Buckhead Chabad Hosts Annual Pickleball Tournament

The summer heat was no match for the competitive spirit and communal energy on display June 28, as Chabad Buckhead and Brookhaven held its third annual pickleball tournament.

Departing from tradition, the event moved from its usual base at the Bitsy Grant Tennis Center off Northside Drive to the private Sandy Springs residence of Jeff and Carrla Goldstein, whose generosity in opening their court set the tone for easy parking and accessibility.

Sponsor Rabbi Yisrael New, who also played in the tournament, expressed delight at the response, noting that demand was high enough to require capping participation at 16 teams.

Rabbi New stated, “Thank G-d there is so much exciting momentum at Buckhead Chabad, and we’re grateful to everyone who continues to be part of our growing community. This pickleball tournament has quickly become one of Buckhead Chabad’s signature community events by bringing together people of all ages for a day of friendly competition, connection, and community.”

The turnout reflected the growing enthusiasm for pickleball as a sport that has found a natural home in Jewish community life for its accessibility, social nature, and enough competitive edge to keep things interesting.

Behind the scenes, the logistical engine/wizard powering the event was Daniel Cohen, who used computer algorithms and bracket technology to determine matchups, sequencing, and timing across both courts. Cohen’s coordination kept 16 teams moving. After the final volleys, two teams emerged victorious: The Slay Lazs and Dill with It, a name that would make any pickleball purist smile.

Paddles raised high for this year’s champions — this writer and Jeremy Lazarus (team ace) took home the Group A title, while in Group B, brother-and-sister team, Elie and Sarah Shapiro, claimed first place, keeping it in the family.

Cohen explained, “Both teams captured their respective division championships and earned well-deserved bragging rights … until the next tournament rolls around.”

He divided the teams across two separate tournaments, both run under a double-elimination format, a deliberate choice that kept the spirit of competition alive. Under this structure, no team was knocked out after a single loss. Every pair could afford one stumble and still claw their way back into contention, ensuring that early nerves or a rough first match didn’t define anyone’s day.

Participants were asked to self-identify as Beginner, Intermediate, or Advanced upon registration. The Intermediate bracket drew the largest field, though the skill levels blended across the courts. Entry fee was $45 per duo, $25 per single.

Among the players was Marcy Kushner, a returning second-year competitor with a sense of humor about her prospects, who said, “Although I’m not Jared’s [Kushner] cousin — ha! — I did play in last year’s tournament.  I didn’t win, but I’m an optimist because I have a great partner, tennis whiz Nancy Blank.”

First-time entrant Ori Ben-Ari brought fresh energy to the courts, competing alongside teammates from Emory Law School in what he described as an “exciting event debut.”

Amit Feldberg, co-chair of the Chabad’s Sisterhood and co-organizer of the tournament, wore multiple hats competing as an Intermediate while running the snack and smoothie bar that kept players hydrated and fueled throughout the oppressive heat. Feldberg partnered with Judy Stolovitz, also co- chair of the event and Sisterhood of Buckhead Chabad.

Cohen concluded, “Overall, the tournament ran smoothly and everyone had a fun time. All ages and skill levels came together to pump up some friendly competition.”

Looking ahead, Rabbi New said, “Mark your calendars for our Pre-Holiday Wine Tasting Aug. 23. Come experience what the excitement at Buckhead Chabad is all about. Reach out to me directly to sign up for Nov. 1 tournament before it closes out. If this year’s tournament is any indication, the waiting list is likely to fill fast.”

Pickleball overtook tennis in U.S. participants for the first time in 2025 with 24.3 million players. Participation has climbed 171.8 percent over the past three years. Atlanta has more than 40 pickleball locations and sits in the strongest growth region nationally.