Serving Up Community and Competition: The Inaugural Tigertown Throwdown

Pickleball is officially sweeping the nation, and this past August, Clemson proved why it’s the heart of the Upstate's sporting spirit. The Clemson Area Chamber of Commerce hosted the first-ever Tigertown Throwdown Pickleball Tournament, and to say it was a "smash" would be an understatement.

From August 1–3, 2025, the Duckworth Family Tennis Facility was transformed into a pickleball mecca, bringing together players of all ages for a weekend of high-intensity competition and community connection.

While the gold medals were a highlight for the athletes, the real winner of the weekend was the Clemson Tennis Foundation.

The tournament was more than just a series of matches; it was a mission-driven event. All proceeds went directly to the Foundation, which works tirelessly to enhance lives through tennis and pickleball programs, scholarships, and grants. By picking up a paddle, participants helped ensure that these sports remain accessible to the next generation of players in South Carolina.

The courts saw non-stop action with a format designed to maximize play for everyone involved.

Whether it was the seasoned pros in the 4.5+ bracket battling for the top spot or the 16U youth showing off their lightning-fast reflexes, the level of play was incredible across the board.

What made the Tigertown Throwdown truly special wasn't just the scorelines—it was the atmosphere. Between games, players and spectators enjoyed the energy of a community coming together for a common cause. The Chamber's goal was to create an event that felt like a celebration of Clemson's vibrant outdoor culture, and they delivered.

From the official tournament t-shirts to the medals handed out at the podium, every detail was a testament to the hard work of the Chamber and its volunteers.