Community Spotlight: Confikids—Confidence, Play, and Big Dreams
Some events just stick with you—and this one did.
This past weekend, we traveled to ElevenO at Patriot Place in Foxborough, Massachusetts, on a day that felt straight out of a storybook. It was just a few hours before the New England Patriots took the field in Denver and advanced to the Super Bowl, and only a short time before 20 inches of snow began to fall. Not that anything could cool the energy around the Retro Pickleball Tournament, benefitting Confikids.
It was especially great to see Rachel Calabrese, founder of Confikids (pronounced like confidence), in person again. Rachel’s passion for helping kids gain access to sports and enrichment opportunities is real, intentional, and contagious. Her vision is simple but profound: every child deserves the chance to play, grow, and feel like they belong.
Empower Pickleball founder Kim Bastien with Rachel Calabrese.
Empower Pickleball was there as a growth partner—supporting the event by connecting with brands to bring raffle items, pickleball products, and more. We also leaned into our favorite things: making fun content, engaging with players, and helping amplify joy and community around the sport.
“Confikids, Inc., is a nonprofit organization providing opportunities for children of limited financial means to participate in enrichment activities so that they may pursue their interests and passions, develop new skills, establish new relationships, and ultimately build confidence.” Through their scholarships, Confikids advocates for every child to have access to activity-based programs. They host fundraising events throughout the year, and this pickleball tournament was one for the books—full of excitement, first-time experiences, and shared smiles. It was a great way to kick off this year’s campaign efforts.
Looking ahead, Confikids is gearing up for its Inspiration! Gala, the nonprofit’s marquee fundraising event. The Gala promises a meaningful evening of dinner, live music, a silent auction, and powerful stories of perseverance and passion—all in support of expanding opportunities for kids in sports and beyond.
We’re excited to share that the Gala will feature an inspiring lineup of voices and personalities who embody inspiration and achievement:
Olympian Frederick “Flips” Richard: A 2024 Olympic bronze medalist in gymnastics whose rise to the podium helped bring Team USA back to the Olympic men’s gymnastics medal stand for the first time in years. Known on social media as “Fredrick Flips,” he’s become a symbol of grit, skill, and joy in movement.
Kristine Lilly: One of the most decorated athletes in women’s soccer history, Kristine is a two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion, Olympic gold medalist, and the most-capped player in U.S. Soccer history with 354 international appearances. Her career is a testament to longevity, leadership, and breaking barriers in sport.
Rob Surette: A world-renowned speed painter and motivational artist who brings stories to life through live art performances, inspiring audiences through creativity, purpose, and passion.
Players sporting 80s attire at the Confikids pickleball event.
Seeing the lineup of presenters and guests—from elite athletes to artists—underscores the inspiration behind Confikids’ mission: it’s not just about sports, it’s about confidence, community, and the belief that every kid has something incredible to offer.
We can’t wait to watch how Confikids grows across the state—and possibly far beyond. If this pickleball day was any indication, the impact will be big, joyful, and lasting.
