Major League Pickleball’s 2024 Champions, the Dallas Flash, partner with DUPR to Launch “Road to Minors” - A Team-Based Opportunity for Amateur Players to Compete and Represent the Flash.

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The Road To Minors Tournament Series is the first-ever year-round program dedicated to identifying and developing local talent, creating a pathway for amateurs to play for the Dallas Flash in Minor League Pickleball DUPR-rated Teams, and compete in Road to Minors sponsored tournaments, along with MLP Dallas Event special perks in July 2025.

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Dallas, TX — March 22, 2025 — Major League Pickleball (MLP), the Dallas Flash Pickleball team, and Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR) are excited to announce the launch of their highly anticipated Road to Minors (RTM) series for North Texas, kicking off next week on March 22nd through March 23rd, 2025. This series will offer players the opportunity to try-out for a coveted spot on the Dallas Flash team to compete at the Minor League Pickleball Midsouth Regional Showdown June 28th & 29th.

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The Road to Minors series will continue in 2025 with an RTM Cup tournament, providing further opportunities for players to qualify and represent their region at The Dink Minor League Pickleball National Championship in December 2025. This multi-stage series promises to be a thrilling journey for aspiring pickleball players, culminating in the chance to compete on the national stage.

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In addition to the RTM series, the Dallas Flash will host the highly anticipated MLP Dallas Event from July 23rd to 27th, 2025. This exciting event will feature top pickleball talent from around the world, showcasing the best of Major League Pickleball in the heart of Dallas. All RTM players, as well as competitors at the Minor League Pickleball Midsouth Regional Showdown, will receive special perks to attend the MLP Dallas Event.

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“We are excited to continue developing our community engagement and creating pathways for players to develop their pickleball game,” said Mark Molthan, owner of the Dallas Flash. “The Road to Minors series is an incredible opportunity for players in Texas and surrounding states to elevate their game and be part of the growing pickleball movement.”

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As the official pickleball rating system of Major League Pickleball and Minor League Pickleball, DUPR plays a pivotal role in identifying and ranking the top emerging talent in the sport. Through the Road to Minors series, DUPR continues its mission to create a seamless competitive pathway for amateurs and aspiring professional players of all ages and at every skill level.

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“DUPR is committed to expanding the accessibility of competitive pickleball at every level,” said Caroline Luelf, Director of Minor League Pickleball at DUPR. “By partnering with Major League Pickleball and the Dallas Flash, we are ensuring that players have the best opportunities to develop their game, compete at a higher level, and ultimately progress through the ranks in a fair and structured way.”

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Registration for the Road to Minors events is now open! Players eager to be part of the action can sign up directly through Pickleball.com. Don’t miss your chance to compete in this exciting series and take your game to the next level.

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For more information on the Road to Minors series, the Minor League Pickleball Midsouth Regional Showdown, and the MLP Dallas Event, please visit Pickleball.com or follow us on social media @roadtominors @officialminorleaguepb @dallasflashpb @duprpb @majorleaguepb for the latest updates.

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About Dallas Flash‍

Dallas Flash Pickleball was formed in 2023 by Mark Molthan, Todd Wagner, and Mark Cuban. Mark Molthan is a successful business leader and entrepreneur based in Dallas, known for his expertise in luxury home building and interior design. As the owner and managing director of Dallas Flash Pickleball, Molthan brings with him a wealth of experience in business management and a passion for sports. Molthan sees a unique opportunity to foster and rally the community around Dallas Flash Pickleball.

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In 2024, the Dallas Flash achieved a historic milestone by being crowned the inaugural season-long champions of the 2024 Major League Pickleball Season. The No. 3 seed Dallas Flash secured their championship title with a dramatic 2-1 series victory over the No. 1 seed New Jersey 5s at the Vulcan MLP Playoffs Orlando, held at the USTA National Campus. Their journey to the Championship included an impressive Semifinal series win against the No. 2 seed St. Louis Shock. The Dallas Flash continue to inspire fans with their cohesive teamwork, unwavering resilience, and dedication to growing 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), 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 and follow us on Instagram to sign up and learn more.

About MiLP 

Minor League Pickleball (MLP), owned and operated by DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating), is the premier amateur pickleball tour and a one-of-a-kind platform offering players a “play like the pros” experience. Modeled after Major League Pickleball, MiLP has been empowering amateur teams to compete at the highest level for several years. Teams participate in a series of local events that culminate in the highly anticipated Nationals event each year, with $XXX prize money on the line.

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With its unique team-based format, Minor League Pickleball has not only grown to become the largest amateur pickleball tour but has also served as a proving ground for future professional players. Notable alumni like Connor Garnett have made the leap to the pro ranks, showcasing the league’s ability to develop talent. Whether you’re aiming to sharpen your skills or compete for glory, Minor League Pickleball is the ultimate pathway for passionate players to elevate their game.

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About Major League Pickleball

Major League Pickleball is the preeminent team-based professional pickleball league, featuring nearly 100 of the best athletes across 22 teams, a unique coed format, easy to understand scoring, iconic team owners, and the most electric live events and fan experience in the sport. For more information on Major League Pickleball, visit the official website and follow MLP on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.

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For more information, please contact megan@dallasflashpb.com

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Competitive club pickleball just got a major upgrade. DUPR is excited to announce a new partnership with the Cross Club Pickleball League (CPL), a fast-growing, structured league in the Northeast and beyond, where players represent their indoor pickleball clubs and battle against others in their region. 

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With playoffs, championships, and even all-star games, CPL is redefining club-based competition—bringing a fresh, high-energy format to the sport.

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“Through this partnership, CPL will integrate DUPR’s trusted rating system into league play, ensuring accurate, universal, and dynamic player ratings across all matches,” said Robert Oddy, Co-Founder at Cross Club Pickleball League.

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As CPL expands beyond its origins in New Jersey and Pennsylvania into new regions, players can expect a seamless, data-driven way to track their progress and compete at their level.

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“CPL is bringing a new level of excitement and structure to competitive pickleball in the Northeast, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to support their growth,” said Ryan Maher, DUPR’s VP of Partnerships. “By integrating DUPR, players will have a consistent and reliable way to measure their skill, improve their game, and compete on a broader scale. This partnership is another step forward in making pickleball more accessible, competitive, and connected than ever.”

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With DUPR powering the competition, players in CPL can enjoy fair matchups, clear progression, and a pathway to higher-level play—whether they’re battling for club pride or a championship title.

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Stay tuned for more updates as CPL and DUPR continue to shape the future of club-based pickleball competition!

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Columbus, OH – 05/10/2025 – The Columbus Sliders, a premier franchise in Major League Pickleball (MLP), are thrilled to announce the launch of their own Minor League Pickleball (MiLP) event, scheduled for April 19. This milestone event will be organized by Fernando Esquivel, who has been appointed as the Tournament Director, bringing extensive expertise in event management and competitive play.

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The MiLP event marks a pivotal step in the Sliders’ mission to foster talent development, expand community engagement, and create a direct pipeline for players aspiring to reach the professional ranks. By hosting their own MiLP event, the Columbus Sliders are investing not just in their franchise's future but also in the broader growth of the sport at the grassroots level.

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"We’re excited to host our first The Dink Minor League Pickleball event and provide players with a platform to showcase their skills in a competitive environment," said Fernando Esquivel, Director of Operations. "Fernando Esquivel’s leadership as Tournament Director ensures a top-tier event that aligns with the Sliders’ commitment to excellence on and off the court."

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This event also strategically aligns with the upcoming Major League Pickleball event in Columbus just weeks later on May 1st-4th, creating a seamless pathway between MiLP and MLP for fans, players, and sponsors alike. The synergy between these events offers an unparalleled opportunity to engage the local pickleball community, attract new fans, and spotlight emerging talent.

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"The Columbus Sliders’ commitment to hosting their own Minor League Pickleball event is a testament to the rapid growth and impact of MiLP within the pickleball community,” said Caroline Luelf, Director of Minor League Pickleball at DUPR. “By creating more opportunities for players to compete at a high level, they’re not just developing talent—they’re helping to build the future of the sport. We’re thrilled to support this event and look forward to seeing the energy and competition it brings to Columbus." 

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Event Highlights:

• Date: April 19
• Location: Pickle & Chill in Columbus, OH
• Format: Minor League Pickleball (MiLP) tournament, with top talent competing for recognition and advancement opportunities
• Player Opportunities: all players who sign up for the amateur tournament presented by the MLP on May 1-4, will receive a discount and be able to play in MiLP for $5 per player, and winners of each division will earn medals for their division. 
• Tournament Director: Fernando Esquivel, known for his expertise in organizing high-caliber pickleball events

Registration details are available via dupr.com/minorleague for players interested in competing. Fans can look forward to an action-packed day of pickleball, community activities, and opportunities to connect with the Sliders family.

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About Columbus Sliders‍

The Columbus Sliders are a proud franchise in Major League Pickleball, dedicated to excellence, community engagement, and the growth of pickleball at every level. Through innovative events, player development programs, and a passion for the game, the Sliders are shaping the future of pickleball in Columbus and beyond. They are going into 2025 with a strong roster and ambitious mentality.

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About MiLP

Minor League Pickleball (MiLP), owned and operated by DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating), is the premier amateur pickleball tour and a one-of-a-kind platform offering players a “play like the pros” experience. Modeled after Major League Pickleball, MiLP has been empowering amateur teams to compete at the highest level for several years. Teams participate in a series of local events that culminate in the highly anticipated Nationals event each year. With its unique team-based format,

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Minor League Pickleball has not only grown to become the largest amateur pickleball tour but has also served as a proving ground for future professional players. Notable alumni like Connor Garnett have made the leap to the pro ranks, showcasing the league’s ability to develop talent. Whether you’re aiming to sharpen your skills or compete for glory, Minor League Pickleball is the ultimate pathway for passionate players to elevate their game.

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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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For media inquiries, please contact:

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Kyrill Hartog
VP Marketing & Communications
kyrill@mydupr.com

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What is a 3.0 pickleball player? What’s the rating for a beginner? How good is a 4.5 player? With so many different rating systems, it can be confusing to know where you truly stand. But here's the thing—only one rating system helps you track your progress accurately while also letting you compare yourself with players worldwide and that’s DUPR. The rest are mostly used for local U.S. tournaments, taking away the chance to compare yourself with the best players around the globe.

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It all depends on which pickleball rating scale you’re using. In this guide, we’ll break down all the different pickleball rating systems so you can start signing up for the right open plays and tournaments while tracking your progress more conveniently.

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What You Must Know Before Selecting a Pickleball Rating System

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There are three primary pickleball rating systems, each differing in scale, calculation methods, accuracy, accessibility, and reach:

1. Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR)

• Scale: 2.000 to 8.000
• Calculation: Uses a modified elo algorithm, factoring in opponent strength, match score, recency, and match type.
• Accuracy: Adjusts dynamically based on both recreational and competitive play.
• Accessibility: Free to use, allowing players to self-report and log matches from anywhere.‍
• Reach: Global system, making it the most widely accepted rating in pickleball.

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2. UTR-Pickleball (UTR-P)

1. Scale: 1.0 (beginner) to 10.0 (pro).
2. Calculation: Ratings based on match performance, with a distinction between verified (sanctioned) and unverified (casual) matches.
3. Accuracy: It correlates with a high frequency of participation in sanctioned events. 
4. Accessibility: Verified ratings require participation in official matches.
5. Reach: Mainly used in the U.S.

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3. USA Pickleball Tournament Player Ratings (UTPR)

3. Scale: 1.0 (beginner) to 6.0+ (pro).
4. Calculation: Based solely on results from USA Pickleball-sanctioned tournaments.
5. Accuracy: Limited as it does not account for recreational play or non-sanctioned matches.
6. Accessibility: Only updates when players compete in official USA Pickleball events.
7. Reach: Strictly U.S.-based and used only for USA Pickleball-sanctioned tournaments.

Understanding Pickleball Skill Levels

Players are classified into different skill levels based on their ability to rally, control shots, and strategize in a match:

• Beginner : Just learning the game, developing basic strokes, and understanding rules.
• Intermediate: Can rally consistently, understands court positioning, and is learning strategy.
• Advanced: Strong shot accuracy, solid strategy, and the ability to handle fast-paced play.
• Expert/Pro: High-level tournament players with exceptional skills, court awareness, and strategic execution.

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Now, let’s take a look at how each system categorizes players

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UTR-P and UTPR are USA pickleball ratings that do not line up, and players are explicitly expressing their frustration about it on pickleball forums.  A 4.0 UTR-P player is actually a 3.0 in UTPR, making it difficult to understand where you really belong. This mismatch affects tournament sign-ups and player comparisons. 

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Check out what players are saying on pickleball forums about their experience with ratings:

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To skip the confusion, and ensure a simpler and more accurate way to define skill levels and track progress, the majority of players worldwide—including those in the U.S.—use the DUPR rating scale system.  Unlike other rating systems that are only used in the U.S., DUPR is recognized worldwide—so you always know where you stand, no matter where you play.

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Another big win? DUPR is free and accessible. You don’t need to play in official tournaments to get a rating—just log in your recreational matches and your rating adjusts automatically. The more you play, the more accurate it becomes.

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No matter what level you’re at, having the right rating will help you sign up for the correct divisions, track your improvement, and play against the right competition. So why guess when you can get it right? Sign up for DUPR today and start tracking your progress the right way!

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If you’ve already explored Pro Pickleball Player, Bobbi Oshiro’s first post on singles drills, you’re off to a great start! Now, it’s time to build on those skills with another dynamic drill that will sharpen your shot placement, movement, and decision-making. If you haven't checked out Part 1, make sure to read that first!

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ISO’s Drill: Take It to the Next Level

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The ISO drill is already a great way to work on control and consistency, but adding variations can make it even more effective. In this version, you’ll incorporate volleys and refine your movement at the kitchen, simulating the fast-paced exchanges of a real match.

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Drill Setup:

• Player A starts at the non-volley zone (either right or left side).
• Player B begins at the baseline, positioned in the middle of the court.

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How It Works:

• Player A alternates shots cross-court and down the line.
• Player B must return each shot with either a drive or a drop.
• For the first 10 shots, Player B focuses on driving the ball.
• The next 10 shots should be all drops.
• After completing the set, switch roles and repeat.

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Why This Drill Works

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By mixing up your shots, you’re improving both offensive and defensive strategies. Driving the ball forces your opponent to react quickly, while dropping the ball helps develop touch and control under pressure. Plus, playing at the non-volley zone challenges your reaction speed and positioning, making you more prepared for real match scenarios.

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Want even more ways to refine your singles game? Keep experimenting with different shot selections, movement patterns, and intensity levels. And if you missed Part 1, be sure to check it out for additional drills to round out your training.

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Stay tuned for more ways to elevate your game! 

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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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