By Jim Jacobus

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Not long ago, we had a big event on the calendar here at Corpus Christi Athletic Club Pickleball: a tournament hosted by 002 Pickleball Tournaments, one of the more recognized names in the tournament pickleball world. The dates were set—June 7 and 8—and we were anticipating a fantastic turnout. With a large following and a history of well-run events, we expected over 200 players to show up and play some high-quality, competitive pickleball.

But at one month out, we had only 24 people registered. And none of them were from our local area. So, despite the significant planning and investment that had already gone into the event, we had to cancel. Since then, I’ve heard the same thing from a lot of folks: “Me and my friends were planning to sign up!”

Here’s the deal—planning to sign up doesn’t help a tournament happen. Actually signing up does. So, let’s talk about what it really takes to have “nice things”—like quality pickleball tournaments—in South Texas. And more importantly, what we all can do about it.

1. Venues Must Deliver Value and Promote Well

As a local venue, we know what players expect. They want a fair entry fee and a great experience in return. That means more than just two games. It means a competitive field that’s well matched by skill level, efficient organization, and a facility that supports quality play.

We take those responsibilities seriously. But it’s not enough to just put together a solid event. We also have to promote the tournament far and wide—and early. If players don’t know about it, they can’t come. If they don’t hear enough good things about the experience, they won’t prioritize it.

At Corpus Christi Athletic Club, we’re committed to running high-value, well-organized events. We’ve got eight indoor courts, climate control, great amenities, and a dedicated team. It’s not just CCAC! There are a number of venues in the area that host well run events as well! But even with all that, we need the community’s help to bring tournaments to life.

2. Our Pickleball Community Needs to Support Each Other

We’ve got something special in South Texas. From Al Kruse to Rockport, The Islands to First Baptist, Portland Community Center to RGV Pickleball, San Antonio, and beyond—we’ve got a growing collection of fantastic venues. We’ve also got a passionate and growing player base.

Now, there’s nothing wrong with being loyal to your home courts. That’s part of what makes pickleball great—the friendships, the rivalries, the culture of each court. But if we want to see tournaments thrive, we need to look beyond our own venues. When one of us hosts an event, we need the rest of the community to show up and support it.

Imagine what we could accomplish if we supported each other across venues, even just a couple times a year. Not only would we grow the tournament scene, but we’d also strengthen the entire community in the process.

3. Players Must Step Up—Early and Often

This part is simple: sign up early. Not later. Not someday. If you’re planning to play, don’t wait. Tournaments need early momentum to stay alive. Registrations drive commitment—by players, by organizers, and by sponsors.

Better yet, go one step further. Recruit a friend. Get your group involved. Volunteer to help run the brackets or keep score. Tournaments aren’t just more fun when you participate—they’re even more fun when you’re part of making them happen.

And yes, every venue needs volunteers. From setup to tear-down, refereeing to hospitality, there’s always something that needs doing. If we want the South Texas pickleball scene to keep growing, the fastest way to accelerate it is to jump in and help.

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Here’s the bottom line: South Texas has great pickleball—great venues, great people, and great potential. But we won’t get to enjoy “nice things” like quality tournaments unless we all do our part.

It’s not up to one organizer, one venue, or one city. It’s up to all of us. Let’s build a tournament culture here that reflects the passion and pride we already have for this amazing sport.

So, next time you hear about a tournament? Don’t wait. Sign up. Show up. Step up.

We’ll see you on the courts.

Jim Jacobus
Tournament Director, Corpus Christi Athletic Club
281-725-8367
jim@jjacobus.com