The Tom Tom
Tournament
An annual tradition raising awareness for mental health — bringing people together on and off the court, with proceeds supporting NAMI.
A tournament born from compassion.
In 2016, founder Tom Gawne was inspired to create the Tom Tom Tournament after his own experiences supporting individuals with mental challenges — first as a houseparent during college, and later through pickleball friends raising children with mental illness.
With this perspective, Tom envisioned a way for the pickleball community to show love, raise awareness, and provide support — donating proceeds to NAMI so resources are there for families when they're needed most.
The tournament was founded by Tom Gawne and Tom Dohr in 2016 with one goal: to raise awareness about mental health and support the National Alliance on Mental Illness. What started as a small community event has grown into an annual tradition.
Congratulations to our champions
Gold medal winners from each division at the 2026 Tom Tom Tourney, September 19 at Woodland Park.
More than a game
To support NAMI and raise awareness for mental health issues.
To create a space where players, families, and friends come together as a community.
To honor the vision of the founders who started this event with passion and purpose.
Each year, players and supporters help raise funds that directly support NAMI's programs and outreach.
Together, we're making a difference — one match at a time.
Last year's tournament
In 2025, bad weather moved the tournament indoors to Ace Pickleball Club in Des Plaines. Thank you to owner Jim Baraglia for opening his facility and making the event possible.
See you back on the courts next year.
To our players, volunteers, sponsors, and supporters: thank you for making this year's tournament another success.