Matthew Dellavedova of the Cavaliers and Browns tackle Joe Thomas will be among the competitorsDec. 7 when Battle for the Paddle, a celebrity ping pong tournament benefitting Boys & Girls Clubs of Cleveland, takes place at Danny Vegh’s, 6505 Mayfield Road, Mayfield Heights.
Cost is $150 per person and includes food, drinks, music and the chance to mingle with the players. To reserve your spot, contact Boys & Girls Clubs of Cleveland at (216) 883-2106 or *protected email* or visit www.clevekids.org.
The event was originally set for Sept. 29, but was pushed back because an earlier-than-expected start to the Cavs practice schedule would have prevented the team’s players from participating. The rescheduling will allow Cavs and Browns players, including Thomas and Dellavedova, to attend.
“I first agreed to participate in the Battle for the Paddle last year because I simply wanted to help support our local kids and the Boys & Girls Clubs of Cleveland,” Thomas said. “The unexpected added fun was playing against some big names from the Cavs! I’m looking forward to my rematch this year!”
At last year’s Battle, Thomas was joined by teammate Gary Barnidge, while Dellavedova participated with fellow Cavs Anderson Varejao and Kyrie Irving.
“Danny Vegh’s is happy to present this annual event to help the deserving children of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Cleveland,” said Kathy Vegh Hughes, president and CEO of Danny Vegh’s Home Entertainment. “My father’s (Danny’s) story is similar to these kids, and it is important they know that dreams do come true with the support of community.”
Boys & Girls Clubs of Cleveland provide a safe, fun place for youths ages 6-18 after school and on Saturdays, and the organization serves approximately 8,000 kids each year. In a national Harris survey, more than 50 percent of alumni said the Boys & Girls Clubs experience saved their lives.
Benefit sponsors are Danny Vegh’s, Dworken & Bernstein Co., LPA, ESPN Cleveland, Panera Bread, Cedar Creek and Heinen’s Fine Foods.
