Dear Pickleball Patriots,
On September 11 2025, we commemorate the 24th anniversary of the tragic 9/11 terrorist attacks, which claimed 2,977 people and injured thousands at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and in Somerset County, Pennsylvania.
First responding police, firefighters, paramedics, and other emergency personnel rushed into danger to save lives. For two decades following the attack, military service members sacrificed overseas to fight a war on terrorism. Beyond the immediate response and wars, many 9/11 first responders and military personnel have faced long-term health issues, including respiratory illnesses, cancers, and mental health conditions.
This year the Columbus / Fort Benning pickleball community will join the Great American Pickleball Club Challenge (GAPCC). As a part of the GAPCC, every pickleball club in America is invited to join a meaningful movement supporting first responders, military personnel, and their families.
The GAPCC national webpage is www.9112025.org and is organized by Billy McGehee www.bmwopb.com who has invited Columbus / Fort Benning to join the nation's pickleballers to support our country's finest who are still affected by the attack 24 years ago.
Doug Miller
details of the GAPCC at fort benning's pickleball courts
Who:
Anyone can be a part of the Great American Pickleball Club Challenge! Columbus Municipal League Pickleball invites you to play, support, volunteer, or just come have a good time.
What:
Pickleball clubs and players across the United States will play pickleball on the 9/11 anniversary. This is a country-wide satellite event where Columbus / Fort Benning players join dozens of other clubs who will also play the same day!
Locally, players and participants will enjoy some friendly competition and camaraderie for a great cause.
Many Americans sacrificed abroad and at home to support the troops, police, firefighters, and paramedics. Participants are invited to bring a photograph of themselves, a loved one, a family member, a friend, a neighbor, a stranger, or anyone who contributed to the effort on 9/11 and the subsequent 24 years. A table will be set up to honor their sacrifices and we will dedicate each game we play to a patriot.
Pickleballs and paddles will be provided. Courts will be organized into beginner, intermediate, and advanced skill levels. Instructors will be on site to teach a clinic to new players.
Where:
Fort Benning Pickleball Courts on Sightseeing Road.
When:
Thursday, September 11, 2025 from 1700 (5pm) until 2000 (8pm).
Why:
1. Remember the 2,997 people that perished on 9/11 in New York, Washington DC, and Pennsylvania on 9/11/2001.
2. Recognize 24 years of tough sacrifices made by countless first responders, military personnel, and families.
3. Have fun on the pickleball court and fully appreciate our lives after those that gave the ultimate sacrifice no longer can.
Fort benning visitor access pre-registration:
Visitors are welcome to Fort Benning and must pre-register online OR register at the Visitor Center at the post's main entrance on I-185. The pre-registration website is (https://pass.aie.army.mil/steps/special_event_pass/event_detail)
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