NFL Legend Jake Plummer Trades Touchdowns for Dink Shots in Charity Pickleball Bash

What's the Score?

Former NFL star Jake Plummer, renowned for his time with the Arizona Cardinals and ASU Sun Devils, is bringing his competitive spirit to the pickleball court by hosting the inaugural "Jake Plummer Pickleball Bash" charity tournament on April 18, 2025, in Tempe, Arizona. Plummer, who has become an enthusiastic pickleball player, is partnering with the Good Sport Foundation for this ProAm event, which will feature celebrity athletes such as Tim Kempton, DJ Foster, Kyle Vanden Bosch, Amy Van Dyken, and Terrell Owens. All proceeds will support the Good Sport Foundation's mission to promote growth, community, education, good health, and hope through pickleball.

Hit it deeper!

Jake Plummer, a beloved figure in Valley sports history, is transitioning his athletic passions from the football field to the burgeoning world of pickleball. After a successful NFL career, including leading the ASU football team to the Rose Bowl and becoming a fan favourite with the Arizona Cardinals, Plummer has embraced pickleball as one of his favourite activities. He recalls getting "hooked" on the sport a few years ago despite the initial soreness.

Now, at age 50, Plummer is not only an advocate for pickleball but is also leveraging his platform to give back through the sport. He is hosting the "Jake Plummer Pickleball Bash" on April 18, 2025, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. at The Picklr in Tempe, Arizona. This charity tournament is inspired by his previous bowl-o-rama events held during his time with the Cardinals.

The event is a ProAm tournament, offering participants the unique opportunity to team up with celebrity athletes. The impressive roster of planned attendees includes former professional athletes from various sports, such as Tim Kempton, DJ Foster, Kyle Vanden Bosch, Amy Van Dyken, and Terrell Owens. Teams can participate for a cost of $2,500, with proceeds directly benefiting the Good Sport Foundation. This organization is dedicated to supporting growth, community, education, good health, and hope through global grassroots efforts within the sport of pickleball.

While Plummer admits his playing style is now "a bit more subdued" in his older age, focusing on "grace and finesse" rather than aggressive smashing, his enthusiasm for the sport is evident. He sees this tournament as a way to combine his love for pickleball with his desire to make a positive impact in the community through the Good Sport Foundation. The event promises to be a fun and engaging day, bringing together sports legends and pickleball enthusiasts for a worthy cause.

The World Pickleball Verdict

Jake Plummer's decision to host a charity pickleball tournament highlights the growing appeal and mainstream recognition of the sport. His involvement, along with the participation of other notable athletes, further elevates pickleball's profile and demonstrates its capacity to bring people together for a good cause. The "Jake Plummer Pickleball Bash" is not just a sporting event; it's a testament to the charitable potential of pickleball and the willingness of prominent figures to use their influence to support community initiatives. This event is likely to generate significant interest and funds for the Good Sport Foundation, contributing to the continued growth and positive impact of pickleball on a global scale.