Dual Matches Redesign

After observing dual matches in 2024, we’ve made some edits to the dual match format to better accommodate team sizes and schedules! Regularly scheduled head to head games are the foundation of nearly every sports league, so it’s something we want to implement as well. All dual matches will be recorded on our collegiate website, including a standings section. 

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Dual Match Presentation, Rules, and Results

View the following links to see in more detail the dual match format presentation, rules, and results:

• Dual match format presentation
• Dual match rules
• Dual match results

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Bids

For the 2025 season, the top 2 teams with the most dual match wins will get a bid to nationals. Ties will be broken by overall dual match performance, including match/game/point/win %. Dual Matches played on or before March 30th, 2025 will count towards this. Submit your Dual Match results to this form as soon as possible, and on or before March 30th, 2025 to guarantee they will be counted.

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For counting dual match wins, a school can only gain 1 win per semester from beating a particular opposing school. All other stats will count to help your tiebreaker, but only 1 win can be gained. 

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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.

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Below is the schedule of these matchups:

• Mesa Cup Feb. 22 ASU vs Grand Canyon
• Cape Coral Open March 8 Florida vs Florida State
• North Carolina Open April 5 By Invitation
• Red Rock Open April 9 By Invitation
• Atlanta Slam May 17 By Invitation

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Dual Match Weekends

To facilitate many dual matches at once, we recommend schools organize Dual Match Weekends to have 3-4 schools all play dual matches against each other. 

• All schools involved need to bring the same number of teams
• We estimate each match taking 75 minutes, so use that number to schedule out the Dual Match Weekend depending on how many teams each school brings.
  • 1 team - 75 minutes (1.25 hours) per dual match
  • 2 teams - 150 minutes (2.5 hours) per dual match
  • 3 teams - 225 minutes (3.75 hours) per dual match
• For both 3 and 4 schools in attendance, 3 “rounds” of dual matches will be played. If it is 3 schools, have the host take the bye in the middle so the visiting schools can leave or arrive early.
  • 3 schools - (R1) A vs B; (R2) B vs C; (R3) A vs C
  • 4 schools - (R1) A vs B, C vs D; (R2) A vs C, B vs D; (R3) A vs D, B vs C

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Exhibition Games

We are always looking for ways to get players not on the starting team involved in the action! We recommend creating an exhibition bracket or pools to get games for these players. This can take any form you think will work best. 

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One way to do this is to use “inverse groups”: groups where you play no one of your group but everyone from a different group. School A and School B could create groups of 4 that only contain players from their school, and then they would play everyone from the opposing group, ensuring maximum cross-school play. 

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We are also working on creating the No-Same-School Scheduling Tool (NoSSST for short). When functioning, NoSSST will create a round robin with players from different schools but omit rounds where players from the same school face each other. This will allow for higher flexibility in scheduling exhibition games while also maximizing cross-school play!

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To learn more about DUPR Collegiate Pickleball, visit our website.

If you're diving into the world of pickleball, understanding the differences between indoor and outdoor pickleballs is crucial. Whether you're a seasoned player or just starting out, choosing the right indoor pickleball can make all the difference in your game. This guide will explore the unique features of indoor pickleballs, the best brands available, and essential equipment, so you can optimize your gameplay.

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What Makes Indoor Pickleballs Unique?

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Indoor pickleballs are designed specifically for indoor play on smooth courts. Unlike outdoor pickleballs, which are built to withstand wind and rough surfaces, indoor pickleballs are optimized for controlled indoor environments.

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Weight and Control: Indoor pickleballs tend to be lighter than their outdoor counterparts, making them easier to control. This lighter weight allows for more precise shots and greater maneuverability. It’s particularly helpful for players who prefer finesse and control rather than power.

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Larger, Fewer Holes: Indoor pickleballs typically feature fewer holes and larger openings. This reduces drag and creates a more predictable flight pattern. Since there’s no wind indoors to affect the ball’s movement, the larger holes provide a balanced trajectory.

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Softer Bounce and Impact: Indoor pickleballs are crafted to provide a consistent bounce, making them ideal for indoor courts. They also feature a softer impact, which contributes to a smoother playing experience and less noise during matches. This is important in indoor settings, where sound levels can be more noticeable.

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Best Indoor Pickleballs on the Market

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When selecting indoor pickleballs, personal preference and playing style play a significant role. High-quality indoor pickleballs are designed for durability, visibility, and performance. Below are some of the top-rated brands:

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ONIX Fuse Indoor Pickleballs

ONIX Fuse balls are known for their durability, true flight, and consistent bounce, making them a favorite among competitive players. Their design ensures that the ball maintains a steady path throughout the game, providing excellent control.

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Gamma Photon Indoor Pickleballs

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These pickleballs are praised for their visibility and balanced feel, offering precision and consistency. The unique hole pattern and the soft feel make them ideal for players who rely on control.

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Jugs Indoor Pickleballs

Jugs balls are lightweight and soft, perfect for recreational play. Their softer construction makes them a great choice for beginners or those who prefer a less aggressive playing style.

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When selecting the best indoor pickleballs for you, consider the material used, bounce consistency, and hole pattern that best aligns with your style of play.

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Indoor vs Outdoor Pickleballs: Key Differences

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Understanding the differences between indoor and outdoor pickleballs can help you adapt your strategy for each environment. Both types are designed with specific needs in mind, so it's essential to recognize how they impact gameplay.

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Bounce: Indoor pickleballs have a softer bounce compared to outdoor balls. This is ideal for finesse shots, where precision and control are crucial. The softer bounce also makes it easier to perform delicate shots like dinks and drops.

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Noise: Indoor pickleballs are quieter than outdoor ones, which is important in indoor environments where noise can be disruptive. This quieter performance makes indoor balls more suited to the acoustics of indoor courts, where sound tends to echo.

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Visibility: Indoor pickleballs often come in bright colors, such as neon green or yellow, to improve visibility under artificial lighting. This ensures that players can track the ball more easily during fast-paced rallies, especially in gyms or courts with low lighting.

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Hole Pattern: Indoor balls generally have fewer, larger holes. This reduces drag and makes the ball fly with greater consistency. In contrast, outdoor pickleballs have more, smaller holes to better withstand wind and other elements outside.

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Surface Compatibility: Indoor pickleballs are made for smooth surfaces, allowing for a more predictable bounce. In contrast, outdoor balls are designed to withstand harsher surfaces, such as asphalt or concrete, which makes them more rugged and durable.

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Indoor Pickleball Reviews: What Players Are Saying

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Indoor pickleball reviews often highlight the importance of selecting the right ball for your playing style. Competitive players typically prefer balls with consistent performance, while recreational players may opt for lighter, softer balls. Reviews also mention that the best indoor pickleballs deliver a dependable bounce and durability over time.

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Competitive Players: Many competitive players favor ONIX and Gamma balls due to their consistent flight and durability. These brands are recognized for their ability to maintain control even in high-intensity games.

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Recreational Players: Recreational players often prefer Jugs for their lightweight feel and affordability. These balls are easy to play with and provide a great experience without the high cost.

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Feedback from players consistently emphasizes the importance of choosing indoor pickleballs with a good balance of durability, visibility, and consistent bounce.

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Why Brand Matters in Indoor Pickleballs

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The brand of your indoor pickleball can have a significant impact on your gameplay. Trusted brands invest in quality materials and conduct rigorous testing to ensure their products meet the expectations of players at every skill level. Popular brands like ONIX, Franklin, and Gamma are known for their consistency, durability, and innovation.

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ONIX: ONIX is a leading brand known for producing durable balls with excellent flight characteristics. Their indoor pickleballs are designed to provide precision and consistency, making them a popular choice for competitive play.

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Gamma: Gamma pickleballs are known for their balance and precision. They offer excellent visibility and are ideal for players who want a reliable ball for recreational and competitive play.

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Franklin Sports: A trusted name in pickleball, Franklin Sports provides high-quality indoor pickleballs that are perfect for casual and competitive players alike. Their commitment to durability and innovation makes them a top choice.

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Dura: Dura is a great choice for competitive players. Known for their durability and consistent flight, Dura balls are designed to withstand intense gameplay and provide reliable performance.

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Pickleball Now: Pickleball Now balls are designed with recreational players in mind. They provide an affordable option for casual games without sacrificing playability.

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Specifications to Look For in Indoor Pickleballs

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When choosing indoor pickleballs, understanding their specifications can help you make an informed decision. Indoor pickleballs are typically about 2.87 inches in diameter and weigh between 0.8 and 0.9 ounces. These measurements provide an optimal balance of control and durability for indoor courts.

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Hole Pattern: Indoor balls generally have larger, fewer holes, which helps reduce drag and makes the ball fly more smoothly. This design is ideal for indoor conditions where wind isn’t a factor.

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Bounce Quality: The bounce of an indoor pickleball is softer than that of an outdoor ball, which is crucial for indoor play. The softer bounce ensures that the ball reacts predictably on smooth surfaces, making it easier to control during play.

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Material: Polyethylene is the most common material for indoor pickleballs. It offers a good balance of durability, softness, and consistent bounce, making it the preferred choice for most indoor balls.

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Key Differences Between Indoor Pickleballs

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While all indoor pickleballs are designed for smooth courts, they are not all the same. Some are made for competitive play, offering precision and durability, while others are better suited for casual games due to their softer feel and affordability.

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Material: Polyethylene is widely used in indoor balls for its balance of softness and durability. It ensures a consistent bounce while maintaining the ball's structural integrity.

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Visibility: Bright colors like neon green or yellow improve visibility, ensuring players can track the ball easily in indoor settings, even under artificial lighting.

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Control: Indoor pickleballs are designed to provide better control and spin, thanks to their smooth surfaces and predictable bounce. This allows for a more strategic game focused on placement and precision.

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Indoor Pickleball Buying Guide

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Purchasing indoor pickleballs doesn't have to be overwhelming. Here are a few steps to help you choose the right ball for your needs:

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1. Assess Your Needs: Determine whether you play recreationally or competitively. Competitive players may prioritize durability and consistent performance, while recreational players might look for affordability and a lightweight design.

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2. Research Brands: Stick to trusted names in the pickleball industry. ONIX, Gamma, and Jugs are all well-regarded brands known for producing high-quality indoor pickleballs.

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3. Read Reviews: Check player reviews to get an idea of how the ball performs in real-world conditions. This can give you valuable insights into bounce quality, durability, and overall playability.

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4. Test Different Balls: Try out different balls from various brands to see which one feels best for your style of play. You may find that one ball’s bounce or weight suits your game better than another.

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Features That Make Great Indoor Pickleballs

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The best indoor pickleballs deliver consistent bounce, durability, and excellent visibility. High-quality indoor balls also feature smooth surfaces for better control and spin, and their durability minimizes the need for frequent replacements. Bright colors help players keep track of the ball during fast exchanges, while lightweight designs enhance maneuverability.

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How DUPR Enhances Indoor Pickleball Matches

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For serious players, DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) offers a tool to track performance and find opponents of similar skill levels. DUPR allows players to measure their improvement and ensures competitive fairness in matches. Whether using ONIX Fuse Indoor Pickleballs or competing in a league, DUPR helps players set goals and achieve steady progress, making every match more rewarding.

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The professional pickleball world was recently met with the news that Ben and Collin Johns, one of the sport's most dominant partnerships in this era of of the sport, will be parting ways heading into 2025. As this chapter closes on one of pickleball's most successful teams, we want to take a look at the remarkable statistics that defined their partnership and explore how they have helped shape the game.

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By the Numbers

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The statistics behind the Johns brothers' partnership tell a story of unprecedented dominance. From 2020 through 2023, they maintained win percentages that redefined excellence in professional pickleball. Their peak came in 2023 with an extraordinary 93.51% win rate, securing 72 victories against just 5 losses. This followed equally impressive showings in 2020/2021 (91.38%) and 2022 (90.11%).

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With an 81.71% win rate in 2024 (67 wins, 15 losses), the Johns brothers showed signs of change while maintaining a level of success most partnerships dream of. Their consistency across seasons set competitive standards in professional pickleball. Meanwhile, competition is tougher than ever. Ben remains number 1, but Collin, once ranked in the mid-teens for male doubles, has dropped to 33rd over the last year. The sport has evolved around them with new talent raising the bar.

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Medal Count and Tournament Dominance

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Their tournament achievements paint an even more compelling picture. Across 66 tournaments, they accumulated 52 medals - 43 golds, 8 silvers, and 1 bronze. This translates to a remarkable 79% podium percentage and a 65% rate of securing gold medals. Their year-by-year consistency tells its own story:

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• 2024/2025: 8 gold medals (tour-leading), 2 silvers
• 2023: 13 gold medals, 1 silver - their most dominant year
• 2022: 13 gold medals, 4 silvers - establishing their dynasty
• 2021/2020: 9 gold medals, 1 silver, 1 bronze (in just 12 tournaments)

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To put these numbers in perspective, Ben Johns has accumulated 43 career gold medals in men's doubles, while Collin has 33. The next closest competitor, Matt Wright, stands at 18. As a team, their 33 gold medals significantly outpace other partnerships - Frazier/Johnson and Newman/Wright follow with 10 and 8 golds respectively (Pickleball.com).

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The 2024 Transition Year

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The 2024 season marked a notable shift in their dominance, coinciding with broader changes in professional pickleball. The sport's evolution toward a more power-driven style presented new challenges to their traditionally patient, strategic approach. Their 81.71% win rate, while still impressive, represented the first time in four years they performed below the 90% threshold.

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This transition reflected larger changes in professional pickleball, where the emphasis shifted from the dinking game to a more aggressive, power-based style. The introduction of new equipment and evolving tactics meant that the patient, methodical approach that had served them so well faced new challenges. 

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The Johns brothers' adaptation to these changes, while successful by most standards, couldn't quite match their previous levels of dominance.

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Tournament-by-Tournament Analysis

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A closer look at their tournament performances reveals remarkable consistency. In their 58 tournaments together, they reached at least the semifinals in 51 events - an 88% rate of deep tournament runs. This level of consistency is particularly impressive given the increasing depth of talent in professional pickleball and the physical demands of the modern game.

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Their ability to perform under pressure was equally notable. In gold medal matches, they maintained a winning percentage above 80%, demonstrating their capacity to elevate their game when the stakes were highest. This clutch performance helped establish their reputation as the team to beat in any major tournament.

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Individual Achievements and Partnership Synergy

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While both players brought individual strengths to the partnership, their success stemmed from exceptional teamwork and complementary skills. Ben's aggressive style and dynamic shot-making paired perfectly with Collin's steady defensive play and consistent resetting ability. This combination created a partnership that could adapt to any opponent's strategy while maintaining their own high level of play.

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Their individual achievements within the partnership are equally impressive. Ben's 43 career gold medals in men's doubles set a standard that may never be matched, while Collin's 33 gold medals would be a career-defining achievement for most players, highlighting the extraordinary nature of their partnership.

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Looking Ahead to 2025

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As both players look toward 2025, the professional pickleball landscape enters a new era. Ben Johns, widely regarded as one of the sport's premier players, has several potential high-profile partnerships on the horizon. For Collin, who has demonstrated particular strength on the right side, opportunities exist to forge new partnerships that could showcase different aspects of his game.

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The dissolution of this partnership will lead to changes across professional pickleball as players adjust their strategies for the 2025 season. The season is expected to be one of the most dynamic in recent memory, with new partnerships and rivalries forming.

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It has been rumored that Ben will team up with Gabe Tardio, Hayden Patriquin, and Maxwell Freeman, a left-handed player, along with potentially others not mentioned. The combination of an aggressive right-handed player with a lefty-righty duo will be closely watched, as Ben has previously stated that this type of pairing could be the future of the game’s top partnerships.

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Overall, the Johns brothers' partnership represents more than just statistical excellence - it established a benchmark that may stand unchallenged in professional pickleball. Their consistent performance over multiple years, maintaining extraordinary win percentages and accumulating medals at an unprecedented rate, speaks to a level of dominance rarely seen in any sport.

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Their legacy extends beyond their on-court achievements. They helped establish professional pickleball's competitive standards, influenced training methodologies, and contributed to the sport's growing popularity. While their partnership may be ending, their impact on the sport will continue to be felt for years to come.

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Attribution: Data and background information sourced from DUPR and Pickleball.com

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Your DUPR rating, your way

It’s now easier than ever to know where you belong on the court.

Whether you're new to pickleball or an experienced player without a rating, the Coach-Assigned DUPR is a great way to kickstart your pickleball journey!

Maybe you’re just starting out in pickleball, and competing in DUPR-rated events feels overwhelming, especially if you’re unsure of your skill level. Or perhaps you’re an experienced player who just hasn’t logged any matches yet. 

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That’s why we’ve teamed up with MyDUPRCoach — a free app that connects players with top pickleball coaches across the country for skill assessments and DUPR ratings. 

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With this partnership we aim to:

• Help you get a clear starting point for your pickleball journey.
  
• Ensure you know where you belong before signing up for your first DUPR club event, league, or tournament.

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Your initial rating is an on-ramp towards a lifelong journey of improvement as you track your progress and boost your rating!

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How does MyDUPRCoach work?

1. Once you’ve created your DUPR account, you can download the free MyDUPRCoach app and connect your DUPR Player ID.
   
2. In the MyDUPRCoach app, you answer a few simple questions about your current pickleball level and can either book a session with a coach in your area, or submit a video of your gameplay.
   
3. Within minutes, you are matched to a DUPR coach who assesses your level and provides you with an initial DUPR rating without the need for official matches.

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It’s a stress-free way to launch your pickleball upskilling journey and gain confidence before diving into official DUPR-rated competitive play!

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Why Choose MyDUPRCoach?

• Flexible Options: Get rated your way—through video upload or coach assessment.
• Accessible to Everyone: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, MyDUPRCoach makes ratings simple and approachable.‍
• Ready to Play: Once you have your coach-assigned initial DUPR rating, you’re all set to join open play, tournaments, or leagues with confidence.

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Click here to start your pickleball journey today—your rating is just one coach assessment away!

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Your service stance in pickleball can significantly influence your game. Whether you're aiming for power, spin, or balance, understanding the pros and cons of different stances can elevate your serve. Pro player Bobbi Oshiro breaks down the common service stances and their unique advantages.

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1. The Open Stance

The open stance is characterized by feet and hips aligned slightly parallel to the baseline. Tyson McGuffin, a top pro player, is a prime example of this stance in action.

• Advantages: This stance helps generate more topspin, often resulting in a serve with a noticeable arch. By loading the dominant leg and efficiently rotating the hips, players can get underneath the ball to add that extra spin.
• Ideal For: Players who want to add a curve to their serve and aim to challenge opponents with unpredictable ball movement.

2. The Closed Stance

In the closed stance, feet and hips are positioned slightly perpendicular to the baseline. Dekel Bar, known for his powerful serves, often uses this stance.

• Advantages: This position typically produces a flatter and faster serve. The perpendicular alignment allows for a more direct and forceful ball trajectory.
• Ideal For: Players looking to dominate with speed and power, keeping opponents on the defensive.

3. The Semi-Open Stance

The semi-open stance is a hybrid of the open and closed stances. According to Bobbi Oshiro, this stance offers a balanced approach.

• Advantages: It provides versatility, enabling players to switch between generating topspin and delivering a flatter serve when needed.
• Ideal For: Players seeking a middle ground between power and spin, offering adaptability to different match situations.

Finding Your Perfect Serve Stance

Each stance has its unique strengths, so the key is experimenting to discover what suits your playing style. Whether you’re aiming to outspin, outpace, or outmaneuver your opponent, your service stance can be a game-changer. Take inspiration from the pros, hit the court, and start fine-tuning your serve today!

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To watch pro player, Bobbi Oshiro demonstrate serving stances, click here!

At DUPR, we’re committed to providing you with the most accurate and dynamic rating system possible. We value your input and are always looking for ways to improve.

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Disclaimer: This blog post may reference a previous version of the DUPR algorithm. Our system is constantly evolving to provide the most accurate and fair ratings possible. For the most up-to-date information on how your rating is calculated, please visit our How It Works page.

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As of Januart 2025, Sarah Carpenter, Lead Data Scientist at DUPR, is here to walk you through the latest updates:

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More Dynamic Ratings for Active Players

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Some active players have reached a point where their new matches aren’t impacting their ratings enough, so we’ve made an adjustment to the algorithm to allow for more movement with each match.

Following our initial update at the end of October 2024, this adjustment is another step toward ensuring your rating keeps up with your performance.

 Rally Scoring Differentiation

Rally scoring matches often have closer scores compared to traditional scoring. To reflect this, we’ve refined the win intensity formula to reward performance more fairly in rally scoring games.

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 A Boost to Your Ratings

With these algorithm improvements, all matches have been recalculated. You might notice a slight increase in your Doubles and/or Singles rating! While your match-by-match history stays the same, your overall rating now better reflects your play.

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To learn more about these adjustments and other hot topics surrounding the DUPR Rating, check our our How It Works Page

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We’re always working to make DUPR the most accurate and player-focused rating system out there. If you have any questions or feedback about these updates, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Thanks for being such a valued part of the DUPR community!

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D.C. Pickleball Team and Down the Line Sports Center Partner on Groundbreaking Initiative for Local Amateur Pickleball Players launching Road to Minors (RTM) Tournament Series

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New Program to Give Opportunity for D.C.-Area Players to Earn Spots On DCPT’s Minor League Pickleball Team Rosters

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Washington, D.C. – January 13, 2025 – Major League Pickleball’s (MLP) D.C. Pickleball Team (DCPT), Down the Line Sports Center (DTL), Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR), and Pickleball Drop Shop (PDS) have partnered to announce the launch of a first-of-its-kind pathway for amateur pickleball players: Road to Minors (RTM) Tournament Series.

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The RTM Tournament Series is the first-ever year-round program designed to identify and cultivate local talent to ladder up to D.C. Pickleball Team’s Minor League Pickleball rosters.

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All events will be hosted exclusively by Down the Line Sports Center, where players will participate in DUPR sessions and monthly tournaments to earn points in an effort to qualify for DCPT’s MiLP DUPR 12 to 22 rosters. Weekly DUPR sessions begin Friday, January 31, and the first tournament kicks off Friday, February 28.

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This initiative marks a significant milestone for pickleball enthusiasts, providing a structured pathway to elevate their game, compete at a higher level, and engage with D.C. Pickleball Team’s leading coaches and talent evaluators.

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Registration is now open via Pickleballtournaments.com and the DCPT and DTL websites.

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How It Works

• RTM DUPR Sessions: Participants must complete a minimum number of RTM DUPR sessions to ensure accurate ratings and fair competition. All sessions will be offered weekly, starting Friday, January 31, at Down the Line Sports Center in Fairfax, Virginia. Events will move to the new state-of-the-art Annandale facility when it opens this Summer. This local focus reflects DCPT and DTL’s shared commitment to fostering talent within the DMV community.
• Tracking Progress: Player performance will be monitored via DUPR and Pickleballbrackets, ensuring transparent and accurate tracking of scores and progress. This system enables participants and the DC Pickleball Team to effectively evaluate top players throughout the year.
• Monthly RTM Tournaments & Wildcard Opportunities: Beginning in February, RTM tournaments will feature men’s doubles, women’s doubles, and mixed doubles at DUPR levels ranging from 3.0 to open division. Points will be awarded to the top four teams in each division. In addition to monthly tournaments, players will have opportunities to enhance their profiles and impress DCPT scouts through special combines and mini-tournaments throughout the year.
• Year-End RTM Cup: The series will culminate in an MiLP-format tournament, where top players will showcase their skills in front of DCPT ownership and coaching staff for potential Minor League roster spots and an opportunity to represent the team at The Dink MiLP Nationals in December.
• Unique Giveaways at all the events there will be unique giveaways for participants including RTM branded shirts provided by RTM’s Official Retail Partner, Pickleball Drop Shop, and other brands. The first round giveaway sponsor, Paddletek, will provide each RTM first round winner a Paddletek paddle. Limited edition Helios arm sleeves will also be provided.

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Don’t miss your chance to join the Road to Minors and take the first step toward a spot on the D.C. Pickleball Team’s Minor League roster!

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If you are interested in running an RTM Tournament, go to www.roadtominors.com for more information.

                                                              ###

About D.C. Pickleball Team:

D.C. Pickleball Team (DCPT) is DC’s Premier Level Major League Pickleball (MLP) team that joined MLP ahead of the 2023 season. DCPT’s ownership group includes Al Tylis, Sam Porter, Eva Longoria, Justin Verlander, Kate Upton, Rip Hamilton, Shawn Marion, Odell Beckham Jr., Cliff Avril and Mesut Ozil.

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DCPT won the franchise’s first ever MLP Championship on November 5, 2023 in Dallas. The current roster includes James Ignatowich, world ranked #3 in pickleball; Rachel Rohrabacher, former D1 tennis star at the University of South Carolina, MLP Champion, and top ten ranked pickleballer; Dekel Bar, former pro tennis player and world pickleball ranked #6; and Vivian Glozman, former D1 tennis standout at the University of Virginia, and now pickleball’s fastest rising star.

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For more information about D.C. Pickleball Team, visit dcpickleballteam.com and follow on social media: Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and YouTube.

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About Down the Line (DTL) Sports Center

Down the Line Sports Center is a premier pickleball and sports facility dedicated to fostering growth, competition, and community engagement. Located in the heart of Virginia, DTL provides state-of-the-art facilities and programs for athletes of all levels. From organized leagues and tournaments to open play, private instruction, and social events, DTL provides a place for your love of pickleball to thrive.

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DTL is a one-of-a-kind facility that offers training and events to take your game to the next level. From beginners looking to learn to seasoned players looking to compete at a higher level, DTL provides the best resources to elevate your game. DTL also features a custom app that revolutionizes the way you book courts, sign up for events, and capture your most remarkable pickleball moments. With this innovative app you can record game footage that can be replayed and shared as you relive your best shots. For more information about DTL, visit dtlsportscenter.com and follow on Instagram @dtlsportscenter and Facebook @Down the Line Sports Center

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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.

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About MiLP

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

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

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About Pickleball Drop Shop

Pickleball Drop Shop (PDS) is a team of individuals who share a love, passion, and drive to spread pickleball through their communities. The company believes that pickleball isn’t just a sport or business, but a place to build friends, family, and endless opportunities. PDS has an online presence and now brick-and-mortar location based just outside the heart of Georgia in Norcross. Specializing in selling high end pickleball products ranging from paddles, gear, accessories, and their own line of merchandise, PDS continues to expand their reach around their brand with their iconic moon man logo.  PDS is working with B2C, B2B, and prides their work in being more than a “traditional” retail store. For more information on Pickleball Drop Shop, visit the official website and follow on Instagram @pickleballdropshop; just look for the Moon Man.

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About Major League Pickleball (MLP by Margaritaville)

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 live events and fan experience in the sport. In 2024, MLP and the PPA Tour merged under the newly-formed United Pickleball Association, bringing together the leading professional pickleball organizations under a single entity. For more information on Major League Pickleball, visit the official website and follow MLP on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and YouTube.

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Pickleball has grown into one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, but its quirky name continues to spark curiosity. Let’s dive into the pickleball naming story to uncover its roots and the charming tale behind the name.

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The Pickleball Name Origin Story

Pickleball was invented in the summer of 1965 on Bainbridge Island, Washington, by Joel Pritchard, Bill Bell, and Barney McCallum. The pickleball origin story reveals that they created the game as a way to entertain their families, using a combination of badminton, ping-pong, and tennis equipment. But how did this inventive sport earn its peculiar name?

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Was Pickleball Named After a Dog?

One of the most popular theories is that the game was named after the Pritchard family dog, Pickles. According to this version of the pickleball name explanation, Pickles would chase the ball during games, and the family affectionately called it "Pickle's ball," which eventually morphed into "pickleball."

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The "Pickle Boat" Connection

Another explanation rooted in pickleball history is tied to the term "pickle boat." In rowing, the pickle boat is a crew made up of leftover rowers from other teams. Joan Pritchard, Joel Pritchard’s wife, reportedly thought the mashup nature of the game—combining elements from various sports—resembled a pickle boat. This clever analogy contributed to the pickleball name history.

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The Truth Behind the Pickleball Name

While both stories are charming, Barney McCallum clarified in later interviews that the sport was named before the Pritchards got their dog, Pickles. This suggests that the pickle boat story holds more weight in explaining the origin of the pickleball name.

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Why the Name Stuck

The playful and memorable pickleball name meaning contributed to the sport's growing popularity. Its unique name distinguishes it from other sports and adds an element of curiosity, enticing people to learn more about pickleball’s history and try the game themselves.

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Explore More About Pickleball

Curious to learn more about pickleball history and how DUPR is revolutionizing the game? Check out our website and discover why DUPR’s rating system is a game-changer for players worldwide.