‍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.

If you're new to pickleball, you're in for a fun ride! Whether you're looking to pick it up as a casual hobby or dive deeper into the competitive side, understanding the rules of pickleball is your first step. Let’s break down the pickleball basics, explain the pickleball game rules, and share pickleball tips for beginners to help you get started. Plus, we’ll introduce you to DUPR—a great way to track your progress and connect with other players!

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What is Pickleball?

Before jumping into the pickleball rules, let’s quickly explain what the game is. Pickleball is a fast-paced sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It’s played with a paddle and a perforated plastic ball, and the objective is to score points by getting the ball over the net and into the opponent's court. It can be played one-on-one or in teams of two.

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How to Play Pickleball: A Beginner's Guide

If you're wondering how to play pickleball, it’s simple! The game is played on a rectangular court with a net in the middle. Here’s a quick rundown of the pickleball basics:

1. Serve: The game starts with the serve. To serve, stand behind the baseline, keep the paddle below your waist, and hit the ball diagonally into the opponent's service box. The serve must be underhand and clear the net.
2. Return: After the serve, the opponent must return the ball. This is done by hitting the ball back over the net, aiming to land it in the opponent’s court. The ball must clear the net and stay inbounds.
3. Rally: Once both players have hit the ball back and forth, it becomes a rally. You’ll continue hitting the ball until one side fails to return it or hits it out of bounds.
4. The Kitchen: The non-volley zone near the net is called the kitchen. You can't step into the kitchen and hit the ball before it bounces unless you’re standing behind the line. This rule helps keep the game safe and strategic.

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Pickleball Rules Explained

Now that you have a basic understanding, let’s dive into the pickleball game rules you need to know:

1. Scoring: Only the serving side can score points. A point is earned if the opponent faults (e.g., misses the ball, hits it out, or steps into the kitchen). Games are typically played to 11 points, and you must win by at least 2 points.
2. Pickleball Scoring Rules: In pickleball scoring rules, players must call out the score before each serve. The score is stated as: server score – receiver score. For example, 3-2 means the server has 3 points, and the receiver has 2 points.
3. Double Bounce Rule: After the ball is served, it must bounce once on each side before players can volley (hit the ball in the air without a bounce). This rule makes the game more strategic.
4. Faults: A fault occurs when a player makes an error, like missing the ball, hitting it out of bounds, or stepping into the kitchen. Faults result in the loss of a point or serve.

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Pickleball Tips for Beginners

If you’re just starting out, here are some pickleball tips for beginners to help you improve your game:

• Practice your serve: Serving is key to starting the point off right. Make sure you get comfortable with underhand serves and aim for accuracy.
• Stay patient: Pickleball can be fast but try to focus on making accurate shots instead of rushing to hit the ball.
• Move your feet: Positioning yourself properly is essential. Keep your feet moving to get into the best spot for each shot.
• Communicate in doubles: If you're playing doubles, communication with your partner is crucial. Make sure you both know who’s covering which side of the court.

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Track Your Progress with DUPR

As you start mastering the pickleball game rules and improving your skills, tracking your progress becomes important. That’s where DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) comes in! DUPR is a player rating system that helps you measure your skills and compare your performance against others in the pickleball community. Whether you’re playing for fun or looking to compete, DUPR offers a fair and dynamic way to track your growth in the sport.

By using DUPR, you can find local players of similar skill levels and join competitive games that match your experience. It’s an excellent tool for pickleball for beginners and seasoned players alike. Download the DUPR app today on iOS and Android!

DUPR and the UPA are joining forces to elevate collegiate pickleball even higher with the launch of the Collegiate Pickleball Tour (CPT)! Everything you’ve loved about DUPR Collegiate Pickleball is now enhanced with opportunities to play and showcase college talent at PPA and MLP tournaments.

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With new events, and more paths to pro, players will have every opportunity to grow in collegiate pickleball. Read below to see what the Collegiate Pickleball Tour has in store for 2025!

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MLP Mid-Season Tournament

Your chance to prove yourself against the best pickleball teams in the world is here! The two finalist schools of the 2025 Collegiate National Championship will be invited to compete in the 2025 Major League Pickleball Mid-season Tournament in Grand Rapids, Michigan. There, they will play in the challenger bracket against MLP teams, and are eligible to win prize money and represent their school at the highest level.

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Collegiate World Championship

Collegiate pickleball is going worldwide! Launching in Fall of 2025, collegiate players from all countries across the world will have the opportunity to represent their country at the Collegiate World Championships (CWC). This two day team event will be held the weekend before UPA Worlds and will showcase the top international talent to ultimately crown the first ever Collegiate World Champions. 

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Here are the registration details to know:

• All collegiate pickleball players from all countries are invited to compete
• Your team must have 2-3 male and 2-3 female players on it
• All players from your team must be representing the same country
• You are allowed to team up with players from different universities
• You can either represent the country your university is in, or the country you were born in

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To determine the World Champion, we will have group play matches on Saturday that will feed into playoff brackets on Sunday. The top performing team from each country from group play will represent the country in the championship playoff bracket on Sunday. More details will be released as we get closer to the date!

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Collegiate National Championship

After an electrifying Nationals tournament in 2024, we’re excited to announce that the 2025 Collegiate National Championship (CNC) will be held at Life Time Peachtree Corners in Atlanta, GA! We’ll be using the same 64 team format as last year, plus introducing a 32 team bracket for 2nd teams and schools without a bid! Here is the link to register!

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64 Schools - 1st Team Bracket

In order to compete in this bracket, your school must have earned a bid through one of these ways:

• Earned at the 2024 Collegiate National Championship (24 given out)
• Earned at a Super Regional (4 given out at each, 4 Super Regionals)
• Earned at a Campus Regional (1 given out at each, 18 Campus Regionals)
• Earned through Dual Matches (2 given out)
• Given a Wildcard bid (4 given out)

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The 64 schools that receive a bid will be sorted into 16 groups of 4 teams, with all groups having an equal amount of DUPR. After group play finishes, all 64 teams will then be sorted into the 64 team single elimination bracket (here is the 2024 bracket). In order to become the National Champion, you’ll have to win 6 elimination matches in a row!

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Scholarship Money Breakdown: (1st team bracket)

• 1st: $15,000
• 2nd: $5,000
• 3rd & 4th: $2,500
• 5th through 8th: $1,250

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32 Schools - 2nd Team Bracket

This bracket is open to both 2nd teams from schools that have a bid, or the 1st team from schools that didn’t get a bid. 

• If your school has a bid, you can sign up for the 2nd team bracket immediately
• If your school doesn’t have a bid, you can sign up the 2nd team bracket after March 9th if there are still open spots
  
  • If your school earns their bid after you already signed up for the 2nd team bracket, you will be promoted into the 1st team bracket
• The combined DUPR of your top 2 male and top 2 female players must be higher on your 1st team than your 2nd team
• If you have a bid, you must play in the 1st team bracket, you cannot opt to only play in the 2nd team bracket

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Scholarship Money Breakdown: (2nd team bracket)

• 1st: $3,000
• 2nd: $1,000
• 3rd & 4th: $500

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Challenger Bracket

The Challenger Bracket will be split into Men’s Doubles, Mixed Doubles, and Women’s Doubles. Depending on the registrations, more splits will be made based on DUPR to create high-quality games for all Challenger Bracket players. 

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Scholarship Money Breakdown: (Challenger bracket)

• $1000: School that brings the most players to the tournament
• $1000: School that brings the best performing challenger teams (min. 3 teams)
• $500: For the winner of each challenger bracket

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Super Regionals

The lifeblood of collegiate pickleball, Super Regionals provide regional opportunities for teams to earn a bid to the Collegiate National Championship, as well as some scholarship money! Each Super Regional gives out 4 bids to Nationals and $6000 in scholarship money to the top performing teams. The Georgia Super Regional on February 1st-2nd this year is the largest collegiate regional of all time, with 272 players from 25 schools! Here are the Super Regionals for the 2025 spring semester:

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• February 1st-2nd, Georgia Super Regional, Pickle & Social in Atlanta, GA
• February 8th-9th, Ohio Super Regional, Paddle Taps in Columbus, OH
• March 1st-2nd, New Jersey Super Regional, Robbinsville Pickle House in Robbinsville Twp, NJ
• March 8th-9th, Arizona Super Regional, The Picklr in Scottsdale, AZ

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Super Regionals for the 2025 fall semester to 2026 spring semester season are still being scheduled. 

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Showcase Matches

We’re bringing the college action under the lights on championship court at PPA tour stops in 2025! Showcase Matches will feature college teams competing in dual matches against each other on PPA livestream. Certain stops will showcase top teams playing against and with PPA Pros and the top PPA Juniors talent. Matches played between schools will be counted as official dual matches. For more information about dual matches, read our blog post here. 

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• February 22nd, Carvana Mesa Cup, Arizona Athletic Grounds in Mesa, AZ
• March 8th, Veolia Cape Coral Open, Lake Kennedy Racquet Center in Orlando, FL
• March 15th, Texas Open, The Courts at McKinney in McKinney, TX
• March 26th, Red Rock Open, Little Valley in St. George, UT
• April 5th, North Carolina Open, Cary Tennis Park in Cary, NC

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• The Collegiate Pickleball Tour will bring together the best college pickleball clubs for a series of competitive and showcase events - with 200+ collegiate teams and 4,000+ athletes expected to participate
• Prize pool for teams exceeds $100,000 for the tour, which is presented by the Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR) and the United Pickleball Association (UPA)
• The Collegiate National Champions and Runners-Up will have the opportunity to play against professionals at the Major League Pickleball Mid-Season Tournament

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Dallas, TX, January 29/30, 2025 - In a watershed moment for the growth of pickleball at colleges and universities across the country, The Collegiate Pickleball Tour begins 2025 as a joint venture between the Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR) and the United Pickleball Association (UPA). The collaboration will elevate collegiate pickleball through new opportunities for athletes as well as a generous prize purse to help fund the participating pickleball clubs.

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The competitive calendar will consist of 30 Campus Regionals and eight Super Regionals, culminating in the marquee Collegiate National Championship in Atlanta in the Spring and Collegiate World Championship in Dallas in the fall. In addition, 10 Collegiate Showcases will take place at Carvana PPA Tour events, where two top collegiate teams from the region will compete in a dual match. This unique opportunity will allow these young athletes the opportunity to play where the top pros in the world play and have their teams showcased through coverage on the PPA Tour’s channels.

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The Collegiate Pickleball Tour will offer more than $100,000 in prize money to the participating athletes and their teams, crucial funds that will help sustain and grow the sport on campuses across the country. The champions and runners-up of the Collegiate National Championships in the spring will earn bids to compete against the top professionals in the world at the Major League Pickleball Mid-Season Tournament in Grand Rapids, MI in the summer.

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The expanded season builds upon the remarkable success of DUPR Collegiate Pickleball, which has cemented itself as the largest collegiate pickleball tour in the sport. The inaugural DUPR Collegiate National Championship in 2022 featured 17 schools and 151 players. By 2024, participation had surged to 125 schools and over 4000 players, underscoring the sport's rapid rise in popularity among college athletes. Notably, Utah Tech University clinched the 2024 National Championship title, highlighting the increasing competitiveness of the tournament. 

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This upward trajectory reflects the growing enthusiasm for pickleball on campuses nationwide and sets the stage for an even more dynamic 2025 season.

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"The Collegiate Pickleball Tour represents a historic milestone for the sport at the college level. Over the past few years, we've seen an incredible surge in interest, with thousands of athletes and hundreds of schools joining the movement,” said Jacob Smith, DUPR’s Director of Collegiate Pickleball. “This tour is designed to give collegiate athletes more opportunities to compete at the highest level, showcase their talent on a national stage, and provide crucial funding to support and grow their programs. With the backing of DUPR and the UPA, we are committed to making collegiate pickleball a premier pathway for young athletes to pursue their passion and take the sport to new heights." 

Collegiate Pickleball Tour

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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 Carvana PPA Tour:

Founded in 2019, the Carvana PPA Tour is where pickleball’s top athletes go head-to-head to determine the best male and female players in the world. The Carvana PPA Tour organizes and conducts tournaments at world-class facilities across the country, establishes player rankings, and showcases the world’s best pickleball week in and week out. Inviting amateur players to also compete and “play where the pros play,” the Carvana PPA Tour offers divisions for every age group and skill level. Characterized by a uniquely festive and fun atmosphere, Carvana PPA Tour events deliver unparalleled experiences for fans on-site, including pro player meet-and-greets, clinics, food, beverages, live entertainment, giveaways, games, shopping, and VIP upgrades. For more information, go to www.ppatour.com, and follow us on social: Twitter/X, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, LinkedIn.

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About Major League Pickleball:

Founded in 2021, Major League Pickleball (MLP by Margaritaville) is the preeminent, coed, team-based professional pickleball league, featuring nearly 100 of the best athletes across 22 teams, a unique format, easy to understand scoring, iconic team owners, and the most electric