The Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL) and Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR) have officially signed a partnership, marking a significant step forward in the standardization and growth of the sport. As part of this collaboration, DUPR will become the official rating system of CNPL, reinforcing a commitment to competitive integrity and global expansion.

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DUPR, with over a million users and a presence in more than 150 countries, is widely recognized as the most accurate and globally accepted rating system in pickleball. By integrating DUPR into CNPL’s competitive structure, the league is ensuring that players are rated on a fair and consistent scale, fostering a higher level of competition and transparency within the sport.

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Pickleball is experiencing explosive growth worldwide, and this partnership aligns with both CNPL’s and DUPR’s shared vision of elevating the game to new heights. Standardized ratings help bridge gaps between different regions, making it easier for players from various skill levels and locations to compete on a level playing field. This move will also help facilitate international competition, bringing together the best players from around the world under a unified system.

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For CNPL, adopting DUPR as the official rating system enhances player development and provides fans with a more insightful way to track performance and progress throughout the season. With DUPR’s data-driven approach, CNPL players will benefit from a system that continuously refines itself based on match outcomes, ensuring the most accurate assessment of skill levels.

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This collaboration underscores the shared mission of CNPL and DUPR: to grow the game of pickleball in a structured, competitive, and global-minded way. As more organizations and leagues embrace a unified rating system, the sport’s legitimacy and reach will continue to expand, paving the way for a more connected and competitive pickleball community worldwide.

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With CNPL and DUPR working together, the future of pickleball has never looked brighter. This partnership is not just about rankings—it’s about the growth, evolution, and unification of a sport that is capturing hearts across the globe.

DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) is proud to partner with TTC Clubs to establish Southern California’s first official DUPR Assessment Center. 

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This partnership will provide players of all levels with a structured, technology-driven approach to skill assessment and rating, powered by My DUPR Coach and supported by DUPR-certified coaches on-site.

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TTC’s world-class facilities in Newport Beach and Southern Orange County will now serve as a hub for DUPR Coach-Assigned Ratings, giving players the opportunity to receive precise ratings, expert guidance, and level-appropriate competition.

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A Shared Commitment to Elevating Pickleball

Through this partnership, TTC will offer a range of DUPR-powered player development programs, including:

• Coach-Assigned DUPR Ratings – Players receive skill evaluations and structured match play, ensuring an accurate rating within the DUPR system.
• DUPR Coach Technology – TTC coaches will utilize DUPR Coach tools to assess players, track progress, and facilitate smarter, data-driven player development.
• WTP Combine Testing (Optional Add-On) – A specialized assessment program offering deeper insights into player performance and potential recruitment opportunities.

“This partnership is a major step forward in making accurate pickleball ratings more accessible and actionable for players,” said Tito Machado, CEO of DUPR. “TTC is a premier venue with a strong coaching team, and through DUPR Coach, we’re bringing a new level of structure and technology to skill development.”

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“We’ve followed DUPR since day one and watched them grow into the gold standard for pickleball ratings,” said Sean Bollettieri, TTC’s Founder. “Their database is the biggest and accuracy is unmatched. This partnership is something we’re incredibly excited about—it will help introduce even more new players to the game and support the broader pickleball community, including PPA, APP, MLP, and beyond.”

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A Hub for Competitive & Recreational Play

TTC’s nearly 100 regulation courts, including a stadium court showcased by PPA, MLP, APP, and APS events, will now offer structured DUPR rating sessions, open play, and coaching to support players at all levels.

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“This is about creating opportunities for everyone in the sport,” said Katie Nimitz, President of MyJourney Pickleball. “Whether you're new to the game or competing at the highest level, DUPR and My DUPR Coach provide the tools to help you track progress, improve, and find the right competition.”

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Join the Launch Event – April 2025

To kick off this new initiative, TTC will host a DUPR launch event, featuring:
🎾 DUPR Rating Sessions
🎾 DUPR Coach Assessments
🎾 DUPR Open Play
🎾 WTP Combine Training Camp (Optional Add-On)

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Pickleball players in Southern California are invited to participate and experience DUPR’s rating system firsthand.

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Stay tuned for more information on how to sign up! 

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About DUPR

DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) is the premier global pickleball rating system and technology platform, trusted by the world's leading clubs, tournaments, leagues, and players. DUPR's dynamic rating system unifies pickleball across age, gender, and location by analyzing match results to accurately evaluate all players across a 2.000 - 8.000 scale. DUPR is the official pickleball rating of leagues, tournaments and clubs around the world, including United Pickleball Association (UPA), PPA, Major League Pickleball (MLP), Pickleball.com, Life Time, The Picklr, National Team Pickleball League, National Pickleball League. It also owns and operates Minor League Pickleball and Collegiate Pickleball, two of the biggest amateur leagues in the sport. Players and operators can visit www.dupr.com to sign up and learn more.

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About TTC Clubs

TTC Clubs operates premier pickleball venues, including TTC Newport Beach, TTC The Newporter, and TTC Coto de Caza. With nearly 100 regulation courts and a commitment to providing world-class facilities and coaching, TTC is a leader in pickleball training, competition, and community engagement.

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About DUPR Coach

DUPR Coach is a program designed to empower pickleball coaches to launch Coach-Assigned DUPR ratings for the 34 million non-rated players worldwide. Powered by MyJourney Pickleball, DUPR Coach helps coaches provide valuable insights into players’ skill levels and supports the growth of pickleball through more competitive, enjoyable play. Coaches interested in becoming DUPR Coaches can visit duprcoach.com/coach-cert to sign up and learn more.

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Newport Beach, CA | March 10, 2025

Addressing the rumors surrounding the PWR League, we would like to provide clarity on our role and involvement.

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DUPR was a brand partner of the PWR League — in the same way we are partnered with thousands of other tours and events that utilize the DUPR platform. While our name was associated with the league, our involvement was solely limited to providing our rating system as a resource. DUPR had no operational role, ownership stake, or decision-making authority in PWR. 

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Our commitment remains to supporting the sport by providing technology and partnerships that benefit tours, players, and events across the pickleball ecosystem.

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The journey from college sports to the professional stage is often long and arduous. But for Mehvish Safdar and Ava Ignatowich, the path was accelerated thanks to the opportunities presented by the DUPR Collegiate Tour. 

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Both rising stars have now made history by getting drafted into Major League Pickleball (MLP) via free agency, marking a pivotal moment not just for them but for the entire collegiate pickleball ecosystem.

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The Impact of the DUPR Collegiate Tour

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At its core, the DUPR Collegiate Tour is designed to bridge the gap between amateur and professional pickleball. By offering:

• High-level pickleball competition for college players
• A transparent and trusted pickleball rating system
• National exposure for college pickleball players

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DUPR is revolutionizing pickleball rankings and the way young talent gets discovered.

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By competing in DUPR-sanctioned collegiate pickleball events, Mehvish and Ava gained valuable experience against the best college players in the nation. Their consistent performance in college pickleball tournaments led to boost their pickleball ratings and be directly selected in the MLP Free Agency Draft by professional scouts. 

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Mehvish Safdar: A Steady Climb to the Top

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Mehvish Safdar made waves in collegiate pickleball with her disciplined playstyle and strategic shot-making. Her journey through the DUPR Collegiate Tour saw her take on some of the best players in the nation, solidifying her reputation as a force to be reckoned with. As her DUPR rating climbed, so did her visibility among professional teams, culminating in her well-deserved selection in the MLP draft.

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In our interview with her, Mehvish said:

“Everyone's really friendly at these college tournaments, and DUPR does a great job of creating a very organized environment and also an environment that's just fun and friendly. DUPR also takes very good care of the athletes too.”

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Her journey proves that:

• The DUPR Pickleball Rating System is a true measure of skill.
• College pickleball tournaments are now a direct pathway to professional pickleball leagues like MLP.
• DUPR is shaping the next generation of MLP players

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Her success underscores the importance of DUPR’s rating system, which ensures that talent does not go unnoticed. By competing in DUPR-sanctioned events, Mehvish demonstrated consistency and resilience, qualities that MLP teams look for in professional players.

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Ava Ignatowich: Rising Through the Ranks

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Ava Ignatowich, a name that has become synonymous with aggressive yet controlled play, also took full advantage of the opportunities provided by the DUPR Collegiate Tour. With a background in high-level college competition, Ava quickly adapted to the fast-paced nature of the tour, using it as a launchpad for her professional aspirations.

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Her progression showcased her ability to perform under pressure, making her an ideal candidate for MLP teams.  By competing in DUPR-rated pickleball tournaments, she gained national recognition, which played a critical role in her transition to the professional circuit, reinforcing the effectiveness of the collegiate tour as a talent incubator. 

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DUPR’s Role in Shaping the Future of Pickleball

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The success stories of Mehvish and Ava highlight the growing influence of the DUPR Collegiate Tour in shaping the next generation of professional pickleball players. As more college athletes engage with DUPR’s competitive framework, the transition from student-athlete to professional player will continue to become more seamless.

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DUPR’s transparent rating system, nationwide competitions, and commitment to elevating collegiate players have proven to be invaluable assets for aspiring pros. As the sport of pickleball grows, the DUPR Collegiate Tour is set to remain a crucial stepping stone for young athletes aiming to make their mark at the highest level.

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With Mehvish Safdar and Ava Ignatowich now stepping into the professional pickleball arena, their journey serves as an inspiration for all pickleball collegiate players who dream of reaching the pinnacle of the sport. 

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Thanks to DUPR, that dream is now more achievable than ever.

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Find out what it takes to become a DUPR Collegiate Ambassador here.

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Pickleball is a rapidly growing sport worldwide, but in Madagascar, it’s still an unknown game. However, thanks to the dedication of Hosea Randrianarivony, that is beginning to change.

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Hosea, a pastor originally from Madagascar, has taken it upon himself to introduce the sport to his home country. His journey is not just about sports—it’s about community, leadership, and providing opportunities for a nation eager to embrace something new.

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A Journey Rooted in Faith and Service

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Hosea’s journey to bringing pickleball to Madagascar began long before he even picked up a paddle. “I’m originally from Madagascar. So, that’s where I am from. I was born and raised there. About nine years ago is when I came to America mostly to get married because I’m a pastor,” he shared. His service extended beyond the church, as he and his wife worked with Mercy Ships, a hospital organization that provides free surgeries to underserved communities.

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Hosea’s work in Madagascar continued even after moving to the United States. He maintained his connection to his homeland by organizing annual pastor conferences. “For the past five years, we’ve been going to Madagascar every single year to do pastors’ conferences and teach pastors to be better leaders,” he said.

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Discovering Pickleball and Taking It Home

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It wasn’t until March 2023 that Hosea first discovered pickleball, but he quickly saw its potential for Madagascar. “Last year was the first time that I thought, why don’t I bring pickleball to Madagascar?” he recalled. So, he did just that. With the support of his church and community, he gathered nets, paddles, and balls to take back home. “Mostly, I’ve been given nets and paddles and balls to bring to Madagascar,” he explained. “right now in my studio, I possibly have up to 30 paddles.”

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His goal is to not only introduce the sport but also organize structured leagues and tournaments. “This year, I’m trying to bring medals and do a small league and a small tournament. I’m looking for 36 people for this year because I don’t have a lot of time in Madagascar. I’ll have six weeks, but during those six weeks, that’s what I’m aiming for,” he said.

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The Challenge and the Opportunity

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One of the biggest obstacles to growing pickleball in Madagascar is the lack of resources. “I’m not sure if Madagascar is the poorest country in the world right now, but it is at least in the top five poorest countries in the world,” Hosea pointed out. “So I just tell them that Madagascar has been behind in most things, and there is this one opportunity in sports.”

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For Hosea, pickleball isn’t just a game—it’s an avenue for growth and development. “The people are so talented and smart, so I was like, there’s this opportunity that could help us to be equal or possibly be better at something with the world.”

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Another challenge is the infrastructure. Madagascar lacks dedicated pickleball courts, so Hosea has had to get creative. “Even at my church, we’ve been using painter’s tape for the lines. We went on a tennis court, which we do here in Arlington, and then we put the tapes on. That’s what I will be doing for now.” But he remains optimistic, believing that as interest grows, solutions will arise. “Madagascan people are very creative. They will be able to make something to be used as a net in Madagascar.”

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Building a Pickleball Community in Madagascar

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Hosea’s work in Madagascar extends beyond just sports. He is heavily involved in mentoring young people, particularly college students, through a group he helped create called It’s Time for Madagascar. “One of the things It’s Time for Madagascar does is just take the initiative to do something,” he explained. The group has engaged in community service projects such as teaching languages, cleaning beaches, and even visiting prisons. Now, it’s also pioneering the introduction of pickleball to the island.

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For Hosea, the key to pickleball’s success in Madagascar will be education and accessibility. “We may think getting a phone like this is easy”, he says pointing at his phone, “but it costs a fortune in Madagascar. Most people pay the exact same price as Americans pay, but it’s a year of salary for most people in Madagascar.” This makes organizing a structured league with digital tracking a challenge. His plan? Have organizers manually keep track of scores and ratings to ensure fair competition with DUPR.

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Looking to the Future

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Despite the challenges, Hosea remains hopeful and committed to growing the sport in Madagascar. “I started learning pickleball and I went mostly from zero to a hundred. I was not really interested in pickleball—I just wanted to be able to help the people that really love playing,” he said. But what started as a way to serve others has turned into a passion of its own.

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As he prepares for his upcoming trip, Hosea envisions a bright future for pickleball in Madagascar. With ongoing support from his church, the pickleball community, and donors, Hosea believes Madagascar can become a stronghold for the sport. “I believe once people see it and get used to the game, it’s going to be awesome, and during these upcoming 6 weeks, I will be able to grow it.”

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Through faith, perseverance, and a deep love for his home country, Hosea Randrianarivony is not just introducing a sport to Madagascar—he’s creating a movement. A movement of inclusivity, opportunity, and hope, one paddle at a time.

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New year, new MLP! With fresh rule changes, expanded rosters, and new talent, the 2025 season promises excitement. We’ve just concluded the Premier and Challenger Free Agency Draft picks, so new faces will soon emerge in the pro pickleball space.

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Let’s get into those updates.

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Major Rule Changes

• UPA Players Eligibility: Noncontracted UPA players are NOT eligible for the 2025 draft. Around 12 players (4 men, 8 women) from 2024 will not return.
• Expanded Premier Team Rosters: Teams now have 6 players (3 men, 3 women) instead of 4, with 5th & 6th picks as subs who can also be picked up by another team into their starting lineup during the four waiver periods.
• Scoring Change: No more rally scoring! Matches will now use side-out scoring, one game to 11.
• Mandatory Player Drop: Each team must drop one player from their 2024 roster.

Alright, that’s enough rules. There are more rule changes to this season, but I’d say those are your biggest ones. 

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MLP Roster Updates

Now for the fun part: I hope you were able to check in either March 2nd or 3rd for the Premier and Challenger draft picks because it was an interesting one! Of course I did because yes, pickleball is life. With the expansion of the roster sizes, we will be seeing new names. 

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To the best of my knowledge, the Premier and Challenger drafts introduced 34 new players (27 Premier, 7 Challenger) who didn’t play in MLP 2024. Some are returning from injury, some have been dominant in PPA tournaments, and others are new to pickleball.

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There is a great deal of talent at the 5th and 6th spot who could easily be a steal into a starting role within a Premier team. I am curious how they truly feel being in the 5th and 6th spot of a Premier team, where they could’ve easily played on a Challenger team and received playing time at every event. 

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Sure, it’s nice to be considered on a team with your Ben Johns and Anna Brights, but wouldn’t you just rather play instead? 

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I know I would rather play, but I guess it’s a matter of preference — and you really don't have a choice to say no if a team were to pick you up.

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Key New Players in Starting Lineups

• Atlanta Bouncers: Victoria Di Muzio – A rising talent from Canada, but still needs time to prove herself.
• Chicago Slice: Max Freeman – PPA tour standout, strong addition.
• Miami Pickleball Club: Mya Bui – Former D1 tennis player with a competitive edge.
• NY Hustlers: Helena Spiridis, Dominique Schaefer, Zane Ford – Singles specialists working hard on doubles.
• SoCal Hard Eights: Ivan Jakovljevic – A well-trained competitor from Dallas.
• Utah Black Diamonds: Mehvish Safdar – Another D1 tennis standout and similar to Mya coming in. Both are potential dark horses here.

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Notable Challenger Teams to Watch

• Brooklyn Aces vs. Las Vegas Night Owls: Expect tight dreambreakers – slight edge to the Night Owls due to singles talent.
• Nashville Chefs: Strong pickups in the draft with Scarpa and Brown and a steal of an experienced player in Esquival to pair well with Radzikowska.
• Bay Area Breakers: Wyatt Stone subbed in for the Chicago Slice in the MLP Finals last year. He's underrated, but dangerous.

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Full Premier Team Rosters

(Sub/Bench Players in Italics; New 2025 Players in Bold)

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Challenger Teams

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‍Final Thoughts

With new faces, bigger rosters, and fresh rules, 2025 is set to be an unpredictable season. Will the new players shine or struggle under pressure? 

Time will tell. Stay tuned!‍

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March 2025 “Reporter on the Ground” - by Bobbi Oshiro

Collegiate pickleball players, Reign Storm is fully funding one team’s trip to the College National Championship (CNC)! If your team has secured a bid, this is your shot at having your CNC experience completely funded—thanks to Reign Storm.

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What’s Covered

The winning team (2 men + 2 women) will receive:

• Up to 4 nights of hotel stay
• Flights
• Meals
• Entry

And because Reign Storm fuels champions, every team that enters will receive a FREE case of Reign Storm! 

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How to Enter

Eligible teams (any team with a bid to CNC) can enter by filling out this form and submitting the following:

• A team photo 
• A short video testimonial
  
  • Tell us why your team is excited to compete at CNC and how you earned your spot.
• BONUS – When you get your Reign Storm case, create a fun, high-energy video with your team featuring the Reign Storm! 
  
  • (Examples: Choreographed dance with Reign Storm, Passing the Reign Storm to a player who always shows up late series, etc.)

Submissions close on Sunday, March 16.

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The best entries will be featured on DUPR’s Instagram, where the community will vote for their favorite team in the comments from March 18-23. The winner will be announced on Monday, March 24, exactly three weeks before CNC!

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Your Path to CNC

CNC is the biggest stage in collegiate pickleball, and Reign Storm is fueling your journey by funding one team to compete.

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Enter Now!

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Official Rules:

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. This Giveaway is in no way sponsored, endorsed, or administered by, or associated with Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, or any other social media platform. Open to teams that have secured a bid to the 2025 Collegiate National Championship (CNC). Each team must consist of currently enrolled collegiate pickleball players.

Participants must be 18 years or older or have parental/guardian consent. Giveaway is open to legal residents of the United States. Giveaway begins [Start Date] and ends Sunday, March 16, 2025, at 11:59 PM EST ("Entry Period"). Entries submitted after the Entry Period will not be eligible. Prize details include: One (1) winning team (consisting of 4 player (2 men + 2 women)) will receive a funded trip to CNC 2025, which includes: Round-trip airfare from school to the event (or equivalent travel reimbursement), Hotel accommodations at the for 4 days of CNC at the CNC preferred hotel, Tournament entry fees, and 3 meals a day Friday to Sunday (9 meals per player) of $15 a meal. 

Approximate retail value (ARV) of the prize: $16,600. Prize is non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash. Winner is responsible for any applicable taxes or additional expenses not specified.

The winner will be notified via email and/or social media direct message within five (5) days of the voting closing. If a winner does not respond within 48 hours, a new winner may be selected.

Winner must provide valid proof of identity upon request to claim the prize. By entering, participants grant Sponsor and its partners the right to use submitted content (photos/videos) for promotional purposes without additional compensation.

Winner agrees to participate in any promotional activities related to the Giveaway. Winner and team members may be required to sign a travel liability waiver before receiving the prize.

DUPR and Reign Storm are not responsible for cancellations, travel disruptions, injuries, or other unforeseen circumstances related to the trip.

DUPR reserves the right to disqualify any entry that does not comply with the rules or appears fraudulent. DUPR reserves the right to modify, suspend, or terminate the Giveaway in the event of unforeseen circumstances. By participating, entrants agree to release DUPR, its affiliates, and partners from any liability arising from participation or prize use. By entering, you agree to these Official Rules.By entering the Giveaway, participants acknowledge and agree to the collection, use, and processing of their personal information (such as name, email address, and any other required data) by DUPR and Reign Storm for the purposes of administering the Giveaway, notifying the winner, and providing the prize.

Participants' personal data will not be shared with third parties except as necessary to fulfill the prize (e.g., for travel arrangements or other prize-related services).By entering, participants agree to the collection and use of their personal data as outlined in the privacy policy and these Official Rules.

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Exciting news for Canada’s aspiring pro pickleball players! The Dink Minor League Pickleball (MiLP) Canada is now the official pathway to the Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL).

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Starting with the 2026 CNPL Draft, a player’s MiLP Canada participation will be a key factor in draft consideration, giving amateur players a clear route to the pro ranks. This partnership strengthens the connection between amateur and professional pickleball, ensuring that top talent has the opportunity to rise through the ranks. 

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MiLP Canada Integration at CNPL III Showdowns

The upcoming CNPL III Showdowns in March will feature MiLP Canada integration, adding even more excitement for participants: 

• Earn MiLP Canada Points – Players will accumulate points that contribute to their overall MiLP Canada ranking. 
• DUPR Rating Impact – Matches will count toward players’ DUPR ratings, allowing for accurate skill assessment. 
• Exclusive MiLP Swag & Medals – Competitors in each division will have the chance to take home MiLP-branded medals and gear. 

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This integration ensures that every match played at CNPL III Showdowns carries real implications for players looking to advance in their competitive pickleball journey. 

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More MiLP Canada Pathways

Beyond the CNPL Draft, competing in MiLP Canada opens doors to even more major pickleball opportunities, including: 

• Qualifying for Team Canada at the Pickleball World Cup, representing the nation on the global stage. 
• Competing in the MiLP US Finals, where players can battle for a USD $100,000 prize pool. 

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These pathways give players multiple ways to level up their game, gain recognition, and compete against top talent worldwide. 

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Get Involved: Sponsorship & Event Hosting Opportunities

With MiLP Canada’s rapid growth and official alignment with the CNPL, now is the perfect time for sponsors and event hosts to get involved. If your brand or venue is interested in partnering with one of Canada’s fastest-growing sports, reach out today. 

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 Contact MiLP Canada operators Full Send Pickleball at info@fullsendpickleball.com to explore sponsorship and event hosting opportunities.

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The future of Canadian pickleball has never been brighter—are you ready to be part of it?

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