Panthers Legend + NFL Analyst Steve Smith Sr. & the Steve Smith Foundation to Host Rally for Mental Health Pickleball Tournament on May 1
CHARLOTTE—Former Panther and NFL Analyst Steve Smith Sr. and his Steve Smith Foundation will be hosting his second annual Rally for Mental Health Pickleball Tournament and Celebrity Paddle Battle event on Friday, May 1st, from 2 to 8:30 pm at Pickleball Charlotte.
The Rally for Mental Health Tournament from 2-5 pm includes registered participants of all experience levels—beginner, intermediate, and advanced—and will also feature some of Charlotte’s top pickleball enthusiasts competing for the trophy. There are only a few spots left to register for the tournament. Registered participants will receive a gift and two tickets to the Celebrity Paddle Battle, with catered food and beverages.
The Celebrity Paddle Battle, from 5:30-8:30 pm, will be an exclusive, ticketed match featuring Steve and 3 of his celebrity friends, including Tennessee Titans Jeffery Simmons, Actor Da’Vinchi from the TV Series All American, and Charlotte’s very own professional touring pickleball player Eric Roddy. Those looking to purchase tickets to the Celebrity Paddle Battle, explore sponsorship opportunities, and/or donate to the Steve Smith Foundation can visit https://www.stevesmithfamilyfdn.org/.
All proceeds from the event will benefit Steve’s mental health initiatives, including the Smith Family Behavioral Health Urgent Care (BHUC), which was developed in partnership with Daymark Recovery, Alliance Health, and Mecklenburg County, and the first facility in the Charlotte area to provide critical 24/7 behavioral health crisis support. The BHUC focuses on:
24/7 Crisis Care & Triage: Immediate support for individuals experiencing a mental health and substance emergency.
Access for Everyone: Care provided regardless of insurance or financial status.
Diversion from Emergency Rooms: Reducing strain on local hospitals by offering specialized, immediate behavioral health support.
Comprehensive Referrals: Connecting clients with ongoing community-based care.
Basic Needs Assistance: Access to freshly laundered clothing, hygiene kits, and other essential supplies.
About the Steve Smith Foundation
Founded in 2013 by former Carolina Panther and NFL legend Steve Smith Sr., the Steve Smith Foundation (SSF) is dedicated to strengthening families and communities in Charlotte and beyond. SSF focuses on removing barriers to mental health care, wellness, and family support services, while also providing educational resources and opportunities for underserved populations.