge at Lunken Landing on September 26 for a fun day of competition benefiting Save The Animals Foundation.

Together, we raised more than $15,000 for the shelter. These funds will help provide food, medical care and second chances for the dogs and cats in STAF’s care.

We extend our sincere thanks to our corporate sponsors and event partners, including The Pickle Lodge, First Student, Waverly Advisors, Linden Grove Agency, and Streetside Brewery, along with everyone who donated raffle prizes! 

We are equally grateful to the volunteers who welcomed and registered players, sold raffle tickets, set up the event, took pictures, brought and showcased some of STAF’s wonderful dogs, and stepped in to assist with scorekeeping and other needs throughout the tournament.

A special shout out also goes to Mitch for volunteering his time and capturing so many terrific moments throughout the event.

View the Paddle for Paws photo gallery.
See more of Mitch’s work.

Congratulations to this year’s medalists:

Competitive

• 1st: Peggy and Brian Hogan
• 2nd: Joe Toigo and Andy Ingal
• 3rd: Kara and Heather Spritzky

Intermediate

• 1st: Harrison Smith and Matthew Armbruster
• 2nd: Sara and Brad Tieke
• 3rd: John Donovan and Massimo LaBella

Beginner

• 1st: Kathleen and Molly Lameier
• 2nd: Brian Hager and April Kissee
• 3rd: Kerri Roush and Madison Marcum

We also celebrated Rex as our Gold Medal Dog. Rex had a winning day at the tournament, but his greatest victory would be finding the forever family he deserves.

Thank you again to everyone who played, volunteered, sponsored, donated or cheered from the sidelines. Your support made Paddle for Paws a memorable day and will make a meaningful difference for STAF’s animals.