HUGS Holds 3nd Annual “Paddle for HUGS” Charity Pickleball Tournament

July 25, 2025

HONOLULU – HUGS (Help Understanding & Group Support), a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping Hawaii’s families with seriously ill children will hold their 3rd Annual “Paddle for HUGS” Pickleball Tournament presented by Justine Stamen Arrillaga and John Arrillaga at Kamilo’iki Community Park on November 1, to raise funds for the organization.

“Paddle for HUGS has become a fun and unique way for our community to rally around local families facing the unimaginable.,” said Maureen Purington, HUGS Executive Director. “We’re grateful to see so many people coming together with heart and aloha to support our tournament and Hawaiʻi’s seriously ill children for the third consecutive year.”

Players will be competing in an unsanctioned, mixed doubles, round-robin tournament to support Hawaii’s seriously ill children and their families. The tournament is open to players 13 and older, for players of all skill levels. Medals will be awarded to 1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners for each bracket.

In addition to the tournament, there will be a live performance by ukulele artist and owner of Ukulele Hale, Jody Kamisato. And a special pickleball exhibition by Pickleball Pro Keven Wong, who put on an amazing show for the last two years including hitting pickleballs with various kitchen items. I’m very excited for our 3rd annual Paddle for HUGS pickleball tournament. The growth over the last two years plus the continued support from the community makes this event truly special,” said Keven Wong. “I can’t wait to see what items and equipment Jody Kamisato and the rest of the HUGS team brings for me to play with during the halftime show.”

Player registration is just $70.00 and net proceeds will help support Hawaii’s seriously ill children and their families who are part of the HUGS organization. As of this writing, the event is sponsored by Justine Stamen Arrillaga and John Arrillaga, Waimea Valley, HMAA, Ohana Endoscopy, and The Queen’s Health Systems. Jamba Hawaii is also partnering again with HUGS and will be providing free smoothies to all the players. HUGS supports over 400 families statewide and provides peer support programs for each member of the family and financial assistance including monthly food baskets and airfare assistance.

Media Contact:
Alex Wereszczynskyj
alex@hugshawaii.org