Maye and Howell Team Up for Charity Pickleball Event

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — NFL quarterbacks Drake Maye and Sam Howell will showcase their skills outside the gridiron this Wednesday, March 5, during a charity pickleball event titled “Beat an NFL Quarterback” at the Tipsy Pickle in Charlotte. Fans will have the unique opportunity to challenge the former Tar Heels teammates in a doubles format, all while supporting local charities.

The event aims to raise funds for three local organizations: The Katie Blessing Foundation, which focuses on pediatric behavioral health care; The Agnes Weisiger Breast Health Center at Novant; and the Go Jen Go Foundation, which assists individuals and families battling breast cancer. Attendees can also bid on auction items, including signed jerseys from NFL legends Peyton Manning, Eli Manning, and basketball star Caitlin Clark.

Drake Maye, born and raised in Huntersville, attended Myers Park High School before becoming a star quarterback for the University of North Carolina. Selected third overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, he recently completed his rookie season with the New England Patriots. Maye expressed his excitement for the event, noting, “It’s awesome. It’s always fun to do something together for a good cause.”

Sam Howell, who preceded Maye at UNC, finished his college career setting program records for passing yards and touchdowns thrown. Drafted in the fifth round of the 2022 NFL Draft, Howell has played for both the Washington Commanders and Seattle Seahawks. “That’s what we’re doing tonight. We’re both back home in Charlotte for a couple weeks so it’ll be fun to spend time together tonight,” Howell said.

The event will feature additional competitions, including a Longest Drive and Closest to the Pin challenge, where professional golfer Johnson Wagner will take on challengers. The festivities will kick off at 6:00 p.m., offering fans a chance to mingle with the athletes, participate in various activities, and support charitable causes.

Both Maye and Howell are deeply connected to their North Carolina roots. “Charlotte’s such a big part of my life where I grew up,” Maye noted, appreciative of the local support throughout his career. Howell echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of giving back to their community.

For fans eager to witness NFL talent in a different arena, the “Beat an NFL Quarterback” event promises an entertaining evening while contributing to vital local initiatives.