Oxford, AL – The Calhoun County Sports Hall of Fame hosted its inaugural Pickleball Tournament on June 21, 2025, at the Oxford Lake Pickleball Courts, attracting participants from across the region for a day of competitive yet community-driven play.
The tournament, held at 401 McCullars Lane, marked the first time the Hall of Fame has hosted a sporting event of this kind. Organized in partnership with 256 Pickleball and the City of Oxford, the event featured multiple brackets for men’s, women’s, and mixed doubles competitions, including categories for players aged 50 and older.
During the opening ceremony, tournament director Audrey Oswalt was recognized for her efforts in coordinating the event, along with Paul Sparrowhawk, president of 256 Pickleball, and Connie Davidson, president of the Calhoun County Sports Hall of Fame. Oxford City Council member Mike Henderson also welcomed participants, expressing appreciation to all involved and emphasizing the importance of events that promote local athletics and community engagement.
“This is our very first time doing something like this with the Hall of Fame, and I’m just blown away,” said Davidson during her remarks. “Events like this help us continue our mission to recognize outstanding athletic achievement and support future activities.”
The tournament included over a dozen divisions. Notable winners included:
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Men’s Doubles 3.0: Gold – Cody Parton & Deantae Owens; Silver – Brandon Ebel & Corey Wells; Bronze – Adan Berra & Justin Chapman
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Women’s Doubles 3.0: Gold – Elizabeth Ebel & LeaAnn Sheheane; Silver – Cheryle Johnson & Heather McMorris
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Mixed Doubles 3.0: Gold – LeaAnn Sheheane & Corey Wells; Silver – Elizabeth & Brandon Ebel
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Men’s Doubles 4.0: Gold – Tanner Brasher & Paul Sparrowhawk
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Mixed Doubles 3.5 50+: Gold – Derae Keech & Danny Varghese
With over 50 participants and a full bracket of games, the tournament aimed to offer inclusive competition across all experience levels. Organizers ensured well-marked courts, shaded seating, hydration stations, and a strong emphasis on sportsmanship.
With positive community feedback and strong turnout, organizers are hopeful the tournament will become an annual tradition supporting both the Hall of Fame’s mission and the continued growth of pickleball in the area.
