The Physician Assistant program at Campbell University hosted its inaugural pickleball tournament this past Saturday, raising approximately $11,000 in support of Make-A-Wish Eastern North Carolina.
Held at Peak Sports in Apex, the event marked a new chapter in a long-standing tradition of service. For more than a decade, Campbell PA students have organized annual fundraisers for Make-A-Wish, historically hosting golf tournaments at Keith Hills. This year, the 15th PA class brought fresh energy to the effort with a pickleball tournament that welcomed 24 teams and 48 players across men’s, women’s, and coed divisions.
Students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community members came together for a day of friendly competition, all united by a shared mission to grant life changing wishes for children facing critical illnesses.
“I was excited to see how this new format would come together, and it exceeded every expectation,” said student leader Ethan Crow. “From the energy on the courts to the support from our community, it was incredibly rewarding to watch so many people come together for such a meaningful cause. This event would not have been possible without the dedication of our Make-A-Wish team and the generosity of our sponsors and donors.”
Representatives from Make-A-Wish Eastern North Carolina added a meaningful and personal dimension to the event through their presence and remarks. Cameron Minor, a wish alumnus who now works with the organization, shared his journey and the lasting impact of a wish experience. Gary Lee, a former wish parent, spoke about his son’s story and the profound difference Make-A-Wish made for their family. Nick Eichen, Director of Operations and Development, also attended and helped connect participants to the mission, reminding everyone how their support directly transforms lives.
The event also featured a silent raffle with standout prizes, including an overnight stay with dinner and breakfast at the Carolina Inn, Sleepy’s Deluxe Charcoal Cool pillows from Mattress Firm, an Eko CORE 500 stethoscope from Eko Health, and a laser tag party package from Battle House Laser Tag.
A special highlight of the day was the support from title sponsor Mt. Olive Pickle Company, which contributed $2,500. With a name perfectly suited for the sport, Mt. Olive added a fitting and lighthearted touch to the tournament while making a meaningful impact on its success.
Additional support came from Sam Jones BBQ, which generously donated 100 boxed lunches, as well as premium sponsors Julia Niemi (Campbell PA Class of 2017), Wake Emergency Physicians PA, and First Security Inc.
“We are incredibly proud of our students for their leadership, creativity, and commitment to service,” said Laura Gerstner, chair of the Department of Physician Assistant Practice. “This event reflects the heart of our program and the compassion our students bring to their future roles as healthcare providers. Their efforts will make a meaningful difference in the lives of children and families across eastern North Carolina.”
Organizers expressed their gratitude to everyone who made the event possible, including the planning team, volunteers, sponsors, and all who participated or donated.
Tournament Winners
- Men’s Division 1st Place: Dink Floyd – Chris Mitchell and Jason Seelye
- Women’s Division 1st Place: Drop Shot Divas – Molly Welch and Nicole Santos
- Coed Division 1st Place: FROM THE CITY – David Park and Annabelle Kim
With strong participation, community support, and a successful first year in the books, the Campbell PA program looks forward to continuing this new tradition of giving, one serve at a time.
