Hitting the Courts for Cancer Research

^{Tournament champions celebrate alongside hospital and Maroone Cancer Center leadership.}

The energy at The Fort in Fort Lauderdale was electric on March 28, as the 2026 VeloSano season kicked off with the inaugural VeloSano Florida for the Cure event. The day was defined by fast-paced rallies, community spirit and one singular, powerful goal: ending cancer.

As one of South Florida’s premier social sports destinations, featuring 43 professional regulation courts and the world’s first dedicated pickleball stadium, The Fort provided the perfect backdrop for supporters and Cleveland Clinic caregivers to unite. From first-time players picking up a paddle to seasoned competitors, the tournament was an inspiring display of teamwork and passion on the courts.

After a series of thrilling matches, the tournament concluded with a medal ceremony celebrating the winners from the intermediate and advanced divisions. The moment served as a powerful testament to the impact a united community can have in the fight against cancer.

One of the tournament’s top champions reflected on what made this victory so meaningful.

“This cause is incredibly personal to me,” says Dr. Sandy Lieberman. “As a physician, I know the weight of a cancer diagnosis, and as someone who has lost family to the disease, I’ll show up anytime to play in support of cancer research.”

Fueling the Future of Research

The day concluded with an inspiring Mission Moment led by Zeina Nahleh, MD, FACP, Vice Chief, Cancer Institute at Cleveland Clinic in Florida and Director of the Maroone Cancer Center, who highlighted how the VeloSano movement is directly accelerating lifesaving progress.

“Cancer is a devastating disease that impacts every family,” says Dr. Nahleh. “Advancing research is essential to reducing its burden, and it is only through the coordinated efforts of scientists, clinicians, community leaders and advocates that meaningful progress becomes possible.”

The impact in Florida is already significant. Since 2018, Cleveland Clinic teams across the state have completed 109 clinical trials, enrolled nearly 1,600 patients, trained 15 research fellows and published 164 scientific manuscripts. Florida researchers earned their first VeloSano research grant in 2024, followed by a second grant in 2025.

Thanks to VeloSano’s promise that 100% of every dollar raised goes directly to cancer research, participants know their impact is immediate and meaningful. Joining the VeloSano movement means that together, we can accelerate progress and change the future for millions of cancer patients around the world.

---