Mountainside Rotary Pickleball Tournament Fundraiser October 10

On a sunny Saturday at Mountainside’s Borough Hall, the Rotary Club served up more than just friendly competition on the newly resurfaced pickleball courts. The club’s ninth annual tournament brought together volunteers, student participants, community leaders, and local business sponsors—all united by one mission: raising funds to support community service.

From 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on October 10, players of various skill levels competed while Rotary members coordinated the event and student volunteers from Governor Livingston High School’s Interact Club kept the tournament running smoothly.

“We raise funds so that we can give back to our community,” said Rotary President Rose Sinisi, explaining the motivation behind the annual event. Mayor Paul Mirabelli attended to support the tournament, noting the partnership between the Rotary Club and the Mayor’s Wellness Campaign. “It’s a collaboration between the Rotary and the Mayor’s wellness program. It’s great for the community, and as always, Rose did a fantastic job.”

The event was a true community effort. Sue Winans, who has played pickleball for about 10 years, assigned courts and coordinated matchups. When asked why she volunteers her time for Rotary, Winans offered a personal answer: “My father was in Rotary, so I have an affinity for the Rotary Club.”

Jim Ruban served as the official scorekeeper and reflected on what makes the tournament special. “The tournament’s fun because it brings a lot of different people of different skill sets, and everybody gets to play, and everybody has fun,” he said. Ruban noted that weather had challenged last year’s tournament—rain interrupted play—making this year’s sunny conditions particularly welcome.

The tournament crowned three tiers of winners. First place went to Jimmy Ruban and Michael Kiesewetter, who received gift certificates from Echo Tap and Grille. Second place winners Aditya Verma and Rob Perasso earned certificates from Spanish Tavern. Third place winners Warren Frank and Michael Osit received gift certificates from Pickleball Kingdom.

But perhaps the most inspiring part of the day came from the student volunteers. Four juniors from Governor Livingston High School’s Interact Club—Caleb, Ryan, Aaron, and Arnav—contributed their time and energy. Interact is an introduction to Rotary and community service for young people.

Caleb was in his first year with Interact, helping to check in participants, share Rotary information, and collect payments. He brought previous volunteer experience, having helped at an Interact car wash that raised money for the Community FoodBank of New Jersey. Reflecting on the experience, Caleb said: “I think what they’re doing for the community is definitely very meaningful.”

Ryan, who plays pickleball himself, helped distribute refreshments and giveaway items and assisted with the raffle. When asked why he volunteered, his answer was straightforward: “I just want to help out the community.”

These student perspectives echo the broader mission that drives Rotary. The Mountainside Rotary Club, chartered in 1961, has supported numerous service projects over the years. The club provides annual scholarships and school service awards and continues to seek ways to strengthen community ties.

Sinisi emphasized that the club wants to remain visible and engaged. “We don’t want to be the best kept secret,” she said, underscoring the importance of community events like the pickleball tournament.

The tournament was supported by local sponsors including Pickleball Kingdom Watchung, Ivy Rehab, and AmeriCare PT. Ivy Rehab’s Mountainside clinic was represented by physical therapist Kelsie Mackinaw, who joined the practice in August 2025 after relocating from Alabama. Ivy Rehab specializes in treating musculoskeletal concerns and difficulties with walking and balance, and also works with student athletes from neighboring schools.

As the tournament wrapped up on Saturday, the Rotary Club was already looking ahead. The next community event is a blood drive scheduled for Saturday, November 14, at the Community Room in Borough Hall—another opportunity for Mountainside residents to give back.

The Mountainside Rotary Club typically meets on Thursday at noon. Evening meetings are generally held on the third Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at an announced location. For those interested in joining or learning more about the club’s work, meetings offer an opportunity to connect with volunteers dedicated to community service.

FAQ

Q: What is the Mountainside Rotary Club, and how long has it been serving the community?
A: The Mountainside Rotary Club was chartered in 1961 and has supported numerous community service projects over the decades. The club provides annual scholarships and school service awards and organizes community events like the pickleball tournament and blood drives. Rotary is an international service organization dedicated to improving communities through volunteer work and fundraising.

Q: What is Interact Club, and why did Governor Livingston students volunteer?
A: Interact is an introduction to Rotary and community service for young people, typically high school students. Student volunteers gain experience in organizing community events, helping those in need, and understanding the value of service. The four juniors who volunteered at the pickleball tournament—Caleb, Ryan, Aaron, and Arnav—represent the next generation of community-minded leaders.

Q: How does the pickleball tournament raise funds for community projects?
A: The tournament generates revenue through participant fees and support from local business sponsors. Prizes are donated by local businesses, which reduces costs and strengthens community partnerships. The funds raised support Rotary’s various community service initiatives, scholarships, and school service awards.

Q: When and where does the Mountainside Rotary Club meet?
A: The club typically meets on Thursday at noon. Evening meetings are generally held on the third Thursday of the month at 5:30 p.m. at an announced location. Those interested in learning more about Rotary’s work or joining the club are welcome to attend.