FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — February 13, 2025 — The world of pickleball is set for a major transformation in South Florida as The Fort announces its official designation as the region’s DUPR Assessment Center. Known as the "Augusta of Pickleball" and the "Wimbledon of Pickleball," The Fort has quickly become one of the sport’s most prestigious and exciting venues. This landmark partnership with DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) — the world’s most accurate global rating system — and DUPR Coach will redefine how players of all levels are rated, compete, and improve their game.

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The Fort, located in the heart of Fort Lauderdale, is more than just a pickleball facility; it’s an experience. Featuring 43 professional regulation courts, 14 weatherproof, including the world’s first dedicated pickleball stadium, The Fort has quickly become a world-class destination. With cutting-edge technologies like FORTv, powered by Playsight for live-streaming matches, instant replays, and coaching analysis, the facility offers a unique, dynamic experience. Its proprietary engine will allow viewers to access and sort content by skill level, age, and type of play, providing the flexibility to watch both live and previous matches. This innovative approach is setting a new standard in the sport.

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But the excitement doesn’t stop at the courts. The Fort offers a unique blend of competitive play, social atmosphere, and South Florida lifestyle. Guests can enjoy made-from-scratch culinary delights at the Lakeside Kitchen and Bar, sip crafted beverages with friends, or dive into other amenities like golf simulators, a dart room, volleyball, beach tennis, paddleboarding, and even an onsite PT Center. Whether you’re at The Fort  to challenge your limits or simply soak in the vibe, The Fort delivers the perfect mix of social and athletic experiences. As a member, guest, or even a walk-in, you'll enjoy exclusive access to priority bookings, special events, and personalized opportunities to improve your game, ensuring the best possible experience.

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As part of this groundbreaking partnership, The Fort becomes the official venue in South Florida to offer DUPR Coach-Assigned Ratings at scale, available to all members, guests, and walk-ins. Every coach at The Fort will be a credentialed DUPR Coach, equipped to provide players with accurate, professional assessments of their skill level. With this official designation, The Fort will host DUPR Rating Sessions, allowing players to earn their DUPR ratings, find balanced, level-appropriate matches, and support beginners on their journey toward competitive league and tournament play.

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Additionally, PlaySight’s integration with DUPR and DUPR Coach elevates pickleball assessments, coaching, and player development to new heights. DUPR Coaches at The Fort will leverage this cutting-edge technology to rate players both in-person during DUPR Assessment Sessions and virtually through PlaySight’s cameras, ensuring an enhanced and more precise assessment experience.

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Kicking off its inaugural event on March 8, 2025, The Fort will officially launch its DUPR programming, with an even larger event to follow on March 21, 2025. These events will feature DUPR Rating Sessions, DUPR Open Play, a comprehensive schedule of player development clinics—all led by credentialed DUPR coaches—along with incredible vibes at the world’s premier pickleball destination. Be part of the inaugural event on March 8—sign up here, visit the PlayTheFort app for more details, and get ready for a game-changing experience!

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Becoming a member of The Fort means gaining exclusive access to everything this game-changing venue has to offer. As a member, you’ll enjoy priority booking for court time, leagues, lessons, events, early invitations to special events, and special perks across The Fort's world-class amenities. The Fort’s commitment to fostering a strong pickleball community ensures members will experience unparalleled opportunities to grow their game through structured programs and access to top-tier coaches. Plus, enjoy social gatherings, live music, and special events as part of the full South Florida lifestyle.

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“We are beyond excited to partner with The Fort as the official DUPR Assessment Center in South Florida,” said Tito Machado, CEO of DUPR. “The Fort is setting a new standard in pickleball, combining world-class facilities with a player-first approach that aligns perfectly with our mission to elevate the sport. By integrating DUPR Coach-Assigned Ratings and comprehensive programming, The Fort is not just enhancing how players are rated—it’s revolutionizing how they compete, improve, and grow, creating a dynamic and inclusive environment for all levels of players.”

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This partnership represents a pivotal moment in the rapidly expanding pickleball community of South Florida. With the area already being a hotspot for sports and tourism, The Fort adds a powerful new layer of opportunity for players at all levels to engage, improve, and thrive. By offering DUPR Coach-Assigned ratings, players will have access to a more personalized and precise understanding of their skill level, making it easier to join games that are perfectly suited to their abilities.

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“We’re incredibly excited to partner with DUPR and DUPR Coach to bring DUPR’s advanced player rating system to South Florida,” said Brad Tuckman, CEO of The Fort. “This isn’t just about providing top-notch facilities—it’s about fostering a community of players who can challenge and support each other. We understand the importance of ensuring that everyone enjoys the game at their own skill level, which is key to having the best experience at The Fort. Whether you’re here for fun social play or motivated to drive your DUPR rating higher with competitive play—who knows, maybe even become a pro one day—we’re strong supporters of all types of players. By becoming an official DUPR Assessment Center in South Florida, we’re giving players a pathway to success and a platform for their growth. This partnership helps create a space where players can measure their progress, refine their skills, and truly feel a sense of accomplishment in their pickleball journey. Whether it's fun or competitive, The Fort is the go-to place for all.”

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“As the official DUPR Assessment Center in South Florida, The Fort is not only enhancing the pickleball experience but also driving economic growth in the region. By offering the opportunity to receive a DUPR Coach-Assigned Rating and participate in DUPR programming, The Fort is fostering a dynamic and thriving pickleball community. This designation will attract both local and international visitors, boost tourism, and further solidify South Florida's reputation as a premier destination for world-class sports and recreation. The combination of this prestigious facility with DUPR ratings will leave a lasting impact on both the local economy and the sport’s evolution,” said Katie Nimitz, President of MyJourney Pickleball.

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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.

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DUPR is the official pickleball rating of leagues, tournaments and clubs around the world, including United Pickleball Association (UPA), Professional Pickleball Association (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 DUPR Coach

DUPR Coach is a program designed to empower pickleball coaches to launch DUPR Coach-Assigned 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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About The Fort

The Fort is South Florida’s premier pickleball destination, featuring 43 state-of-the-art courts and the world’s first pickleball stadium. Designed for players of all levels, The Fort offers the perfect setting for social and competitive play, professional instruction, and corporate events. With a focus on high-energy experiences and inclusive programming, The Fort is redefining the way people engage with the fastest-growing sport in America.

To become a member, learn more about DUPR programming, explore The Fort’s amenities, and register for upcoming events, visit playthefort.com.

The Dink Minor League Pickleball (MiLP) is making its way to Canada, bringing its innovative team-based competition format to a new and rapidly growing pickleball community. With successful expansions into multiple regions, MiLP is now set to introduce its unique team competition to players across Canada, offering guaranteed matches and an exciting, fast-paced format that has gained national attention in the U.S.

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Leading this expansion is Yui See Lau, who has been appointed as the Director of Minor League Pickleball Canada. After his remarkable success in launching MiLP in China, Yui will now take on the challenge of growing the league across Canada, bringing the same energy, expertise, and passion to the Canadian pickleball community. As Director, he will oversee and coordinate all MiLP events in Canada, working closely with local clubs, players, and partners to create unforgettable tournaments and experiences.

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“Pickleball’s growth in Canada has been phenomenal, and MiLP is thrilled to provide a competitive yet inclusive format that fosters community, teamwork, and high-level play,” said Lau. “We are eager to create an unforgettable experience for Canadian players and set the foundation for a strong and thriving MiLP presence.”

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The official launch will kick off with two highly anticipated events:

• APR 5 - MiLP IPOP - Inclusive Place of Pickleball (IPOP)
  • 9855 Austin Rd #2, Burnaby, BC V3J 1N4
• APR 26 - MiLP HiSports Vaughan
  • 8301 Keele St, Concord, ON L4K 1Z6

Each event will feature MiLP’s signature format: mixed teams of four players (two women, two men) competing in divisions based on their combined DUPR rating. Teams will face off in a round-robin competition, playing four 21-point games (two gendered, two mixed), ensuring an engaging and competitive experience for all participants.

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“I’m thrilled to bring Minor League Pickleball to Canada and help grow the game in a country with such a passionate sports community. After witnessing the excitement that Minor League Pickleball generated in China, I’m one hundred percent certain that Canadian players will also embrace this unique team format. Our goal is to create an inclusive, dynamic environment where athletes of all levels can compete, connect, and have fun. I can’t wait to see the energy on the courts this March,” added Lau.

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The expansion into Canada marks a significant milestone for Minor League Pickleball, reinforcing its commitment to growing the sport and providing players with high-quality, team-based competition. As excitement builds, Canadian pickleball enthusiasts are encouraged to stay tuned for further details and registration opportunities.

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For more information on MiLP Canada and upcoming events, visit www.dupr.com/minorleague or follow Minor League Pickleball on social media.

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About Minor League Pickleball

Minor League Pickleball is an innovative team competition featuring guaranteed matches in a dynamic round-robin format. Designed to enhance the competitive experience while fostering community engagement, MiLP continues to expand its reach and bring exciting new opportunities to pickleball players worldwide.

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2024 was a landmark year for pickleball’s global expansion, and 2025 is already shaping up to be even bigger. From the United Pickleball Association’s (UPA) international PPA series to leagues popping up in India, the sport is reaching new heights worldwide. 

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Here’s my take on the action so far and what’s coming next.  

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PPA Tour Australia: A New Frontier 

The PPA Tour made its Australian debut this year, partnering with the UPA to bring top-tier competition Down Under. Formerly known as the Pacific Pickleball League, the Proton Australia Pickleball Open (January 28-February 2) featured U.S. stars like Tyson McGuffin, Collin Johns, and Jesse Irvine alongside Australia’s best.  

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While American players dominated the podium, Australia’s Somer Dalla-Bona made waves in women’s singles, reaching the final before falling to Kaitlyn Christian. Andie Dikosavljevic also impressed, securing bronze. In doubles, Tyson McGuffin and Gabe Tardio clinched gold in a thrilling five-game men’s final, while Lacy Schneemann and Vivian Glozman took the women’s title.  

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One standout? Zane Navratil teaming up with Australian partners Joseph Wild and Roos van Reek. His fourth- and sixth-place finishes in men’s and mixed doubles, respectively, hint at the potential for more cross-border collaborations as the sport grows. 

World Pickleball League: A Star-Studded Debut 

The World Pickleball League (WPBL) kicked off in Mumbai, India, from January 24-February 2, featuring 48 players from 14 countries across six teams. U.S. players like Brandon and Glauka Lane, Maxwell Freeman, and Katerina Stewart (named “Player of the League”) brought their A-game, but it was Team Bengaluru Jawans who emerged as champions.  

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The league’s production was top-notch, with highlights flooding social media and a user-friendly website for matchups and results. If this is just the beginning, I can’t wait to see what’s next for WPBL.  

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Global Sports League & Indian Open: Double the Action 

From February 3-9, Mumbai will host the Global Sports Pro and Challenger League alongside the Indian Open. This unique format lets players compete individually in the morning and team up in the afternoon. With U.S. players like Kyle Yates, Heather Nobler, and Rianna Valdes in the mix, it’s anyone’s game.  

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Pickleball World Rankings: Big Names, Bigger Prizes  

Pickleball World Rankings (PWR) is making waves with its 2025 schedule, including the PWR DUPR Indian League (backed by Andre Agassi) and the PWR World Series, featuring $1.5 million prize pools in Dubai, Madrid, and Las Vegas. With rising stars like Somer Dalla-Bona and Emilia Schmidt joining the fray, the competition is heating up.  

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What’s Next?  

As pickleball continues to grow globally, questions remain: How will international players stack up against U.S. talent? Will we see more cross-border partnerships? And with so many events early in the year, what’s in store for the rest of the season?  

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One thing’s for sure: pickleball’s global takeover is just getting started. Stay tuned for more updates, and follow me for the latest from the court!  

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For results and highlights, visit pickleballtournaments.com and wpbl.org.

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‍Why Every Competitive Pickleball Player Needs an IDP

Most players train hard but never reach their full potential.

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They show up, play, and hope they improve. But hope isn’t a strategy.

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To compete at the highest level, you need a structured plan—one that identifies your weaknesses, maximizes your strengths, and creates a clear path for growth.

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That’s where an Individual Development Plan (IDP) comes in.

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This article will show you how to build your own IDP to systematically improve, train with purpose, and elevate your performance on the court.

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Understanding the Pickleball Performance Model

Many players focus on the wrong things. They drill the same shots over and over but neglect the bigger picture of what makes a complete athlete.

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To compete at an elite level, you need to develop in five key areas:

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1. Physical Performance – Your endurance, strength, speed, and recovery determine whether you can play at a high level for an entire match, or even a multi-day tournament.
2. Psychological Performance – The ability to handle pressure, stay focused, and bounce back after mistakes separates good players from great ones.
3. Intellectual Performance – Your daily habits, nutrition, hydration, sleep, and ability to learn from mistakes directly impact your energy and decision-making.
4. Technical Performance – Your strokes must be consistent, efficient, and effective under game conditions.
5. Tactical Performance – It’s not just about hitting great shots; you need to choose the right shot at the right time, anticipate opponents’ moves, and adapt on the fly. 

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Why This Matters: Ignoring any of these areas creates weaknesses in your game. The best players recognize their gaps and have a plan to improve all five.

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Next, let’s assess where you currently stand in each of these areas.

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Assessing Yourself – Where Do You Stand Today?

Most players think they know their strengths and weaknesses—but without a structured self-assessment, they’re just guessing.

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The problem? Blind spots.

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To improve quickly, you need a clear picture of what’s holding you back. Here’s how to do it:

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Step 1: Rate Yourself (1-4 Scale)

• 1 – Needs Improvement | 2 – Sufficient | 3 – Excellent | 4 – Outstanding
• Score yourself on physical endurance, focus under pressure, shot consistency, positioning, and other key areas.

Step 2: Get a Coach or Skilled Third Party’s Input

• They will see things you can’t.
• A coach can confirm if your self-assessment is accurate or highlight areas you overlooked.

Step 3: Answer This Question:
“If I don’t achieve my potential, it will be because of ______.”

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Why This Matters: This simple question forces you to confront your biggest limitations—so you can start fixing them.

Once you’ve identified your weaknesses, it’s time to prioritize what matters most.

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Setting Priorities – What Areas Need the Most Work?

Trying to fix everything at once leads to frustration and slow progress.

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The key? Laser-focus on 2-3 areas that will give you the biggest improvement.

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Rule #1: Prioritize Development Based on Competitive Edge

• What will most impact your game? Stamina? Shot consistency? Shot selection?

Rule #2: Never Neglect Your Strengths

• Double down on what you’re best at. If your forehand drive is elite, make it unstoppable.

Rule #3: Set SMART Goals

• Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound
• Example: Instead of "get better at dinks," say, "Improve dink consistency to 80% in live drills within 4 weeks."

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Why This Matters: Clear priorities = faster improvement. A scattered approach gets scattered results.

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With your priorities set, let’s build your Individual Development Plan.

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Section 4: Building Your Individual Development Plan (IDP)

A great plan is simple and actionable.

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Here’s how to structure your IDP:

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Step 1: Identify Specific Action Steps for Each Weakness

• Physical – Increase endurance → Add structured conditioning drills
• Mental – Improve focus → Develop pre-match mental routines
• Technical – More consistent third-shot drops → Focused drill sessions
• Tactical – Better doubles positioning → Film study & strategy work

Step 2: Implement a Feedback Loop

• Regular check-ins with a coach or mentor
• Tracking progress over weeks/months

Step 3: Adjust & Adapt Over Time

• Performance isn’t linear—some skills take longer to improve.
• Be flexible but stay consistent.

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Why This Matters: Having an IDP keeps you accountable and ensures you’re training with purpose instead of just playing more matches.

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Now that you have a plan, how do you execute it consistently?

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How to Execute & Stay Consistent

The best plan means nothing if you don’t stick to it.

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Most players start strong but lose focus over time. Here’s how to stay on track:

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Rule #1: Use the 80/20 Rule of Training

• 80% of your time should go toward your biggest growth areas.
• 20% should reinforce strengths.

Rule #2: Build Accountability into Your Plan

• Check-in weekly with a coach or training partner.
• Track progress in a training journal.

Rule #3: Use Competition as a Testing Ground

• Apply training under real match conditions.
• Watch game film to see progress and adjust strategy.

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Why This Matters: Players who train with a system and accountability make massive progress. Those who just "play more" stay stuck.

Let’s wrap it up.

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Elevate Your Game with a Proactive Approach

The difference between good and great players is not talent.

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It’s intentional development.

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Your IDP is your roadmap to success. Use it, refine it, and watch your game evolve.

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Next Step: Start your assessment today. Identify your weaknesses, build your plan, and take control of your development.

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Your success starts now. Let’s get to work.

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Author:

Erik Korem, PhD

CEO at AIM7

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Pickleball isn't just about doubles—singles play is an entirely different challenge that pushes your stamina, footwork, and shot precision to new heights. While doubles drills help build teamwork and strategy, incorporating singles-specific drills into your training routine can give you a competitive edge. Listen to these tips from Pro player Bobbi Oshiro.

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One of my go-to singles drills is called ISOS. This dynamic exercise requires two players and focuses on endurance, accuracy, and efficient movement around the court.

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How to Perform the ISOS Drill

1. Starting Positions:
   
   1. Player A begins on one side of the court, either the right or left.
   2. Player B starts in the middle of the court.
2. Drill Execution:
   
   1. Player A alternates between hitting cross-court and down-the-line shots.
   2. Player B’s goal is to return each shot back to Player A’s side, focusing on controlled and balanced strokes.
   3. The key is maintaining consistency, hitting accurate targets, and recovering quickly after each shot.
3. Drill Goal:
   
   1. Player B must successfully return 10 balls before switching roles.

This drill is a fantastic way to simulate real singles play, as it trains you to stay balanced while hitting on the run and improves your ability to recover efficiently between shots. Plus, it’s an incredible workout that will boost your endurance and sharpen your groundstrokes.

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Why Singles Drills Matter

Even if you primarily play doubles, working on singles-specific skills can improve every aspect of your game. Stronger footwork, faster reactions, and better shot placement will translate to success in all formats of pickleball.

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So next time you hit the court, challenge yourself with the ISOS drill and watch your singles (and doubles) game reach new levels. Have fun, keep pushing your limits, and stay committed to improving your skills!

The University of Texas at Austin pickleball team has been voted the College Team of the Year from the 2024 Dink Awards. This honor not only recognizes the team’s competitive success but also celebrates the strong sense of community and commitment that drives the program. 

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Over the past season, the UT Austin pickleball team has overcome challenges, celebrated memorable victories, and built a tight-knit community on and off the courts. Their achievements and engaging team culture have caught the attention of the broader pickleball community, making this award a significant marker of their success and impact on collegiate sports.

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Dink Awards Vote Breakdown

The Dink Awards have become a revered benchmark for excellence in collegiate pickleball. This year, the College Team of the Year award was decided by a robust total of 5,985 votes, demonstrating the widespread enthusiasm for the sport and for UT Austin’s program.

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• University of Texas — Austin: 1,152 votes (19.27%)
• Ohio State University: 528 votes (8.83%)
• University of Florida: 509 votes (8.51%)
• UNC Chapel Hill: 493 votes (8.25%)
• Utah Tech: 458 votes (7.66%)
• University of Southern California: 418 votes (6.99%)
• Florida Atlantic University: 394 votes (6.59%)
• University of Virginia: 372 votes (6.22%)
• Virginia Tech: 330 votes (5.52%)
• Purdue University: 235 votes (3.93%)
• Samford University: 230 votes (3.85%)
• Indiana University: 215 votes (3.60%)
• North Carolina State University: 156 votes (2.61%)
• Utah State University: 154 votes (2.58%)
• Clemson University: 148 votes (2.48%)
• Utah Valley University: 144 votes (2.41%)

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UT Austin clearly came out on top by capturing nearly 20% of all votes. That shows the program's big influence and the amazing support from its community.

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A Culture Built on Loyalty and Fun

The secret to UT Austin’s success lies in the team’s unique culture and deep-rooted loyalty. The program has fostered an environment where every member—from students to alumni—feels a profound connection to the team and the school. This enduring loyalty has been a cornerstone of their identity, both on and off the court.

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"What sets us apart is the unwavering loyalty our students, alumni, and friends have for our school and our team, which truly means a lot to us,” said UT Austin team captain, Jack Munro.

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This commitment goes beyond winning matches; it creates a family-like atmosphere where team dinners, social nights with DJs and food, and mandatory gatherings are all part of building lasting bonds. These events have helped solidify a culture that values both excellence in competition and camaraderie off the court.

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Memorable Victories and the Role of Key Players

The UT Austin team has experienced several unforgettable moments during the season, with one particular victory standing out as a turning point. The win at the Collegiate Individual Nationals not only put the team on the map but also created a legacy that continues to inspire the program. 

"Timmy was vital to win collegiate thenationals last year. I owe everything to Timmy. He saved seven match points,” Munro emphasized.

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This highlights the pivotal role that individual performances can play in lifting the entire team. Even as players graduate and move on to new opportunities, their contributions remain a lasting part of the team’s identity, symbolized by the banner proudly displayed at Urban Pickleball. 

Such victories not only boost the team's confidence but also cement their reputation as one of the premier collegiate pickleball programs in the nation.

Overcoming the Challenges of Collegiate Pickleball

Running a collegiate pickleball program comes with a unique set of challenges, and UT Austin’s journey has been a testament to learning through trial and error. Without a clear blueprint for managing everything from flight bookings to scheduling practices and hosting tryouts, the team has had to innovate on the fly. 

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This learning process has involved seeking advice from other programs and adapting strategies to fit their unique needs.

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Logistical challenges aside, the team has also faced the task of building a competitive structure from scratch. Smaller tournaments such as the Texas Super Regional and the Baylor Invitational have served as critical stepping stones. 

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These events allow the team to gauge the level of regional competition and gain valuable experience, ensuring that they are fully prepared for the national stage.

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Leadership and the Importance of Team Bonding

Strong leadership has been a vital component in navigating both the triumphs and trials of the season. The team’s leadership structure, which includes captains on both the men’s and women’s sides, has been instrumental in maintaining focus and morale. Alongside these leaders, Coach Terry McCarthy has played an indispensable role in organizing the team, managing logistics, and providing unwavering support.

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"Leadership was huge—being the captain, having Zoeya Khan lead on the female side, and our coach Terry McCarthy who helped us with everything from setting up to booking flights. We owe so much to Terry; he even gave us our first jerseys when we had none,” Munro said.

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This blend of strong leadership and team bonding has allowed UT Austin to maintain a balance between competitive intensity and a fun, inclusive environment. The regular team dinners, social nights, and other bonding activities have not only boosted morale but have also created an atmosphere where every member feels valued and driven to contribute to the collective success.

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Building a Legacy for the Future

Winning the College Team of the Year award is more than just a recognition of past achievements—it is a stepping stone to future success. The award is expected to strengthen the program’s case for institutional support, such as the installation of permanent pickleball courts at the university. 

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Such developments would ensure that the team continues to thrive and attract top-tier talent, further establishing UT Austin as a powerhouse in collegiate pickleball. In addition to seeking better facilities, the team has set its sights on ambitious goals for the coming seasons. 

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They aim to secure back-to-back national titles, even as they navigate changes in player partnerships and adapt to new competitive challenges. The future of UT Austin pickleball is bright, with plans to expand the team’s social presence and continue building a legacy that will inspire future generations of student-athletes.

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"[The] jobs not finished,” stressed Munro. “Our goal is to win another back-to-back title and keep growing our social side. It’s where you meet people, where we vibe. For kids coming to UT or getting into collegiate pickleball, it’s going to be one of the best decisions of your life."

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This forward-looking vision encapsulates the team’s determination to remain at the forefront of collegiate pickleball while also nurturing a community that values both athletic excellence and personal growth.

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The Future Impact of UT Austin’s Success

The recognition as College Team of the Year at the Dink Awards marks a pivotal moment for the UT Austin pickleball program. This accolade is a testament to the team’s hard work, strong leadership, and the supportive community that rallies behind them. As they continue to build on this success, the program is poised to influence the broader collegiate sports landscape and pave the way for future pickleball athletes.

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With an eye on further national success and improved facilities, UT Austin is set to lead the evolution of collegiate pickleball. The program’s innovative approach, underpinned by a deep sense of loyalty and a vibrant team culture, will undoubtedly inspire new players to join and contribute to the sport. 

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The UT Austin pickleball team’s journey is a great example of what can be achieved with passion, perseverance, and a commitment to the community. Their recent recognition at the Dink Awards is not just a win for the team—it is a win for every member of the UT Austin community and a beacon for future generations in collegiate pickleball.

PKLYN is excited to announce its designation as the first official DUPR Assessment Center in New York City—marking a significant step forward in the growth of pickleball in the New York Metro Area and fostering community through skill-based play at every level.

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After years of development, PKLYN opened its five-court pickleball club in Brooklyn’s Gowanus neighborhood in October 2024. Since then, the club has earned a strong reputation for its player-centered programming that enhances the experience for all skill levels and promotes growth. Now, in partnership with My DUPR Coach, DUPR Coach, and DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating)—the global standard for pickleball skill assessment—PKLYN is taking the next bold step in its mission to provide players of all abilities with opportunities for challenging and enjoyable play. All coaches at PKLYN are now credentialed DUPR Coaches, with the ability to assess and rate players.

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“DUPR ratings are a powerful tool to improve the pickleball experience by ensuring more balanced, enjoyable, and competitive play for everyone,” said Duy Tran, Director of Pickleball Operations at PKLYN. “Now, in addition to participating in competitive formats, players can receive a clear sense of their skill level through an initial DUPR rating. Our new Coach-Assigned DUPR ratings will help players better understand where they stand and make it easier for them to find level-appropriate games, removing the frustration of trying to find the right match.”

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The introduction of DUPR Assessment Sessions and Events at PKLYN gives players the opportunity to work with credentialed coaches to assess their skills and receive a Coach-Assigned DUPR. This makes PKLYN the first official DUPR Assessment Center for pickleball in New York City and the surrounding metropolitan area. PKLYN will continue to host a robust calendar of DUPR events like round robin tournaments and leagues, providing additional opportunities for players to earn their ratings through matches. By creating pathways for fair and exciting play, PKLYN and DUPR are elevating the pickleball experience for all players and contributing to the growth of the sport.

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What Is DUPR and Why Does It Matter?

DUPR is the premier global rating system for pickleball. With the combination of the DUPR Coach program and the My DUPR Coach app, players receive skill assessments from credentialed DUPR coaches, helping them better understand their abilities and connect with opponents of similar skill levels. Competitive play not only enhances the enjoyment of the game, but it’s also key to skill development, building community, and elevating the overall pickleball experience.

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“We’re thrilled to partner with PKLYN as the first official DUPR Assessment Center in New York City,” said Ryan Maher, VP of Commercial Operations. “New York has an incredibly dynamic pickleball community, and PKLYN’s commitment to player development and competitive growth aligns perfectly with our mission. By offering Coach-Assigned DUPR ratings, PKLYN is setting the standard for how players can connect, improve, and elevate their game. This is just the beginning of DUPR’s expansion in the region, and we’re excited to support the growth of pickleball across the city.”

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How to Get Your Coach-Assigned DUPR Rating

Starting February 8th, PKLYN will offer DUPR Assessments, where players can work with PKLYN coaches to evaluate their skills and receive a Coach-Assigned DUPR Rating. This opportunity is ideal for players looking to join level-appropriate games, compete in tournaments, or simply gain a clearer understanding of their pickleball abilities.

To learn more, visit PKLYN.com, or download the PKLYN app to get started.

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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 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.

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DELRAY BEACH, Fla., Jan. 27, 2025 – Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR) is proud to announce that Reign Storm is the official energy drink of the DUPR Collegiate Tour.

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As the official partner, Reign Storm will provide clean, plant-based energy to players and spectators throughout the tour, expanding the brand’s large presence in the pickleball space.

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The duo makes for the perfect doubles partners, with DUPR and Reign Storm both dedicated to fueling the growth of collegiate pickleball across the nation.

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Reign Storm, a clean energy drink designed to support active lifestyles, has long been a dedicated supporter of the pickleball community and DUPR is the premier global pickleball rating system in the country.

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This partnership marks Reign Storm’s first major foray into the rapidly growing collegiate pickleball scene, where DUPR is leading the charge as the owner and operator of the largest collegiate pickleball tournament in the country.

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“Reign Storm is thrilled to partner with DUPR and do its part to champion the new class of pickleball athletes,” said Reign Storm General Manager Tim Ryder. “Our focus has always been on boosting players at every level of play, and DUPR’s dynamic approach to uniting players aligns perfectly with our mission to do the same.”

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The DUPR Collegiate Tour aims to elevate collegiate pickleball through competitive events, advanced ratings technology, and partnerships with leading brands.

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“Reign Storm’s focus on supporting active lifestyles and inclusivity in sports makes them the perfect partner for the DUPR Collegiate Tour,” said Jacob Smith, Director of Collegiate Pickleball at DUPR. “Together, we’re not just fueling athletes on the court but building a stronger foundation for collegiate pickleball’s future.”

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The DUPR Collegiate Tour will feature tournaments across the U.S., highlighting the energy and competitiveness of college athletes while promoting DUPR’s innovative rating system that unifies the sport across age, gender, and location. Reign Storm’s presence at each event will include on-site activations, giveaways, and opportunities for players and fans to experience the brand firsthand.

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About Reign Storm

Reign Storm contains zero sugar, just 10 calories, 200 mg of plant-based caffeine, is packed with B vitamins, Biotin and an immunity support blend containing Zinc, Vitamin A and C. The drinks help people Live Life Better as they have no added preservatives, no artificially sourced flavors or colors, and no high fructose corn syrup. Available in nine amazing flavors: the new Tropical as well as Guava Strawberry, Mango, Strawberry Apricot, Citrus Zest, Valencia Orange, Kiwi Blend, Peach Nectarine, and Harvest Grape.

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Reign Storm is available in the US, Canada, Caribbean, Brazil, Chile, and across Europe; ingredients and flavors featured in the above description vary for countries outside of the US. For more information about Reign Storm, please visit its website www.reignstorm.com, or Instagram @drinkreignstorm

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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.

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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.