2nd Annual Pickleball Tournament: Battle of the Badge Brings Community Together
This year’s event welcomed incredible participation from local departments, including the Menomonee Falls Fire Department, Milwaukee Fire Department, Neenah Fire & Rescue, Milwaukee Police Department, and Lake Country Fire & Rescue. Their enthusiasm, teamwork, and competitive spirit helped create an unforgettable atmosphere both on and off the court.
From the first serve to the final match, Battle of the Badge showcased what makes our community strong — collaboration, camaraderie, and a shared commitment to making a difference.
A Day Full of Impact
The tournament featured:
Competitive pickleball matchups between first responders and community participants and an exhibition match featuring Milwaukee Fire Department Chief Aaron Lipski and newly retired Assistant Chief, Nicole Waldner.
A strong turnout of supporters, families, and volunteers
A high-energy raffle with exciting prizes
Opportunities for meaningful engagement between departments and the community
More Than a Game
While the competition brought excitement, the true purpose of the event was impact. Proceeds from the tournament directly support the Donald Driver Foundation’s mission to provide resources and opportunities that empower youth through education, health, and wellness initiatives.
Thank You to Our Community
We extend our sincere gratitude to every participant, volunteer, sponsor, and supporter who made this event a success. Your involvement continues to strengthen our mission and expand our reach.
Battle of the Badge is more than a tournament — it’s a reflection of what can happen when a community comes together with purpose.
We look forward to building on this momentum and making next year even bigger.