Join the BSA Foundation for our First Annual Pickleball Tournament—an exciting afternoon of food, fitness, and friendly competition. Whether you’re here for the game, the networking, or the coveted BSA bragging rights, this high-energy event promises high impact, all in support of expanding architecture and design opportunities for Boston students.
Thursday, September 24, 2026Location: PKL Boston64 C Street, South Boston, MA 02127
The BSA Foundation’s K–12 Design Education Program addresses gaps in access to design learning by empowering students ages 5–18 to explore architecture, design, and the built environment. Through hands-on, age-appropriate experiences, the program fosters critical thinking, creativity, and career exploration. In 2024 alone, over 2,500 students participated in our free workshops, events and learning opportunities including:
A two-part lesson, classroom project, and public exhibition in Boston and Cambridge Public Schools, introducing young students to design thinking, building types, and neighborhood planning. 2024 impact: served 1,200+ students in 70+ classrooms across 34 Boston and Cambridge public schools.
A weekend of design and collaboration, where local families design and build a city together alongside volunteer design professionals. 2024 impact: engaged 850+ students and caregivers through a weekend event and new classroom field trips.
Early career exploration workshops and summer immersion program at local architecture firms, in partnership with the Boston Private Industry Council and the Mayor’s Summer Jobs Program. 2024 impact: provided access through 130+ student spots in early career workshops and placed 15 high school students across 7 local firms for summer internships.
Many students, particularly those in low-income schools, lack access to design education. This limits their opportunities to pursue careers in STEM and creative fields. Today, architecture remains one of the least diverse professions in the United States, with only 2% of licensed architects identifying as Black and less than 0.5% as Black women. These disparities reflect systemic barriers. By expanding early access to design learning, we can open pathways for underrepresented youth and help build a more inclusive and community-centered profession.
DinkA soft, controlled shot that just clears the net, landing in the kitchen (non-volley zone). More than cute, it’s strategic!
KitchenThe non-volley zone near the net, where players can’t smash the ball in the air.
Get Out of the Kitchen!A common shout when someone forgets and volleys while standing in the no-go zone.
VolleyHitting the ball in the air before it bounces. Fun fact: you can’t volley while standing in the kitchen.
PickledWhen a team loses 11–0. Ouch. Let’s just say… better luck next game!
FalafelA shot that falls flat due to lack of power, basically a pickleball flop.
Paddle TapThe friendly end-of-game gesture, like a handshake, but with paddles. Good game, good vibes.
Learn how to become a sponsor of the tournament.
Your participation, sponsorship, and donations directly support the BSA Foundation’s K-12 Design Education Program. Proceeds from this event help us continue to offer free programming, help us reach more students, deepen our partnerships with schools, and scale our impact in communities across Boston, particularly those historically underexposed to design education.
The BSA Foundation is a 501(c)⑶ charitable organization; donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Thank you to all of our donors! If you would like to support, please visit our donation page.
Thank you to our event partners and sponsors. Please check out our sponsorship packages and join them today!
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