Duce Robinson began playing pickleball three years ago when he was at Southern Cal. A fun, fast-paced sport that has captivated his attention as well as millions around the country, Robinson used the opportunity to raise funds for Special Olympics.

“We were able to raise around $10,000,” Robinson said at the conclusion of the event at the Pickle Pad, off North Monroe Street. “Just to be able to give it all away to the Special Olympics. It’s incredible. It’s been really truly rewarding to see, just to be able to put together an event like this because it shows how much people care.”

A number of FSU football players participated in the Duce Robinson Charity Pickleball Classic and joined in with Tallahassee competitors in an event that was organized by Robinson with help from his parents, Dominic and Mary Beth, and support from FSU athletics. Mike and Maria Norvell supported through their Keep Climbing Family Foundation, with athletes like Charlie Ward (now the men’s basketball coach at Florida A&M) making appearances.

Robinson smiled when asked about which Seminoles were good on the pickleball court. While teasing about a few who weren’t that good, he diplomatically didn’t name any names.

“It looked like Daniel Hughes had some talent, I know Andre’ Otto was out here, Ash Barker and Ma’Khi Jones were playing,” Robinson said. “There were a bunch of guys out here playing today. I think they all looked decent. Then we had some other guys that just did not.”

Robinson promoted the event through his Instagram and spent some time talking about his passion for pickleball at last week’s ACC Kickoff in Charlotte, N.C. On Thursday, at the conclusion of a fun event, Robinson shared his appreciation of the community to support a cause that he and friends have supported.

“It was a true blessing for this many people to come and support the Special Olympics, come and support the Tallahassee community,” Robinson said. “It’s truly an honor and a privilege to be around so many great people.”

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