A cause close to home
Duce Robinson, a standout wide receiver for the Florida State Seminoles, is turning his off‑field passion into a community‑building event.
From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Robinson will host a Charity Pickleball Classic at a local Tallahassee venue, inviting players and fans to compete for a good cause.
The fundraiser directly benefits the Special Olympics of Florida, an organization that supports athletes with intellectual disabilities across the state.
Robinson’s personal connection to the cause runs deep; his cousin, who is on the autism spectrum, participates in Special Olympics programs, and several of his managers and trainers have long‑standing ties to the organization.
“Seeing the impact the Special Olympics has on my cousin and so many others motivated me to give back in a way that brings people together,” Robinson said in a statement.
All proceeds from the tournament will be funneled to the Special Olympics of Florida to expand training resources, equipment access and competition opportunities for its athletes.
The event underscores how athletes can leverage their platform to drive tangible support for charitable missions, turning a simple game of pickleball into a catalyst for community uplift.
Community impact
Organizers expect the charity match to draw hundreds of participants, creating a ripple effect of awareness and donations that will help the Special Olympics of Florida broaden its reach.
Local businesses and sponsors have already pledged support, highlighting the growing interest in sports‑driven philanthropy within the region.