PPR-Certified Coaches Lead Global Adoption of DUPR Coach, Unlocking Revenue and Driving Growth for Coaches and Clubs

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Wesley Chapel, FL  – The Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR), Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR) and MyJourney Pickleball announced today that PPR will standardize on the Coach-Assigned DUPR Rating Program for its network of over 10,000 PPR-certified coaches. This move empowers PPR-certified coaches to generate DUPR ratings for the 34 million non-rated pickleball players, creating new revenue opportunities for coaches and clubs while driving the growth of the sport.

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“With 95% of the world’s DUPR Coaches being PPR-certified, our coaches are leading the charge in adopting Coach-Assigned DUPRs because it creates immediate value for both coaches and clubs,” said Sarah Ansboury, Managing Director of PPR. “This program provides coaches with two significant revenue streams: first, being featured on The Global Pickleball Coach Map connects them with players worldwide, allowing them to create ratings virtually using the DUPR Coach app. Second, coaches can run DUPR Rating Sessions at their local clubs or courts. With DUPR Coach, we’re not just empowering coaches; we’re setting the global standard for growing pickleball. The formula is simple: PPR + DUPR Coach = ROI for coaches and their clubs.”

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Zach Lee, a PPR-certified DUPR Coach, highlighted the program’s value: “Hosting weekly DUPR Rating Sessions have transformed the experience at my club. Players benefit from coach-assigned ratings, while I generate additional revenue and elevate the quality of open play and leagues. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.”

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Brian Lloyd, PPR-certified DUPR Coach and Chief Pickleball Officer for Dill Dinkers, remarked: “I applaud PPR for setting the industry standard to ensure every player is DUPR-rated by equipping coaches with the essential tools and resources. By empowering coaches to provide accurate DUPR ratings, PPR is enhancing the player experience, fostering stronger competition, and unlocking meaningful income opportunities. Coaches are the backbone of this sport, and this program rewards their dedication with new revenue streams, creating a thriving ecosystem that benefits players, clubs, and the entire pickleball community.”

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Katie Nimitz, President of MyJourney Pickleball, emphasized: “PPR’s decision to standardize the Coach-Assigned DUPR program across their global network of coaches is an important milestone for the pickleball industry. PPR coaches are at the forefront of driving pickleball’s economic growth by generating Coach-Assigned DUPR ratings for millions of players. PPR is ensuring players are accurately rated and matched to the right skill levels—all while creating new revenue streams for coaches and clubs. This decision lays the foundation for pickleball’s continued success, and we’re proud to be working alongside PPR and DUPR to help scale the sport and drive its GDP forward.”

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Tito Machado, CEO of DUPR, stated: “The partnership between PPR and DUPR Coach is a monumental step toward making universal ratings more accessible than ever. With PPR-certified coaches leading the way, we are ensuring that every pickleball player—whether they’re stepping onto the court for the first time or training at an elite level—has a clear starting point and pathway for improvement. This collaboration doesn’t just benefit players; it creates real revenue opportunities for coaches and clubs, helping to grow the sport in a sustainable way. Together, PPR and DUPR are setting the global standard for ratings, competition, and player development.”

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PPR-certified coaches who join the DUPR Coach program receive comprehensive training on the Coach-Assigned DUPR process, along with access to DUPR-approved skills rating tools. These resources enable coaches to efficiently and effectively generate ratings at scale, helping to achieve the goal of getting all 34 million pickleball players DUPR-rated.

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Coaches interested in becoming PPR-certified DUPR Coaches and being featured on the Global Pickleball Coach Map can find more information and sign up here.

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About PPR

PPR is the premier standard in pickleball instructor certification, dedicated to educating, certifying, and supporting pickleball professionals in their mission to grow the 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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About DUPR Coach

DUPR Coach empowers coaches to launch Coach-Assigned DUPRs for the 34 million non-rated pickleball players, powered by MyJourney Pickleball.

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Pickleball continues to soar in popularity. Today, we’re spotlighting the best pickleball players in the world, showcasing the top 5 men and women who dominate the courts based on their DUPR ratings in doubles.

Rankings last updated January 7th, 2025.

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Men's Top 5 Players

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1. Ben Johns

• DUPR Rating: 7.341
  Ben Johns remains the undisputed king of pickleball, excelling in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. His precision, strategy, and unmatched consistency make him the top-rated male pickleball player in the world. Together with his brother, Collin Johns, they have been the top male players in the sport for a long time. 

2. JW Johnson

• DUPR Rating: 7.142
  JW Johnson has earned his spot among the elite with his calm demeanor and sharp, calculated gameplay. Known for his versatility, JW shines in both singles and doubles. Him and his sister, Jorja Johnson, are the only top 10 siblings in the world playing mixed doubles together. Their latest tournament being the PPA Masters in Mission Hills, CA. 

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3. Christian Alshon

• DUPR Rating: 7.072
  Christian Alshon, widely known as “The Tweener King,” is a player to watch this 2025. After a pause due to injury, he has made an impressive comeback, climbing back into the top 10. Alshon’s aggressive playstyle and boundless energy make him a formidable opponent on the court.

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4. Andrei Daescu

• DUPR Rating: 7.037
  Andrei Daescu is renowned for his exceptional court presence and strategic doubles play. As a former tennis player, he brings powerful shots and stellar teamwork to his game. One of his latest achievements was clinching the title at the PPA Daytona alongside his doubles partner, CJ Klinger.

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5. Federico Staksrud

• DUPR Rating: 7.011
  Federico Staksrud is a powerhouse in both singles and doubles. His speed, agility, and mental toughness have propelled him to the top. In 2024, he briefly overtook Ben Johns as the world #1 in singles after a standout performance at the PPA Las Vegas. Staksrud’s steady rise in the rankings is a testament to his dedication and talent.

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Women's Top 5 Players

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1. Anna Leigh Waters

• DUPR Rating: 6.658
  Anna Leigh Waters (ALW) is synonymous with pickleball in America. At just 18 years old, she continues to dominate the sport with her dynamic playstyle, quick reflexes, and relentless drive. As the top-rated female player in both singles and doubles, ALW remains the queen of the court.

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2. Anna Bright

• DUPR Rating: 6.371
  Anna Bright has rapidly climbed the ranks with her fierce competitiveness and versatile gameplay. Excelling in both singles and doubles, she consistently delivers standout performances. Recently, she and Rachel Rohrbacher shone at the 2024 Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships.

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3. Jorja Johnson

• DUPR Rating: 6.246
  Jorja Johnson is one of the sport’s brightest young talents. At 18 years old, she has entered the top-5 world ranking in doubles. Jorja often competes on the pro tours in mixed doubles, together with her brother JW. Her latest achievement is earning 3rd place in Women’s Doubles at the PPA Masters in California, together with Tyra Hurricane Black.

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4. Catherine Parenteau

• DUPR Rating: 6.177
  Catherine Parenteau brings grace and strategy to the game. A former tennis player, she excels in both singles and doubles. Often teaming up with Anna Leigh Waters in doubles, and playing against her in singles the duo has dominated the women’s doubles circuit.

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5. Rachel Rohrbacher

• DUPR Rating: 6.172
  Rachel Rohrbacher has solidified her place among the elite with consistent performances and a keen sense of the game. Her strong doubles play, particularly alongside Anna Bright, makes this pairing a formidable force to watch on the pro circuit.

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These top-rated pickleball players represent the pinnacle of the sport, showcasing unmatched talent, skill, and dedication. Whether you’re a fan or a player, these athletes inspire the pickleball community to strive for greatness. Check out these top players' 2024 DUPR End Of Year Stats!

Still want more? Check out the latest news from the pro tours at MLP’s and PPA’s official websites.

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Vietnam’s pickleball scene just reached a new level with the successful Facolos Champion 2025 tournament, held on January 19th. This event marked Vietnam's first large-scale tournament with all results submitted to DUPR, attracting over 300 players across multiple categories. Organizer Long Hoang Nguyen played a crucial role in bringing this event to life, introducing international standards to Vietnam's rapidly growing pickleball community.

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DUPR’s Role in Shaping Vietnam’s Global Reputation

The adoption of the DUPR system, was one of the defining features of the Facolos Champion 2025. This was a landmark decision for Vietnam’s pickleball community, marking the country’s first fully DUPR integrated event. 

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“Adopting 100% DUPR was a significant milestone for competitive pickleball in Vietnam. DUPR brought transparency, fairness, and professionalism to our tournaments. With DUPR, players can compare their skills with athletes worldwide, driving them to improve,” Nguyen explains.

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Challenges of Organizing a Large-Scale Event

Organizing an event of this size was no small feat, and Nguyen faced numerous challenges along the way. From securing the right venue to managing player registrations and sponsorships, every detail required careful planning. One of the most significant obstacles was integrating the DUPR system.

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“Organizing such a large-scale tournament required meticulous planning,” Nguyen shares. “The most significant challenge was collecting DUPR IDs due to the lack of a Vietnamese platform integrated with the DUPR API. To overcome this, we created a simplified online registration form, provided detailed instructions, and regularly updated information on our communication channels.”

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Fostering a Competitive, Yet Supportive Environment

A core goal of the Facolos Champion 2025 was to create a competitive atmosphere that was also supportive, particularly for newcomers. By offering multiple categories, the tournament allowed participants to compete within their skill levels, ensuring that everyone had a fair chance. 

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Nguyen’s strategy for fostering this balance between competitiveness and camaraderie was evident in the event’s organization. Players from all backgrounds had the opportunity to learn from each other while enjoying the thrill of competition.

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“We aimed to create a healthy competitive environment by designing the tournament with various skill levels, allowing players to choose suitable categories,” Nguyen says. “Collaborating with pickleball clubs and sponsors expanded our reach and enhanced tournament quality.”

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‍Looking to the Future

Vietnam’s pickleball community is rapidly growing, with immense potential for further expansion. Organizer Long Hoang Nguyen notes that, compared to other Southeast Asian countries, the Vietnamese pickleball scene is exceptionally passionate.

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The success of the Facolos Champion 2025 sets a new standard for future pickleball events in Vietnam. Nguyen hopes this tournament will not only inspire future competitions but also attract sponsors and players from around the world.

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Anna Bright and Andrei Daescu claimed The Dink Award's "Upset of the Year" with 26.5% of the vote, a remarkable achievement considering the highly competitive category. Their victory over the dominant Anna Leigh Waters and Ben Johns, who hadn’t lost a match in nearly a year, was one of the most shocking moments of the season. It wasn’t just about the win itself but how Bright and Daescu handled the pressure in one of the toughest finals, making their triumph even more memorable.

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Their ”Upset of the Year” win resonated with fans, who saw it as a refreshing change in a sport often dominated by top teams like Waters and Johns. Bright and Daescu’s upset was more than just a victory over the favorites; it was a moment that captured the excitement and unpredictability of pickleball.

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“The fact that so many people took the time to vote and that we received so much support is incredibly exciting,” Bright said. “What resonated with fans was probably the fact that we were the only team to beat Ben and Anna Leigh in 2024. It was a special moment for everyone, and I think people enjoy seeing a bit of variety in the results. They’re so good, so it made our win that much more meaningful.”

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The Match That Shocked the Pickleball World

When the mixed doubles final kicked off at the PPA Austin Open, it was clear that the match would be no ordinary competition. With both Bright and Daescu feeling calm and collected, they stepped onto the court ready for what would become an unforgettable clash. Despite playing in their first PPA event together, their chemistry, honed over the past year through the Orlando Squeeze at MLP, proved to be a powerful asset.

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“We were staying at the same host’s house in Austin, and we actually drove to the venue together,” Bright explained. “We’d watched some film the night before and were feeling calm going into the match. Andrei said, ‘They’re not going to outcompete us,’ and that really set the tone. I personally find that I play my best against Anna Leigh when I go into matches with a calm, 'whatever happens, happens' mindset.”

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Bright and Daescu would go on to win in three straight games, 11-3, 11-9, 11-3, a feat that seemed improbable against the dominant Waters and Johns. The result was especially remarkable because beating a team like Waters and Johns, who had rarely lost a match in the past year, was an immense challenge. Bright admits that starting strong in each game was critical to securing the win.

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“Beating any team in three games in a final is difficult, but sweeping Ben and Anna Leigh is absolutely insane,” Bright noted. “I definitely owe them a few more sweeps, but I don’t think I’ll get them. The key for us was a strong start in every game. Anna Leigh tends to get hot in game two, so it was essential that we did everything we could to stop that momentum and keep them from running away with it.”

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The wind and difficult conditions during the match added another layer of complexity. However, these challenges seemed to play in Bright and Daescu’s favor, allowing them to stay scrappy and composed while Waters and Johns struggled to adapt.

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“The weather definitely helped us,” Bright admitted. “Windy conditions are often a good opportunity for underdogs, and we definitely handled the adversity better than they did. The most important thing in those conditions is to be scrappy and get the balls in play. We didn’t give up many free points, which really helped us out.”

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A Crucial Turning Point

The match reached a pivotal moment in game two when Bright and Daescu, after trailing 8-4, managed to fight back and win the game. This turn of events seemed to shake Waters and Johns, giving Bright and Daescu the confidence they needed to finish the job in game three.

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“When we won game two and stopped Anna Leigh from getting hot, I thought we had a very good chance,” Bright said. “I felt like they started to crumble a bit in game three, and that’s when we knew we could really take control of the match.”

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Bright and Daescu’s shared competitive spirit and the bond they had built off the court were vital components of their success. Both are known for their no-nonsense approach to competition, and their drive to win is clear.

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“The prior experience definitely helped,” Bright shared. “Andrei and I really like each other, and we compete well together. We have very similar dispositions on the court. We’re both extremely competitive, hate missing shots, and we don’t joke around too much. That focused mentality really worked in our favor.”

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Waters and Johns clearly faced their struggles in the final. Bright also believes their approach to the match played a role in their loss.

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“I think they might have taken us a bit for granted,” Bright said. “They came out a bit casual, and the weather conditions affected them more than they expected. We really took advantage of those circumstances.”

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Bright’s Tennis Background: A Key Factor

Bright’s background in tennis, where she played on the UC Berkeley women’s varsity team and earned a career-high national ranking of #13, gave her a solid foundation in the sport. Her proficiency with a racket and understanding of footwork gave her an edge in pickleball, but she quickly realized there was much more to the game.

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“A tennis background definitely gives you a huge leg up in pickleball,” Bright explained. “The main thing is already having racket skills and footwork down, but there’s still so much to learn about pickleball-specific skills. It’s a different game, but it definitely helped me adjust quickly.”

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Her journey from tennis to pickleball has shaped her into a formidable competitor, and she is now focusing on achieving even more in her pickleball career.

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Looking Ahead: Bright’s Goals for 2025

Looking ahead to 2025, Bright has set her sights on new challenges and goals. She hopes to make a mark in the upcoming MLP season and is particularly focused on growing her mixed doubles and women’s doubles game.

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“I’d love to win this year’s MLP season,” Bright said. “My partner Rachel and I would love to unseat Anna Leigh and Catherine as the consensus number one women’s doubles team. I don’t expect we’ll beat them 100% of the time, but I’d like to see us win more often than not. I also hope to top the mountain and secure more wins against Anna Leigh and Ben in mixed doubles.”

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As Bright continues her rise in the pickleball world, her determination to improve is clear. With more wins in sight, 2025 promises to be another exciting year for this talented athlete.

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Grateful for the Support

Bright expressed her appreciation for the fans who supported her and Daescu throughout their journey to victory. She acknowledged how much their votes meant to her and Daescu, especially in such a competitive field.

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“I’m so grateful to everyone who voted for us! Your support really means a lot,” Bright said.

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It’s clear that the recognition from fans is something Bright deeply values as she continues her journey in pickleball. The connection with her fans remains a significant part of her drive to keep pushing for new achievements.

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Tomorrow marks a groundbreaking moment in the world of pickleball as the first official DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) event inside a prison takes place at the MacDougall-Walker Correctional Institution in Suffield, Connecticut. This historic occasion highlights the adaptability and inclusivity of pickleball, as well as the potential of the sport to inspire hope and transformation in unexpected places. At the forefront of this initiative is Angelo Rossetti, who has dedicated himself to sharing the game’s transformative power.

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The First DUPR Prison Event

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DUPR, the official global pickleball rating system, provides a fair and accurate measure of players’ skill levels. It has been instrumental in uniting the pickleball community by offering a universal standard for competition and progress tracking. By bringing this system into prisons, Rossetti is breaking new ground, creating opportunities for incarcerated individuals to engage with the sport in a meaningful way.

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“Pickleball is more than a game; it’s a way to inspire people and bring them hope,” said Rossetti, a certified pickleball coach.

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During tomorrow’s event, he will document games with pen and paper, following strict prison regulations that prohibit electronic devices. These results will later be entered into a DUPR digital club, preserving the anonymity of players while allowing them to track their progress. This event is a significant milestone in showcasing how pickleball’s universal rating system can bridge gaps and create connections, even within the walls of a correctional facility.

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Bringing Pickleball to Prisons

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A year ago, Rossetti was introduced to Pickleball for the Incarcerated League (PICL), a program founded by Sarah Gerstein, one of his former students who brought PICL to the state of Connecticut. PICL’s mission is to introduce pickleball to incarcerated individuals, providing them with a constructive outlet and a sense of community. Although initially hesitant after a daunting orientation, Rossetti honored his promise to help. His first visit to a correctional facility proved transformative, solidifying his commitment to the program.

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“When I first stepped into a prison for this program, I was intimidated. But that first session was transformative,” Rossetti shared.

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Rossetti now coaches at nearly all of Connecticut’s correctional institutions that can accommodate pickleball. His sessions emphasize more than just gameplay; they instill life lessons, resilience, and the power of controlling one’s attitude and effort. For many inmates, the program offers a rare source of hope and joy.

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From Racket Sports to Pickleball Pioneer

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Rossetti’s journey to this moment began with a lifelong love of racket sports, nurtured by his grandfather, who built a ping-pong table in his basement. Sundays after church were spent playing table tennis with his brother, Ettore, a partnership that would become the cornerstone of his athletic journey. Transitioning to tennis in high school, Angelo played competitively for the University of Connecticut’s Division 1 team.

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“Pickleball clicked for me when I saw how easily different ages and levels could play together,” said Rossetti.

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Pickleball entered his life six years ago, almost serendipitously. After giving tennis lessons to his daughter’s friends, Rossetti introduced them to pickleball in his driveway. The instant connection the young players felt to the sport ignited Rossetti’s curiosity. He recognized pickleball’s unique appeal—its accessibility for players of all ages and skill levels—and decided to shift his focus from tennis to pickleball full-time.

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“I’ve completed every certification out there because I want to be the best for the people I coach,” said Rossetti.

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Rossetti’s commitment to the sport has been extraordinary. This dedication also led to a Guinness World Record: on August 17, 2024, Rossetti and Ettore completed 10,532 consecutive volleys without a miss, raising funds for Save the Children. This accomplishment, alongside his earlier tennis world records, highlights the brothers’ philosophy of blending sport with purpose.

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A Family Bond Rooted in Sport

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Angelo’s bond with Ettore has been instrumental in his journey. The duo’s approach to sports transcends competition. They’ve always embraced the “infinite game”—playing for joy, improvement, and connection rather than simply to win. Their shared experiences, from childhood table tennis matches to world record pursuits, have fostered a relationship that Rossetti describes as deeper than typical sibling ties.

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“He’s my best friend, my confidant, my mentor,” Rossetti said, reflecting on his relationship with Ettore.

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Their connection has fueled many of their shared milestones, including their Guinness World Records and charity work. Ettore's unwavering support and shared love for racket sports have been a constant source of strength and motivation for Angelo. Together, they continue to push the boundaries of what can be achieved through sport, both on and off the court.

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For Angelo, having Ettore by his side also means having someone to hold him accountable and challenge him to be better. It’s a relationship built on trust, mutual respect, and the joy of shared successes, making their journey even more meaningful.

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Inspiring Through EAGLES and Effort

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Rossetti’s coaching philosophy is rooted in his acronym “EAGLES,” which stands for Effort, Attitude, Gratitude, Learning, Enjoyment, and Sportsmanship. He shares this mantra with inmates to encourage them to focus on controllable aspects of life and to play with freedom and joy. At one correctional facility, his teachings left such an impact that inmates painted a mural of two eagles alongside the acronym, symbolizing hope and inspiration.

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“Focus on your EAGLES: Effort, Attitude, Gratitude, Learning, Enjoyment, and Sportsmanship,” said Rossetti.

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The mural serves as a lasting testament to the impact Rossetti’s words and actions have had on the inmates. For many, the concept of EAGLES becomes more than just an acronym—it’s a framework for rebuilding their lives, even within the constraints of incarceration. It reminds them of their capacity to grow, adapt, and find joy in the small victories.

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This philosophy also reflects Rossetti’s broader mission: to teach life lessons through pickleball. Whether on the court or in life, focusing on controllable factors helps players—and people—find peace and purpose despite challenges.

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Changing Lives with Pickleball

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While many of the inmates Rossetti coaches may never be released, his efforts are making a tangible difference. One standout player, who is set to reenter society, represents the potential for programs like PICL to bridge the gap between incarceration and reintegration. Rossetti envisions a future where more inmates can use their pickleball skills to connect with communities outside prison walls.

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“This is about more than pickleball—it’s about changing lives,” said Rossetti.

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Tomorrow’s DUPR event marks a significant step forward. It not only highlights the adaptability and inclusivity of pickleball but also demonstrates how a universal rating system can foster connections in the most unexpected places. As Rossetti continues his work, his story serves as a powerful reminder of pickleball’s potential to change lives, one rally at a time.

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Photo Credit: Tyler Russell/Connecticut Public

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PodPlay is excited to announce the launch of DUPR Challenge Matches for clubs with PodPlay Pro Monitors. Just choose “Submit Results” at the beginning of a match and results are automatically reported to DUPR at the end of the match. 

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Players no longer need to login to DUPR, find the other players, enter scores, and wait for confirmations. All those steps are condensed into a single press of a button at the beginning of the match. For clubs that choose to default to Submit Results for a court or event, the single button press is eliminated, and what is left is totally frictionless reporting to DUPR. 

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Why it Matters

DUPR stands for Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating. Putting Universal in the name turned out to be prescient, as DUPR has become the universal standard for pickleball ratings. 

• >1 million players
• >5 million matches records
• >5,000 pickleball clubs and facilities
• 158 countries represented

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DUPR is a rating system designed to provide accurate and dynamic player ratings. Unlike traditional static rating systems, DUPR's algorithm continuously adjusts ratings based on match results, ensuring that ratings reflect current skill levels. 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 promotes fair and balanced gameplay by accurately assessing player skill levels. Accurate and accessible ratings help drive:

• Skill Development. Players can track their progress and identify areas for improvement through their DUPR ratings.
• Precise Programming. DUPR allows clubs to create programming for specific skill levels and require a DUPR rating to participate, eliminating the issue of matching players with very different skill levels. 
• Community Engagement. DUPR fosters a vibrant pickleball community by providing a platform for players to connect, compete, and grow together.

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DUPR has achieved broad adoption across the pickleball community. The biggest barrier to greater adoption and more games being reported is the friction currently involved in submitting scores. PodPlay’s DUPR Challenge Match feature eliminates all of that friction.

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Eliminating Friction is a Core PodPlay Design Principle

In Your App is Your Front Door, we wrote about PodPlay’s obsession with creating the kind of customer experience for end users that is so good they want to tell others about it. An insanely great technology experience is one that allows customers to get what they want with as little work as possible. When it comes to the user experience, less is often more. Some of the areas where PodPlay has made dramatic improvements over legacy systems are:

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• Onboarding. Customers are able to browse court availability, programming, and more before creating a customer account. We don’t make customers fill out a long form and give you their payment info before they know what you offer. Create too much friction at onboarding and customers may give up before they even get started.
• Quick Replays. Customers love capturing magic moments and sharing them with their network. They DO NOT love doing any work to get those replays. Make them set up a camera, scan a QR Code, or create a login on a separate system to get their highlights and usage plummets. PodPlay’s game-changing replay functionality is designed to allow players to capture great moments without taking them out of the flow of their game. 
• Coach Connect. Using PodPlay’s Coach Connect feature, customers are able to discover, coordinate and pay coaches with a couple of clicks. No e-mails, no texts, no need for Venmo after the lesson. By eliminating friction, the feature drives large increases in coaching activity. 

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With DUPR Challenge Matches, we can add reporting scores to DUPR to the list of functions where PodPlay has collapsed a multi-step process into a single step. 

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The Pickleball Tournament of the Future

PodPlay does not yet offer tournament and league management, but these are areas we plan to tackle in 2025. By combining tournament and league management with PodPlay Scoreboards and the DUPR Challenge Match feature, it is not hard to imagine a massive reduction in the need for tournament and league staffing. Stay tuned for future developments!

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The PodPlay Advantage

PodPlay gives venue operators all the tools they need to digitally manage a physical space - integrating video replays, automated scoreboards, and autonomous functionality with a reservation engine, event management, coach connect, membership module, and payments. 

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Originally built to power PingPod, the network of futuristic autonomous ping pong clubs, PodPlay is now being used to manage venues across pickleball, padel, ping pong, golf simulators, racing simulators, soccer and pool, with more experience verticals to come in the future.

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If you’re interested in learning more, request a demo.

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If you're new to pickleball, one of the first questions you might ask is, what does a pickleball look like? The pickleballs appearance is one of the most distinctive aspects of the sport. Let’s break down the pickleballs design, shape, texture, and other important features to give you a better idea of what makes this ball so unique.

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Pickleballs Shape and Size

The most obvious feature of a pickleball is its shape. It is round, like most balls, but it’s design sets it apart. Pickleballs typically measure between 2.87 and 2.97 inches in diameter, making them slightly smaller than a tennis ball but still large enough to handle comfortably. The pickleball ball sizes are standardized for most play, whether you're on an indoor or outdoor court.

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Pickleballs Material and Texture

When you look at a pickleball up close, you'll notice it’s made of a durable plastic material. Unlike a traditional tennis ball that’s covered in felt, the pickleballs material is hollow and solid plastic, with holes strategically placed around the surface. This perforation affects its texture, creating a smooth yet slightly dimpled surface. The texture is crucial because it helps the ball glide smoothly through the air and bounce predictably on the court. The holes in the design also reduce the ball’s bounce compared to other sports balls, creating a more controlled game.

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Pickleballs Colors

As for the pickleballs’ colors, they are often quite bright and vibrant. Most commonly, outdoor pickleballs are yellow, making them easy to see under the sun. However, you can also find pickleballs in other bold colors, such as orange, green, pink or even white. These pickleball colors are designed to enhance visibility, which is essential for fast-paced games.

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Pickleballs Features

What truly sets the pickleball design apart is its combination of features that make it perfect for the game. Pickleballs features include the hole pattern—typically 26-40 holes depending on whether the ball is designed for indoor or outdoor use. The outdoor balls usually have more holes to help reduce wind interference, while indoor balls tend to have fewer holes, resulting in a slightly different flight and bounce.

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Pickleball Ball Sizes for Different Environments

There’s a subtle difference in pickleball ball sizes depending on the type of court you're playing on. Indoor pickleballs are generally lighter and have fewer holes, making them better suited for the calmer environment of indoor courts. Outdoor pickleballs, on the other hand, are heavier and have more holes to better resist wind. The slight differences in pickleball ball sizes ensure that the game plays fairly no matter the conditions.

Pickleball has taken the world, and whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, there’s no denying its rapid growth. Indoor pickleball has become a popular choice, providing year-round play regardless of the weather. Whether you're practicing for your next match or diving into competitive indoor pickleball tournaments, understanding the aspects of indoor play can take your game to the next level. In this guide, we’ll cover the essential factors that make indoor pickleball exciting, from the rules to the equipment to the strategies.

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Indoor Pickleball Courts: Surfaces and Weather-Proof Play

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One of the main differences between indoor and outdoor pickleball is the court surface. Indoor pickleball courts are typically made from smooth, hard surfaces like wood or specialized sports flooring, which can create faster ball movement compared to the more textured outdoor courts. Indoor pickleball courts measure 20 feet wide by 44 feet long, just like outdoor courts, but the environment plays a key role in shaping the dynamics of the game.

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The lack of wind indoors means the ball doesn’t get pushed around by the elements, which leads to more consistent play. However, without wind or weather disruptions, players need to rely on precision, good footwork, and sharp strategies to win.

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Indoor Pickleball Equipment: What You Need

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For indoor pickleball, the equipment is slightly different from outdoor play, primarily when it comes to the ball and paddle.

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Indoor Pickleball Balls: Indoor pickleballs are made of a lighter plastic and feature fewer holes than their outdoor counterparts, which reduces air resistance. These balls tend to be softer and bounce higher, making them perfect for the controlled indoor environment. Choose balls designed specifically for indoor play to ensure a better, more consistent experience.

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Indoor Pickleball Paddles: The type of paddle you use plays a crucial role in your performance. While outdoor paddles are often designed for more durability, indoor pickleball paddles can be slightly lighter, providing better control for fast, precise movements. There are a variety of indoor pickleball paddle types to choose from, including composite, wood, and graphite paddles. Each type offers a different balance of power and control, so finding the right one for your playstyle can significantly impact your game.

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Indoor Pickleball Strategies: Master the Court

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Indoor pickleball offers unique strategic opportunities. The faster pace and controlled environment allow players to focus on skillful shot placement and consistent rallies. Here are a few key strategies to keep in mind:

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• Shorter, more controlled shots: Since the ball bounces higher on indoor courts, you’ll want to master softer, more controlled shots like drop shots and dinks.‍
• Movement and positioning: With the lack of wind, players can rely more on precise footwork and strategic positioning. Always anticipate the ball’s trajectory and be ready to move quickly.

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Indoor Pickleball Drills: Practice Makes Perfect

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Indoor pickleball drills are key to improving your skills in this controlled environment. Here are a few drills designed specifically for indoor play:

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1. Target Practice: Set up targets on different spots of the court, like the corners or the back of the baseline, and practice hitting them with your forehand and backhand.
2. Dink and Volley Drills: Work on your dinks and volleys by pairing up with a partner. Stand at the net and focus on precise shots without powering the ball too much.‍
3. Serve and Return Practice: Indoors, you can perfect your serve and return, especially since there’s no wind interference. Focus on consistency and placement during these drills.

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Indoor Pickleball Tournaments: Compete and Improve

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Indoor pickleball tournaments have become a major aspect of the sport's growth. These events often take place in specialized indoor pickleball facilities. 

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As you start competing in indoor tournaments, it's important to have a reliable tool to track your progress and improvement. This is where DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) comes in. DUPR offers an accurate, standardized rating system that allows players of all skill levels to measure their performance and progress over time. Whether you're new to indoor pickleball tournaments or a seasoned competitor, DUPR helps ensure that your matches are competitive, fair, and reflective of your true skill level.

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Indoor Pickleball Leagues: Community and Competition

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Joining an indoor pickleball league is an excellent way to build your skills while enjoying the pickleball community. Leagues are offered at various skill levels, so no matter your experience, you can find a group that suits your competitive drive. Indoor pickleball leagues tend to be very structured, often with regular matchups and season-long play. These leagues provide great opportunities for growth, as they allow players to gain valuable experience in real-world competitive environments.

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Indoor Pickleball Facilities: Where to Play

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Finding the right indoor pickleball facility can make all the difference in your experience. Look for facilities that offer high-quality courts, proper net height, and good lighting. Many sports complexes and recreation centers are now adding indoor pickleball courts to their offerings, creating more opportunities to play year-round. Some facilities even host leagues, tournaments, and social events, providing a great way to connect with other players.

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Conclusion

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Indoor pickleball is a great way to enjoy the sport regardless of the weather. From the specialized indoor pickleball equipment, including paddles and balls, to the fast-paced strategies and precision required on indoor courts, there’s plenty to learn and enjoy. Whether you’re practicing your skills with drills, competing in indoor pickleball tournaments, or joining a league, the indoor environment offers endless opportunities for fun, growth, and competition.

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And with DUPR, you can easily track your progress and elevate your game. Whether you're playing casually or aiming for a competitive indoor pickleball tournament, DUPR’s rating system ensures that your performance is always measured accurately. So, find your local indoor pickleball facility, grab your paddle, and get started today!