Straface, Slomkowski win First Pickleball Tournament 

On Friday, April 25, students and staff gathered for the first time for a fun and friendly pickleball tournament that brought energy, excitement, and a sense of community to the school. With 132 students participating and even a few teachers joining in, the event gave participants a chance to take a break from their normal school day and compete in a positive, but competitive, atmosphere.

Senior Drew Slomkowski and Sophomore Anthony Straface were crowned the winners after hours of tough competition. 

Math teacher Tom Stolp, one of two teachers who participated, said the event was both fun and challenging. “The most challenging part of the tournament was a lot of waiting and watching the teams,” he said. “We played like 7-8 games with various teams. The last game was the most challenging because that team was the best.”

Despite the competition, Mr. Stolp emphasized the positive impact the event had on building relationships. “You form a bond with a lot of the students,” he said. “It was fun to high five, play, and bust chops with students like Anthony [Straface] and Drew [Slomkowski], who I had in class.”

Slomkowski agreed that the day brought everyone closer. “It was a lot of fun,” he said. “I think it was a good thing to bring the students and staff together, especially as the end of the year is near. It gave us a little break from school work.”

For Slomkowski, the biggest challenge was playing against students with more experience. “Playing against the kids that play tennis was definitely tough,” he said; but, it all paid off in the end. “Winning the tournament was a great moment. As soon as we scored the last point, it was an immediate feeling of excitement.”

The tournament created a fun, upbeat atmosphere across the gym. Students cheered each other on, snacked, and enjoyed the day together. “Everyone was having a good time,” Slomkowski said. “I feel like students came to school the next Monday feeling good because the staff gave them a day off to have fun.”

Both Stolp and Slomkowski said they’d love to see more participation in the future. “Of course I’d do it again,” Stolp said. “Pickleball? Of course. It’s my game.”

Slomkowski added, “We had 132 students playing, and our school has around 1,200 students. I think there’s definitely room for more next year.”

From friendly competition to new memories between students and staff, the 2025 pickleball tournament served up more than just points—it served up school spirit.