San Juan College Foundation to host pickleball fundraiser Jan. 23–25

A three-day indoor pickleball tournament at San Juan College will bring players and spectators to the Health and Human Performance Center Jan. 23–25 to raise money for student scholarships and college programs. The event will use six indoor courts and accommodate players from low intermediate to advanced levels, organizers said.

Tournament Director LeAnn Magnuson emphasized the fundraiser’s role in supporting students. “Every participant in the tournament is directly supporting the San Juan College Foundation and helping fund student scholarships,” said Tournament Director LeAnn Magnuson. Magnuson noted the event has grown from a small fundraiser into a major regional event, increasing community support and awareness across the Four Corners area.

Activities begin Friday, Jan. 23, at 5:30 p.m. with a tournament reception, raffle and open-play mixer. Admission for the reception is $10 and includes a charcuterie table and access to a silent auction. Competitive play starts Saturday, Jan. 24, at 8 a.m. with men’s and women’s doubles round-robin matches. The tournament concludes Sunday, Jan. 25, beginning at 8 a.m. with mixed doubles round-robin play.

Sponsors supporting the tournament include Horizon Power Systems, The Lyons Group, Southwest Senior Advisors and APS, providing underwriting that helps direct proceeds to the San Juan College Foundation. The combination of social events and competitive matches is intended to draw both local players and visitors from the broader Four Corners region.

Those not competing are encouraged to attend as spectators or purchase raffle tickets to further support the foundation’s mission. Spectators should enter through the designated parking lot entrance at the Health and Human Performance Center. Registration for players remains open through Jan. 18 at pickleballden.com. For questions, contact LeAnn Magnuson at (505) 566-3522 or magnusonl@sanjuancollege.edu.

Local impact extends beyond scholarships. The tournament channels community recreation into tangible financial aid for students, highlights San Juan College’s facilities and brings weekday evening and weekend activity to nearby businesses. For residents, the event is a direct way to support campus programs while enjoying accessible sporting events and community gatherings.

The takeaway? Attend the reception for a low-cost way to support scholarships, buy raffle tickets to increase your impact, and register or arrive early if you plan to compete or spectate. Our two cents? Bring friends, plan for the designated parking entrance, and use the event to connect with fellow Four Corners neighbors while backing local students.