DOTHAN, Ala. — Art in Public Places will host its inaugural Masterpiece Classic pickleball tournament fundraiser Saturday, Sept. 12, at the new Dothan Pickleball Complex.
According to Art in Public Places, the recreational tournament is open to players of all skill levels and will feature open mixed doubles competition across 10 courts.
The Masterpiece Classic is the first fundraiser organized and led by the APP Junior Board, a group of 26 high school civic leaders. Proceeds will support Junior Board scholarships and the APP Mural Program, which brings public artwork to locations throughout Dothan.
“To me, the APP Junior Board means the opportunity to be a part of something bigger than ourselves. We’re on this board because we love bringing art and our community together,” said Houston Academy 11th grader Anna Lee Seltenpohl. “Public art beautifies Dothan, and leaves people feeling inspired. It makes the Circle City a place we are all proud to call home.”
The Junior Board was selected through an interview process last spring and was tasked with creating a fundraiser. Members have worked together to organize the tournament, secure sponsorships and promote the event.
“Pickleball players should participate in the Masterpiece Classic because it is a great way to support the art community by doing something fun. Pickleball is such a popular sport and since all the proceeds go directly to scholarships and events, we thought it was a great idea for a fundraiser,” said Dani Arrington, a senior at Cottonwood High School.
The tournament will begin with pool play at 9 a.m., followed by tiered bracket competition in the afternoon. Each team is guaranteed at least four games. Awards will be presented at 5 p.m., with overall tournament winners receiving one-of-a-kind handmade awards.
Coca-Cola Dothan is sponsoring the event and will provide drinks, snacks and lunch for players and sponsors.
Registration is open at artinpublicplaces.art. Regular pricing is $60 per person or $110 per team through Aug. 27. Registration includes a tournament T-shirt, swag bag and access to the hospitality tent.
Players may register individually and be matched with a partner by Aug. 27.
