Search results

This year’s National Junior Pickleball (NJP) Championship Cup in Houston set a new benchmark in junior pickleball, bringing together young players from 18 states, as far as Alaska and Canada, to compete, connect, and celebrate the sport. 

The energy was electric, with families, friends, and players filling the venue with their enthusiasm and team spirit. Founder of National Junior Pickleball (NJP), Courtney Loughridge shares her experience with us: "The energy and enthusiasm from players and families, along with the new friendships formed, exceeded every expectation," she shares, “From clinics to clinics to championship matches, each day was packed with excitement.”

The event kicked off with an engaging evening of clinics, which provided juniors with a chance to connect and break the ice before diving into three days of intense competition. The weekend unfolded with Singles, Doubles, and Team events, all set within a positive and competitive atmosphere. It was clear that NJP’s mission of fostering a community-centered tournament was alive and well.

Standout Performances and Memorable Moments

"Our tournament was filled with incredible moments—from ATPs and hand battles to thrilling rallies, including a singles game that ended with a nail-biting 27-25 score," noted Courtney. The young athletes not only brought competitive spirit but also showcased remarkable sportsmanship and camaraderie—a hallmark of NJP events.

Among the highlights were the Gold Medal Champions in each Advanced age division. These players proudly hoisted the coveted golden Championship Cup and donned the exclusive Championship Cup jackets—a unique twist on the usual medal awards. Three players were also honored with Sportsmanship Awards, a tribute to their exceptional spirit, resilience, and kindness on and off the court.

The Rise of Junior Pickleball

This year has marked explosive growth in junior pickleball. NJP witnessed a surge in young beginners joining tournaments and a significant increase in girls' participation across all age divisions. "We were thrilled to see an increase in girls' participation, especially in the 12U age group," shared Courtney. Offering divisions such as Girls Singles Advanced, Intermediate, and Beginner in this age group is a promising sign that young girls are embracing the sport with enthusiasm.

‍

How DUPR Transformed the Tournament Experience

The DUPR rating system has been a game-changer for NJP, helping the organizers place players in appropriate skill divisions based on existing ratings and allowing newcomers to establish theirs. For many, NJP was their first competitive experience, and having their tournament results entered into DUPR has given players a clear sense of their skill level. This transparency and structure have enhanced the tournament experience for both beginner and intermediate players, who now have a tangible way to track their progress.

Looking Ahead: The Future of NJP and Junior Pickleball

NJP has big plans for the coming year, with a focus on expanding to new regions and increasing opportunities for young players to compete and connect. 

"Our goal is to reach more young players and give them accessible pathways to competitive play, regardless of their location or skill level," the team shared. NJP’s vision is to establish junior pickleball as a go-to sport for young athletes, from beginners to those aspiring to compete at elite levels. 

As NJP Founder Courtney expressed. "Building a community where juniors and their families feel they truly belong is something I’m deeply passionate about."

In Houston, the NJP Championship Cup captured the essence of what junior pickleball is all about: community, competition, and joy. This year’s tournament will be remembered as a milestone, not only for the incredible performances and surprises but for the friendships and memories forged along the way. 

The future of junior pickleball looks bright, and we can’t wait to see what next year holds!

‍

Next stop: The Western Regional in California! Find more info HERE

With 180 players, the Virginia Beach Super Regional was the 3rd largest tournament in DUPR Collegiate Pickleball history, only behind the Georgia Super Regional (190) and 2023 Nationals (360). 17 schools contributed to the 180 players, with 13 of the schools in search of a bid to the 2024 Collegiate National Championship. This was the first collaboration event between MLP and DUPR Collegiate Pickleball, in order to showcase collegiate pickleball as a path to pro. The DUPR Collegiate National Championship on November 1st-3rd will also be a collaboration event with MLP.

‍

In front of a lively audience, UVA secured their first Super Regional championship by beating UNC 3-1 in the finals. The last time these two teams met in the finals of a tournament was last year’s National Championship, when UVA beat UNC 3-2 in a dreambreaker. In 2024, both of these teams are looking to new players to keep themselves as championship-caliber teams. With David Bieger and Lauralei Singsank graduating from UVA, and Hunter Boyd, Collin Shick, and Caitlin Lewis no longer on the UNC pickleball team, both teams have to replace crucial pieces. Along with JMU and UConn, both UVA and UNC already had secured bids to Nationals before this tournament. 

‍

‍

NC State, UNCC, Duke, and Liberty all gained a bid through their play at the Virginia Beach Super Regional. NC State advanced to the semifinals, UNCC made it to the quarterfinals, and both Duke and Liberty won their Battle of the Bid showdowns against Randolph-Macon and High Point, respectively. Along with High Point, this was the first tournament appearance for Rutgers. In the challenger bracket, Samuel Pan and Seth Penniston from NC State won Men’s Doubles Group A, Aryan Mozar and Chase Harmer from JMU won Men’s Doubles Group B, Joshua Bridges and Caroline Messier from JMU won the Mixed/Women’s Doubles bracket. 

‍

A special thanks goes to our DUPR Collegiate Pickleball partners: JOOLA, HEAD, GAMMA, Rally Republic, Osaka, No Apologies Hydration, Erne, Pickleball Superstore, and Total Pickleball. Another thanks goes to Pickleball Virginia Beach in Virginia Beach, VA for hosting this tournament!

‍

Looking to play pickleball but struggling to find courts near you? Finding a convenient spot to play can be challenging, but with some helpful tips and the right resources, it’s easier than ever to locate courts and meet other players in your area. Whether you’re searching for an indoor pickleball facility or an outdoor court, we've got you covered.

Here are the top ways to find local pickleball courts, meet players, and take your game to the next level. Let's dive in!

‍

1. Use Pickleball Apps and Directories

Apps and online directories are among the easiest ways to find nearby pickleball courts. They not only provide detailed court information but also often include community features to connect with other players and join local events.

‍

DUPR – Your Pickleball Play Partner

DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) is a free app that helps you connect with other players, join local events and leagues and track your progress. Simply download the DUPR app on iOS and Android devices, create a free account, and discover courts nearby.

‍

Pickleball Play Solutions

Pickleballtournaments.com is another excellent resource, offering comprehensive court information, local club listings, and upcoming pickleball events. It’s a go-to for finding high-quality courts and organizing games with other enthusiasts.

‍

2. Leverage Social Media

Social platforms like Facebook and Meetup are great for finding nearby pickleball communities and learning about courts that may not appear in formal directories.

• Facebook Groups: Search for “pickleball” along with your city’s name on Facebook. Many areas have dedicated pickleball groups that provide information about local events, casual games, and court availability. Some of the biggest pickleball groups are Pickleball Forum, The Kitchen Pickleball, and Official Minor League Pickleball.
• Meetup: Meetup is perfect for organizing games and finding like-minded players. You can join local pickleball meetups to attend scheduled games or tournaments.
• Reddit: r/pickleball always has interesting discussions and hot tips!

Joining these online communities is a fantastic way to meet players, exchange tips, and get the latest updates on new courts in your area.

‍

3. Explore Local Pickleball Clubs and Leagues

Many cities have local pickleball clubs and leagues that organize regular games, events, and clinics. Participating in club events not only improves your skills but also introduces you to a network of players who share your passion.

You can search for playing opportunities on pickleball.com by creating a free user account and connecting your DUPR rating to your pickleball.com account. Many clubs are affiliated with DUPR and provide access to leagues and organized events, which often cater to players of various skill levels.

‍

4. Community Centers and Sports Facilities

Community centers, YMCA branches, and sports facilities are popular spots for pickleball. Many now feature indoor and outdoor courts and host pickleball events regularly.

• Community Centers: Call your local center or check their website to see if they offer pickleball. Many centers offer public court access and sometimes hold lessons, leagues, and social games.
• YMCA Locations: Many YMCA facilities have dedicated pickleball courts and organize weekly games. They also offer clinics and other pickleball events, making them a fantastic choice for beginner and advanced players alike.

‍

5. Schools and Universities

Some schools and universities open their courts to the public during non-school hours. These locations may have both indoor and outdoor pickleball courts, and access can often be arranged through the school’s athletic department or community outreach office.

Contacting these institutions can provide access to well-maintained facilities and additional playing opportunities, especially during off-peak hours or summer months.

‍

6. Set Up Your Own Pickleball Court

If you’re still having trouble finding a court nearby, consider creating your own at home. With some basic equipment like a portable net and paddles, you can set up a temporary court in a driveway or backyard. DUPR offers guidelines for setting up regulation-size courts if you’re looking to create a space that meets official standards.

‍

With resources like the DUPR app and Pickleball Play Solutions, finding “pickleball near me” has never been easier. Download the DUPR app today on iOS and Android devices to discover nearby courts and events, connect with other players, and start enjoying all the benefits of this fast-growing sport!

Pickleball players know that the right equipment can make a huge difference on the court. The type of pickleball you choose can impact your game, whether you’re playing indoors or outdoors. These pickleballs are designed for different conditions, and understanding their characteristics can enhance your performance.

‍

Pickleballs are specialized plastic balls with a lightweight construction and perforated design that help control flight and bounce, making them suitable for various play environments. Let’s explore what sets these two types of pickleballs apart and how they impact your performance.

‍

Pickleballs guidelines

These parameters ensure consistency and quality:

• Must be 2.87-2.97 inches in diameter
• Must weigh between 0.78 and 0.935 ounces 
• Must have a bounce of 30-34 inches when dropped from a height of 78 inches
• A minimum of 26 and a maximum of 40 holes
• Uniform color and untextured surface

Based on these guidelines, pickleball companies have made specific design adjustments for both indoor and outdoor play.

‍

Indoor Pickleballs

The softer material and reduced bounce of indoor pickleballs make them ideal for controlled environments. Players can expect more predictable bounces and slower speeds, which allow for longer rallies and strategic play.

Features:

• Material: Made from a softer plastic, providing a different feel during play
• Weight: Typically around 0.8 ounces (22.7 grams)
• Holes: Usually have 26 holes, allowing for better airflow and reduced wind interference
• Bounce: Lower bounce compared to outdoor versions, promoting more controlled gameplay 

‍

Outdoor Pickleballs

The durability and speed of outdoor pickleballs make them suitable for use on various surfaces, including concrete and asphalt. Players often experience a faster game, which encourages aggressive play and quick reflexes.

Features:

• Material: Made from harder plastic, ensuring durability and resistance to wear from harsh conditions
• Weight: Like indoor balls, they weigh around 0.8 ounces (22.7 grams), but their construction affects performance
• Holes: Typically, have around 40 holes, minimizing wind impact and allowing for greater speed and trajectory
• Bounce: Generally, have a higher bounce, leading to faster-paced games

‍

Foam Pickleballs

Foam pickleballs are a great option for beginners and casual play, offering a softer alternative to standard plastic balls. While they are not typically used in official competitions, they serve as training tools and help introduce new players to the game.

• Material: Made from soft, lightweight foam that is less likely to cause injury risk, making them suitable for younger players and recreational use
• Weight: Typically, lighter than standard balls, weighing about 0.5 to 0.6 ounces
• Holes: Often have fewer or no holes, affecting flight and handling.
• Bounce: Foam balls have a lower bounce, making them easier to control for beginners
• Noise reduction: Designed to be quieter during play, ideal for indoor environments or residential areas.

‍

Whether you’re playing on an indoor or outdoor court, choosing the right type of pickleball is crucial for enhancing your experience. Understanding the differences between indoor and outdoor pickleballs can help you select the right ball for your game.

‍

The next time you step onto the court, consider which pickleball suits your environment best, and enjoy the game!

Pickleball is a fun, fast-paced sport that is easy to learn, but understanding the rules is essential to playing successfully. Knowing the official pickleball rules will help you enjoy the game and compete at your best, whether you're playing singles or doubles, indoors or outdoors. In this post, we'll cover the basic pickleball rules, the differences between singles and doubles play, and highlight important concepts like pickleball scoring rules and pickleball kitchen rules.

‍

Basic Pickleball Rules

Pickleball is played on a 20x44-foot court with a net in the middle. The game begins with a serve, where the server hits the ball underhand and diagonally across the net to the opponent’s service area. The ball must clear the non-volley zone (commonly called the kitchen) and land in the opponent’s diagonal service box.

• Serving: The serve must be underhand, and the ball must be struck below the waist. The server must be positioned behind the baseline and serve the ball diagonally. Only one serve attempt is allowed.
• Double Bounce Rule: After the serve, the ball must bounce once on each side of the net before either team can begin volleying (hitting the ball in the air without letting it bounce). This ensures a more controlled start to each rally.
• Faults: A fault occurs when a player fails to return the ball, hits the ball out of bounds, or violates other key rules like stepping into the kitchen while volleying (more on that later).

‍

Official Pickleball Rules for Singles and Doubles

While the pickleball rules singles and pickleball rules doubles share many similarities, there are some key differences:

• Singles Play: In singles pickleball, each player is responsible for covering the entire court. The serving player switches sides after every point. For example, if you serve from the right side and win the point, your next serve will come from the left side. Scoring in singles is simpler, as there is no need to alternate service between partners.
• Doubles Play: In doubles pickleball, each player has a partner, and only the serving team can score points. After the first serve of the game, both partners have a chance to serve before the serve is turned over to the opponents (this is called "side-out"). The server starts on the right side of the court and alternates between sides after each point.

‍

Pickleball Scoring Rules

Pickleball uses a rally scoring system. In pickleball doubles, only the serving team can score a point, while in pickleball singles, the server scores when they win the rally. A game is typically played to 11 points, and a team must win by two points. Tournaments may sometimes require games to be played to 15 or 21 points, with the same win-by-two rule.

In doubles, each partner gets a chance to serve before the serve goes to the opposing team. The exception is at the start of the game when only one partner on the initial serving team serves before the serve changes sides.

‍

Pickleball Kitchen Rules

The kitchen, also known as the non-volley zone, is a 7-foot area on both sides of the net. Pickleball kitchen rules are crucial to understand, as they prevent players from dominating at the net by volleying (hitting the ball in the air) too close to the net.

• Players cannot volley the ball while standing in or making contact with the kitchen.
• It’s also a fault if your momentum carries you into the kitchen after volleying.
• However, players are allowed to enter the kitchen to hit a ball that has bounced, provided they exit before the next volley.

These kitchen rules help keep the game fair and balanced, encouraging strategy and finesse over power and domination at the net.

‍

Conclusion

Understanding official pickleball rules is key to playing well and enjoying the game, whether you're a beginner or an experienced player. From pickleball rules singles and doubles to the nuances of the pickleball kitchen rules, knowing the ins and outs of this sport ensures a fair and fun experience for everyone involved. With clear pickleball scoring rules, anyone can quickly pick up the game and compete in no time. So, grab a paddle, head to the court, and start playing pickleball!

Pickleball is a dynamic sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, and it has quickly become one of the most popular activities across the U.S. Played on a court with a low net, players use paddles to hit a perforated plastic ball back and forth. The game can be played as singles or doubles, making it versatile and suitable for all ages and skill levels. It’s easy to learn, which makes it accessible for newcomers, yet competitive enough for seasoned athletes.

‍

Pickleball Explained

Pickleball’s simplicity is part of its charm. The smaller court size and slower ball speed make it less physically demanding than tennis, while still providing enough challenge to engage players. Whether you’re playing indoors or outdoors, the game’s pace can be adjusted to match the setting, adding to its flexibility. Indoor pickleball is typically played on gym floors, while outdoor pickleball is usually on tennis or pickleball courts, where players contend with weather elements, adding to the fun.

‍

The Role of DUPR

An exciting aspect of the pickleball sport is the DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) system. DUPR helps players assess their skill levels by analyzing match results and performance, offering an accurate rating that ensures fair competition. Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced player, DUPR makes it easy to find suitable opponents, fueling the competitive aspect of the game.

‍

Why Is Pickleball Called Pickleball?

A common question many have is, "Why is pickleball called pickleball?" The origin story is fun and fitting for such a playful sport. Legend has it that the game was named after the Pritchards’ dog, Pickles, who used to chase after the ball during games. Another theory suggests the name came from “pickle boat,” a rowing term referring to a crew made up of leftover rowers from different teams, which reflects pickleball’s mix of various sports.

‍

Celebrity Appeal and Global Expansion

Pickleball’s reach extends beyond casual backyard games, with celebrities like Shaquille O'Neal and Barack Obama picking up paddles, adding to its widespread appeal. As the sport grows, so does its player base, with millions now playing worldwide. The sport is also gaining traction globally, from Canada to Europe, Asia, and beyond.

‍

A Sport for Everyone

Pickleball’s blend of fun, fitness, and social engagement makes it appealing to a wide audience. Whether you’re playing indoors to escape the elements or enjoying outdoor pickleball under the sun, this versatile sport offers something for everyone. Thanks to DUPR and its global rise, pickleball is not just a game—it’s a community.

‍

To start your own pickleball journey and track your progress, explore more about DUPR and pickleball events at www.dupr.com.

Pickleball has exploded in popularity in recent years, drawing players of all ages to its courts. But where did this fast-growing sport come from, and how did it get its unique name? Let’s take a journey through the history of pickleball, exploring its origin, the pickleball name origin, and the story behind who invented pickleball.

‍

The Origin of Pickleball

The origin of pickleball dates back to the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, when three friends—Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum—came together to create a game to entertain their families. On a lazy afternoon, the group wanted to play badminton, but they couldn’t find a full set of equipment. Rather than giving up, they improvised. Using a wiffle ball, some ping-pong paddles, and a badminton net set lower to the ground, they unknowingly created what would soon become the sport of pickleball.

What started as a simple backyard game for family fun quickly became something more. As the rules evolved, Pritchard, Bell, and McCallum realized they had created a new game that blended elements of tennis, badminton, and ping-pong, offering a unique combination of strategy and athleticism that appealed to players of all skill levels.

‍

Who Invented Pickleball?

So, who invented pickleball? While Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum were the driving forces behind the creation of the game, it’s often Pritchard, a U.S. Congressman, who gets the most recognition for the invention. The three friends continued to refine the game, establishing the first official rules and spreading the word to their friends and neighbors.

The collaborative effort of these three men led to pickleball’s rapid growth, and by the late 1960s, pickleball had moved beyond Bainbridge Island, becoming popular in schools, parks, and community centers across the United States.

‍

The Pickleball Name Origin

One of the most frequently asked questions about the sport is: How did pickleball get its name? The pickleball name origin has two main stories. According to Joel Pritchard’s wife, Joan, the game reminded her of a “pickle boat,” a term in crew racing for a boat made up of leftover rowers from different teams. Since pickleball is a mix of different sports, the name seemed fitting.

However, another story claims that the game was named after the Pritchards’ dog, Pickles, who enjoyed chasing after the ball during their games. While both stories are charming, the name “pickleball” stuck and has been embraced by players around the world, adding to the sport’s playful and accessible image.

‍

The Growth of Pickleball

From its humble beginnings in a backyard on Bainbridge Island, pickleball has grown into a global phenomenon. It’s now played by millions of people across the United States and beyond. With its easy-to-learn rules, fast-paced action, and welcoming community, pickleball attracts players of all ages, from young kids to active retirees.

In recent years, the sport has seen exponential growth, with dedicated courts popping up in communities and schools, professional tournaments being televised, and major brands investing in pickleball gear. What began as a way to pass the time on a summer day has turned into one of the most accessible and beloved sports around.

‍

A Game That Connects Us All

What began as a fun backyard game invented by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum has evolved into a sport that brings people together worldwide. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a newcomer, take a moment to appreciate the rich story behind this growing game the next time you step onto the court.

We have big changes coming to the 2025 collegiate pickleball season! Each change has been made with the goal to offer more opportunities to compete across the country and further position pickleball as the next collegiate sport. Read more below to see what’s in store for next year!

‍‍

Partnership with UPA

DUPR Collegiate Pickleball has partnered with the UPA to bring collegiate pickleball to an even wider audience. We will be working together to have collegiate pickleball at more PPA & MLP tour stops in 2025, as well as establishing a path to pro for top collegiate players. 

‍

2025 Collegiate National Championship

We have heard feedback about the mismatch of having the Collegiate National Championship (CNC or Nationals) in the fall semester, while the end of the school comes in the spring semester for most students. That changes in 2025! April 11th-13th, 2025 (location TBD) will be the 4th annual Collegiate National Championship. Going forward, CNC will always fall on the 2nd Saturday in April, so you can start planning ahead now!

‍

With Nationals moving to April, the 2025 spring semester will be one entire collegiate season. The next season after that will be the 2025 fall semester to the 2026 spring semester, which follows the school year. With 2025 being a shorter season, we will be giving out 24 bids at the 2024 Collegiate National Championship this fall: Every school that makes the round of 16, plus the winners of the top 8 bowl games (bowl games are matches played on Sunday by eliminated schools). The 40 other bids will be given out at Super Regionals, PPA/MLP events, and Campus Regionals along with some wildcard bids. 

‍

2025 Super Regionals

‍

• Georgia Super Regional - February 1st-2nd
• Pickle & Social - Buford, GA

‍

• Ohio Super Regional - February 8th-9th
• Paddle Taps - Worthington, OH

‍

• New Jersey Super Regional - March 1st-2nd
• Robbinsville Pickle House - Robbinsville Twp, NJ

‍

• Arizona Super Regional - March 8th-9th
• The Picklr - Scottsdale, AZ

‍

Each Super Regional will be giving out 4 bids to the 2025 Nationals, and $6000 in scholarship money. 

‍

2025 Campus Regionals

Many successful Campus Regionals have been run in 2024, and we plan on keeping that going in 2025! Each Campus Regional will continue to give out 1 bid to Nationals, and will still be run by schools and facilities that want to be a part of the collegiate pathway to Nationals. For anyone interested in running a campus regional, here is the link to all of the information. 

‍

2025 Dual Matches

Dual matches are foundational in taking collegiate pickleball to new heights, and they will be a focus in 2025. Our dual match format is designed both to mirror our tournament rules, as well as allow for flexibility for teams of all sizes to compete. Here is the link explaining the dual match format. 

‍

We’re excited for 2025, and we look forward to seeing your school represented at an event! For any questions, send us an email at college@mydupr.com.

For more information, please visit https://www.dupr.com/collegiate

‍