By Ana Ortiz
TAMPA, Fla. —- Dozens gathered at Tampa Pickleball Crew for more than just a friendly match; they came to make a difference. Hosted in support of Kip Hudgins, the fundraiser turned a local pickleball event into a community-wide effort to raise funds and awareness for his recovery.
The fundraiser, hosted on April 17 in the Tampa Pickleball Crew, brought together players of all skill levels for a day of spirited matches, laughter, and generosity.
The event’s proceeds were dedicated to supporting Hudgins’ essential medical expenses and rehabilitation efforts.
Hudgins, known to many in the Tampa area for his warm spirit, suffered a serious accident that left him in need of extensive care. In the face of adversity, friends, family, and the broader Tampa community have rallied behind him in inspiring ways, this fundraiser being one of the most heartfelt efforts yet.
Dene Williamson, a professor of sport management at The University of Tampa and founder of Tampa Pickleball Crew, is known for encouraging students to apply classroom concepts to real-world scenarios through immersive, hands-on experiences.
When news of Kip Hudgins’ accident reached campus, students in her Professional Selling in Sport and Venue and Event Management courses were inspired to take action.
With Williamson’s guidance, the two classes joined forces to organize and execute the fundraiser, ensuring that 100% of the proceeds would benefit the Hudgins family.
“It’s been incredible to do all the behind-the-scenes work and see it come to life, to be here now and see everyone enjoying themselves,” said Carson Denapoly, senior sport management at UTampa. “We decided as a class to pivot where our proceeds were going, and now all of it is going to support Kip in his recovery.”
To maximize attendance and awareness, Denapoly and fellow students promoted the event through campus-wide group chats, sororities, fraternities, and social media. They said this helped rally the university community around a cause that hit close to home.
The Tampa Pickleball Crew location, a vibrant hub for pickleball enthusiasts with 12 courts, was where the event took place. Throughout the hours of 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., attendees had the chance to participate in friendly matches and enjoy popsicles, all while learning more about Hudgins’ story and how they could contribute to his recovery fund.
Those who attended expressed how Hudgins’ story had touched their lives, prompting them to show up and support however they could.
In addition to raising crucial funds, the event succeeded in raising awareness about the power of community-driven support. Attendees were encouraged to share Hudgins’ story on social media, donate online and continue offering their support in the weeks to come.
For many, the fundraiser was more than just an event; it was a reminder of the impact one person can have on a community and the strength that comes from standing together in times of need.
Those who were unable to attend the event can still contribute to Hudgins’ recovery fund. To donate, visit: https://www.gofundme.com/f/kips-journey-back-overcoming-critical-injuries
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Image from GoFundMe update on April 5. Alteration: Logo of Tampa Pickleball Crew on upper right quadrant.