MEMPHIS, Tenn., June 16, 2026 – The Kosten Foundation, a Memphis-based nonprofit dedicated to funding pancreatic cancer research and supporting patients and families affected by the disease, announced today that it raised more than $50,000 through its third annual Kick It Pickleball Tournament. Held May 15-17 at Suggs Park in Collierville, Tennessee, and presented by Baptist Memorial Health Care, the tournament brought together approximately 250 players, sponsors, volunteers, and supporters for a weekend of competition and fundraising.

“We are incredibly grateful for the support of everyone who participated, sponsored, volunteered, and helped make this event possible,” said Alan Kosten, Chairman of the Kosten Foundation. “Every dollar raised helps advance pancreatic cancer research and supports our mission to bring hope to patients and families facing this disease. The enthusiasm and generosity shown by our community continues to inspire us.”

Funds raised through the tournament will support the Kosten Foundation’s ongoing investment in pancreatic cancer research and its patient support initiatives, including a monthly support group for patients, survivors, caregivers, and loved ones.

The Kick It Pickleball Tournament is part of the foundation’s broader Kick It fundraising efforts, which have helped generate significant support for pancreatic cancer research over the years. The tradition continues this fall with the 16th annual Kick It 5K.

Since its founding in 2003, the Kosten Foundation has contributed more than $3.5 million to pancreatic cancer research. Proceeds from the tournament will help continue that work and support the foundation’s commitment to improving outcomes for pancreatic cancer patients and their families.

The Kosten Foundation extends its sincere appreciation to the sponsors whose generosity helped make the 2026 Kick It Pickleball Tournament possible.

Presenting Sponsor
Baptist Memorial Health Care

Platinum Sponsor
First Horizon

Court Sponsors
Regional One Health, Poplar Market Plaza, Julie Kosten, Highland Capital, All About Bikes, and Lurie & Associates

Gold Sponsor
Lexus

Silver Sponsors
Barbara & Allie Prescott, Tommy Craig, and Mattress Firm

Cup Sponsor
Harkavy, McDaniel, Kaplan & Saloman

Bronze Sponsor
Financial Federal

Food Sponsors
SuperLo Foods, Marco’s Pizza, and Lenny’s Grill & Subs

Friend Sponsors
Scott Giles, U.S. Bank, Story Financial, Dr. Stephen and Robin Beahrman, Bank3, First Citizens National Bank, and Hometown Nutrition

PHOTOS:

Pickleball Action

Mixed Doubles Trophy Stand

Mixed Doubles Team

Event Overview

Spectators watch the exciting Pickleball action

Pancreatic Cancer Survivor Celebrates Her Fight

Kosten Foundation Kick It Pickleball Volunteers

Participants enjoy a break

Participants enjoy lunch

Collierville Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting for the Event

Collierville Mayor Maureen Fraser and Alan Kosten share the Collierville City Proclamation announcing May 15, 2026 as Kosten Foundation Kick It Pickleball Day in Collierville.

The Kosten Foundation can be found online at:

http://www.kostenfoundation.com

http://www.facebook.com/kosten-foundation

About Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is one of the most difficult cancers to detect early because symptoms are often vague and may not appear until the disease has advanced. Common symptoms may include unintended weight loss, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal or back pain, fatigue, and jaundice.

According to the American Cancer Society’s 2026 estimates:

• About 67,530 people (35,190 men and 32,340 women) will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the United States.
• About 52,740 people (27,230 men and 25,510 women) will die from pancreatic cancer.
• Pancreatic cancer accounts for approximately 3% of all cancers diagnosed in the United States but is the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths.
• The average lifetime risk of developing pancreatic cancer is about 1 in 56 for men and about 1 in 60 for women.

About the Kosten Foundation:

The Kosten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research was founded in 2003 by the family of Herb Kosten following his battle with pancreatic cancer. The family established the foundation to increase awareness, provide support, and advance research for one of the deadliest forms of cancer. Since its founding, the organization has contributed more than $3.5 million to pancreatic cancer research and hosts a monthly support group for patients, caregivers, families, and anyone interested in learning more about the disease.

The foundation’s signature fundraising events include the annual Kick It 5K and Kick It Pickleball Tournament. Funds raised through these events and other foundation initiatives help support pancreatic cancer research and patient support programs.

For more information about the Kosten Foundation, its programs, and upcoming events, visit kostenfoundation.com.

###