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‍KING CITY, Ontario – Kitchen Blockers, the first-in-its-category lensless protective eyewear designed specifically for pickleball, is proud to announce its partnership with DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating), becoming the official lensless eyewear partner of the world’s premier pickleball rating system. This collaboration between two profoundly impactful pickleball organizations highlights a shared commitment to elevating player experience, safety, and performance in the fastest-growing sport in America and beyond.

DUPR is the trusted global standard for pickleball ratings, used by thousands of leagues, tours, federations, and clubs worldwide. Its dynamic rating system unifies the sport across age, gender, and geography, ensuring fairness and consistency for players everywhere. With recent landmark agreements, including becoming the exclusive rating system for USA Pickleball-owned events, DUPR continues to strengthen competitive integrity and create a clearer, more connected pathway for athletes.

Kitchen Blockers joins this mission by addressing one of the sport’s most pressing needs: eye safety. Known for its innovative lensless design, Kitchen Blockers delivers maximum protection using military grade materials, without compromising visibility or comfort. Together, DUPR and Kitchen Blockers aim to ‘Change the Face of Pickleball’ by promoting smart, preventative measures that protect players at every level, from recreational enthusiasts to elite competitors.

"Every match matters in pickleball, and every player’s safety matters just as much," said Tito Machado, CEO of DUPR. "Partnering with Kitchen Blockers allows us to reinforce that commitment. As we unify the sport under one trusted rating system, we’re also helping ensure players can compete confidently and safely."

"We created Kitchen Blockers to make safety stylish and accessible for all pickleballers," said Brad Robins, founder of Kitchen Blockers. "Now, teaming up with DUPR, we’re thrilled to take awareness and protection to the next level with an organization whose mission aligns with our own."

As part of the partnership, Kitchen Blockers will activate at DUPR-affiliated events and tournaments, offering players education on eye safety and exclusive access to its signature lensless eyewear. This collaboration represents a pivotal step in unifying the sport’s competitive framework while prioritizing player well-being.

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About Kitchen Blockers

Kitchen Blockers is redefining pickleball safety with its innovative lensless eyewear, designed for ultimate protection and playability. With a mission to ‘Play Safe. Stay Safe.’, Kitchen Blockers empowers players to protect their vision without sacrificing style or performance.

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), Professional Pickleball Association (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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If you’ve been playing pickleball for a while, you’ve probably had this happen: you get the perfect high ball, swing hard… and somehow the point keeps going.

That’s because putaway shots aren’t about power. They’re about placement.

Knowing where to aim your putaways is one of the fastest ways to win more points, especially against better players who can block and reset surprisingly well.

Let’s break it down.

First Rule of Putaways: Don’t Aim at the Paddle

This sounds obvious, but it’s the most common mistake.

When players see a high ball, they panic and hit it straight at the opponent, usually chest-high. At slower levels, that might work. Against decent players, it almost never does.

Pickleball balls don’t travel that fast, and paddles are big. If you hit it right at someone, you’re basically helping them.

Instead, every putaway should answer one simple question:

Where can they NOT get their paddle?

The Best Target: The Feet

If you remember one thing from this blog, remember this: 

Feet are your safest, highest-percentage target.

A ball aimed at the feet:

• Forces an awkward half-volley
• Makes it hard to reset cleanly
• Often results in a pop-up or outright miss

This works whether your opponent is:

• At the kitchen
• Transitioning forward
• Slightly off-balance

You don’t need to hit it hard. A controlled shot dipping down at the feet is far more effective than a flat blast.

Pro tip: Think “down,” not “through.”

Second Best Target: The Open Court

Once you’re comfortable aiming low, start lifting your eyes.

If one opponent:

• Is leaning toward the middle
• Is shading crosscourt
• Just moved to cover their partner

That’s your cue.

Aim for the open space, not the person.

This is especially effective when:

• Both opponents are stacked
• One player is clearly late recovering
• You’ve pulled someone wide with a dink or speed-up
  
  

If the court is open, take it, but commit to the shot. Hesitation leads to balls drifting back toward defenders.

When to Go Middle (And When Not To)

The middle can be a great target, but only in the right situation.

Go middle when:

• Both players are moving in opposite directions
• There’s clear confusion about who should take the ball
• One player is backing up while the other is stepping in

Avoid the middle when:

• Both players are set and balanced
• Both paddles are up and ready

A hard ball down the middle to two prepared players usually comes back faster than it went in.

Adjust Your Target Based on Where They Are

This is where smarter players separate themselves.

If your opponent is at the kitchen:

• Aim low at the feet
• Avoid shoulder-height shots

If your opponent is back:

• Hit away from them, not at them
• Use angles
• Don’t rush; take the extra half-second to place the ball

If one player is up and one is back:

• Attack the player at the kitchen
• Their partner can’t help much from behind

Power Is Optional. Placement Is Not.

One of the biggest myths in pickleball is that you need to swing harder to finish points.

You don’t.

A 70% swing with the right target beats a 100% swing to the wrong place every time.

If you’re missing putaways, don’t tell yourself to “hit it harder.”
Ask yourself: Did I pick the right spot?

The Simple Checklist Before Every Putaway

Next time you get a high ball, pause for half a second and run through this:

1. Where are my opponents standing?
2. Whose feet are most exposed?
3. Is there open court I can safely hit into?

Then swing with control and conviction.

Great pickleball players don’t win points because they hit the ball harder. They win because they know where to aim.

Stop thinking that you need to hit a winner and start thinking of putaways as shots you place, not shots you smash, and you’ll be surprised how quickly your finishing improves.

Looking to keep improving? Head to the Pickleball Tips section of our blog for more advice to level up your game and DUPR rating.

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-- Rating System Anchors Two $600,000 Events, With First Major Set for March 2026 in Mesa --

Austin, Tex. — Pickle Money Ball (PMB) and DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) are excited to announce a new partnership naming DUPR as the official rating system for all Pickle Money Ball events. PMB has also unveiled a landmark $1.2 million payout structure for 2026, highlighted by two major events awarding $600,000 each. The first of these major tournaments is scheduled for March 19–20, 2026, in Mesa, Arizona, at Arizona Athletic Grounds.

“Pickle Money Ball is introducing a bold new competitive model, and DUPR is proud to support it as the official rating system,” said Tito Machado, CEO of DUPR. “Accurate, unified ratings are essential when you’re operating at this scale. This partnership ensures integrity across divisions and gives players nationwide a clear, credible way to compete for meaningful prize money.”

Recently debuting on the pickleball scene, Pickle Money Ball is redefining competitive play with a guaranteed $1.2 million in total payouts for 2026. Athletes qualify through PMB’s innovative nomination system, powered by cutting-edge Pickle Money Ball technology that tracks player performance across tournaments, leagues, and open play. 

Players can nominate any event they are already competing in, earning points based on participation, performance, and results. This model allows athletes nationwide to climb leaderboards and qualify for the $600,000 showcase events with no entry fees—without changing their existing competition schedules.

“This partnership represents a landmark step for Pickle Money Ball and is critical to preserving the integrity of the leaderboard,” said PMB CTO, Jonathan Williams. “By implementing a unified rating system, we ensure fairness across all five divisions—from the qualification process through the $600,000 events.” 

Using the Pickle Money Ball app, athletes can download the platform, create a free account, and begin competing right away. Players nominate events through the app, which means declaring their results to be eligible for leaderboard points. More information can be found on the PMB website HERE. 

The leaderboard features five divisions based on DUPR ratings, each including Men’s Doubles, Women’s Doubles, Men’s Singles, Women’s Singles, and Mixed Doubles. The top 64 athletes in each division will qualify for the Pickle Money Ball tournament. Here’s how to get your first DUPR pickleball rating.

Pickle Money Ball has partnered with Pickleball is Great (PIG) to produce the March 2026 Mesa event. Athletes will be able to earn leaderboard points toward qualification until March 8, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. CT, after which the top 64-ranked players in each division will receive invitations to compete in the tournament for their share of the $600,000 prize purse.

For more information, visit picklemoneyball.com or contact info@picklemoneyball.com or 903-781-0297.

About Pickle Money Ball 

Pickle Money Ball is a competitive pickleball platform dedicated to elevating the sport by providing athletes of all skill levels with the opportunity to compete, earn points, and qualify for major cash tournaments. Through its innovative app and leaderboard system, Pickle Money Ball connects players from across the country in a fair, transparent, and rewarding competitive environment. With major events featuring guaranteed prize payouts, Pickle Money Ball is redefining how players engage with the game—turning every match into a meaningful step toward championship play. For more information, visit picklemoneyball.com.

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), Professional Pickleball Association (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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Expanded partnership equips RSPA-certified pickleball coaches and members with the power of DUPR, new income opportunities, and plans for 2026 growth

Orlando, FL – January 5, 2026 – The Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA) today announced an expanded partnership with DUPR Coach, electing the Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR) as its exclusive global rating system for all 14,000 members. This partnership establishes a unified standard for player ratings, coaching excellence and player development worldwide.

Current RSPA-certified pickleball coaches can upgrade to DUPR Coach for just $50, gaining immediate access to the exclusive ability to generate Coach-Assigned DUPR ratings, utilize advanced assessment tools, and unlock new revenue opportunities.

Looking ahead to 2026, the RSPA and DUPR Coach will launch a series of initiatives designed to enhance teaching, standardize player ratings and advance player development. These include a combined certification and credential pathway, expanded access to DUPR Rating Sessions, and exclusive benefits for RSPA-certified pickleball professionals. Through the combined certification, coaches will gain hands-on experience with DUPR Coach tools, learn to assign official Coach-Assigned DUPRs and apply practical strategies to expand their programs and increase revenue. These initiatives are designed to empower RSPA-certified pickleball coaches to enhance their expertise, expand their impact and support the continued growth of pickleball at every level.

“This expanded partnership with DUPR Coach and the adoption of DUPR as our exclusive global rating system reinforces our commitment to elevating coaching standards and advancing the game. RSPA-certified pickleball coaches now have unmatched education, confidence and tools to deliver DUPR ratings, enhance player development, and grow their programs and income, positioning them at the forefront of pickleball,” said Brian Dillman, CEO of RSPA.

The RSPA’s expanded partnership with DUPR Coach, its exclusive adoption of DUPR as the global rating system and upcoming 2026 initiatives underscore the organizations’ commitment to coaching excellence, accurate player ratings and the growth of pickleball. As RSPA certifies and supports thousands of coaches each year, DUPR’s reach and the number of rated players worldwide will continue to expand.

"DUPR is the language of pickleball, and the RSPA has one of the greatest influences on coaches and players worldwide," said Tito Machado, CEO of DUPR. "We are empowering coaches to help more players speak the same language while delivering exceptional education and practical tools. This partnership demonstrates our shared commitment to advancing coaching excellence, player development, and the growth of pickleball globally."

RSPA-certified pickleball coaches can upgrade their certification and begin their DUPR Coach journey here for just $50. RSPA members who are not yet pickleball certified, as well as new members interested in joining, can look forward to the combined certification launching in 2026 and find more details on the RSPA website.

About the RSPA

The Racquet Sports Professionals Association (RSPA), formerly the United States Professional Tennis Association (USPTA), is the leading trade organization for racquet sports professionals. Since 1927, the RSPA has grown to support the diverse needs of the racquet sports industry, including tennis, pickleball, padel, squash and platform tennis. With more than 14,000 members worldwide and 17 divisions across the country, the RSPA offers career advancement support, certification and development opportunities, from coaching to club management, executive development to sales and marketing and beyond. Our mission is to champion the passion of racquet sports by developing professionals who lead with integrity, innovate in coaching and inspire a diverse and inclusive racquet sports community. Learn more at RSPA.net.

About DUPR Coach

DUPR Coach is a program designed to empower pickleball coaches to launch Coach-Assigned DUPR ratings for the 34 million non-rated players worldwide. Powered by MyJourney Pickleball, DUPR Coach helps coaches provide valuable insights into players’ skill levels and supports the growth of pickleball through more competitive, enjoyable play. Coaches interested in becoming DUPR Coaches can visit duprcoach.com/coach-cert to sign up and learn more.

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 federations. DUPR’s dynamic system unifies pickleball across age, gender, and location by analyzing match results to provide an accurate evaluation of players worldwide, on a scale from 2.000 to 8.000. DUPR is the official rating system of Pickleball Canada, the United Pickleball Association (UPA), PPA, Major League Pickleball (MLP), Life Time, The Picklr, and many more. DUPR also owns and operates Minor League Pickleball and Collegiate Pickleball, two of the largest amateur leagues in the sport. Players and organizers can sign up for free at www.dupr.com.

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After an action-packed 2025 collegiate season filled with Super Regionals, campus events, and championship-level matchups, a few programs clearly rose above the rest. Here are the college teams that delivered the strongest performances throughout the year and set the tone for what’s next in collegiate pickleball.

Utah Tech

Notable 2025 Tournament Results:

• Quarterfinalist – 2025 Collegiate National Championship
• Winner & Runner-Up – 2025–26 Utah Super Regional
• Winner – 2025 Collegiate World Championship
• Winner & Runner-Up – 2025–26 Arizona Super Regional

A perennial powerhouse, Utah Tech continues to be one of the deepest and most consistent programs in collegiate pickleball. Since the early days of the collegiate game, they’ve been known for elite talent, especially on the women’s side, and 2025 was no exception.

With standouts like Mary Monson, Ella Boydston, Dylan Ciampini, and Lauren Mercado, Utah Tech’s depth is almost unfair. In fact, their second-team women would likely start at most other schools. The team closed out 2025 on a tear, winning three straight tournaments. The big question heading into 2026: can they keep the momentum going and finish the season on top?

University of Texas

Notable 2025 Tournament Results:

• Winner – 2025 Collegiate National Championship
  
  

After coming up just short at the 2023 and 2024 Collegiate National Championships, Texas finally broke through in 2025 claiming the top spot in the country when it mattered most.

Despite dropping a few games in group play and entering the bracket as the 4-seed, Texas went on an impressive run, defeating Washington, Utah Tech, Grand Canyon, and TCU by 3-1 scores to capture the national title. Since then, the Longhorns have been relatively quiet on the collegiate scene. Will they resurface in 2026 to defend their championship? All eyes will be on Texas when the postseason rolls around again.

Virginia Tech

Notable 2025 Tournament Results:

• Winner – 2025 New Jersey Super Regional
• Winner – 2025 Roanoke College Cup Campus Regional
• Quarterfinalist – 2025 Collegiate World Championship
• Winner – 2025 Richmond College Cup Campus Regional
  
  

Flying a bit under the radar, Virginia Tech quietly put together one of the strongest regional seasons of any program in 2025. The Hokies consistently showed up and delivered wins across multiple events, proving they’re far more than just a regional threat.

With the Virginia Super Regional scheduled for February 7–8, Virginia Tech has a chance to continue asserting their dominance heading into 2026. As they demonstrated at the Collegiate World Championship, this is a team capable of making a deep run in any bracket when it counts.

2025 proved that collegiate pickleball is only getting deeper, faster, and more competitive. Utah Tech’s depth, Texas’ championship breakthrough, and Virginia Tech’s steady rise all point to one thing: the gap is closing, and every tournament in 2026 is going to feel like a postseason match. With Super Regionals and Nationals ahead, expect new rivalries, breakout players, and plenty of statement wins as teams fight to finish the season on top.

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What does it take to become a finalist in both the Collegiate National Championship and The Dink Minor League Pickleball National Championship in the same year? For Ellie Douglas, the answer is simple: good friends, great vibes, and a world-class tennis foundation.

We discuss with Ellie her rapid rise in the DUPR-rated world, the transition from competitive tennis, and the electric atmosphere of team-based pickleball.

The Road to the Minor League National Championship

Most players enter a National Championship with a rigorous training block. Ellie entered for the community.

"The boys on our team asked me to play," Ellie laughs. "I play with them all the time in Dallas, and they’re so fun. I love them. I just did it really for the vibes and for fun," Ellie said.

That "fun" translated into a high-stakes run to the finals of the DUPR 22+ Division. Despite being a full-time student, literally studying for her final exam the day after the tournament, Ellie’s competitive edge was unmistakable.

Collegiate vs. Minor League: Which Tour is Tougher?

Having reached the finals in both the collegiate and minor league, Ellie has a unique perspective on the level of play across the country. While the MiLP is known for its diverse age brackets and team formats, Ellie notes that the top-tier talent is remarkably consistent.

"When we got to the finals and semi-finals of the Collegiate tour, teams like FAU and UT were very good, just as good as some of these teams. The high level on both sides is really good," Ellie shared.

The Atmosphere: Why DUPR Events Hit Different

Whether you are playing for a college or a minor league team, the energy on the court is what keeps players coming back. Ellie describes the atmosphere at both events as "killer."

"Collegiate Nationals had an awesome atmosphere, so many people. This was awesome, too. In our finals, so many people were watching and cheering. It’s really fun," Ellie said.

The Transition: From Tennis Prodigy to Pickleball Powerhouse

Ellie isn't just any newcomer; she comes from an elite tennis background. After "retiring" from competitive tennis a year and a half ago, she didn't touch a racket for months. But the itch for competition eventually brought her back; this time to the pickleball courts.

Looking Ahead: The Goal for 2026

With a current  5.013, DUPR rating, Ellie is looking to climb the DUPR rankings as she transitions out of student life. Her goal for the 2026 season? More tournaments.

"I feel like you can get your DUPR up if you play more tournaments. I haven't played many yet, but I want to get out there, have fun, and see where it goes."

Are you ready to start your own journey to the National Championship? Find a pickleball event near you and start moving your rating today.

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As the holidays roll in, pickleball communities everywhere are looking for creative ways to celebrate the season. Whether you're hosting a club event, planning a neighborhood get-together, or simply want to add some holiday spirit to your weekly games, Christmas-themed pickleball activities are a fun way to connect, compete, and enjoy the game we all love.

Here are five festive pickleball activities perfect for Christmas, easy to organize, beginner-friendly, and guaranteed to bring out the holiday cheer.

1. Christmas Pickleball Tree Decorating Challenge

Turn your court into a winter wonderland! Set up a Christmas tree and let players decorate it using pickleball-themed ornaments, mini paddles, pickleball baubles, scorecard ornaments, and even garlands made of wiffle balls. If you want to take it up a notch, turn it into a competition: players earn ornament pieces by winning points or completing mini challenges.

2. Ugly Sweater Pickleball Tournament

Nothing says Christmas like an ugly sweater, especially one that restricts your overhead smash.
Players show up in their most festive, ridiculous sweaters and compete in a lighthearted round-robin. Give awards for “Most Festive,” “Most Likely to Cause a Fault,” and “Player Who Somehow Still Won in That Sweater.” 

3. Pickleball Gift Exchange Rally (White Elephant Style)

Combine a classic White Elephant with a rally-based twist. Players bring wrapped gifts (funny, pickleball-themed, or under a set price). Each rally winner gets to open, swap, or steal a gift.
Not only is it hilarious, but players also stay engaged because every point matters.

4. Holiday Skills Challenge: “Santa’s Pickleball Workshop”

Set up a series of festive skills stations, like “Elf Accuracy Alley,” “Reindeer Drop Shot Zone,” or “Santa’s Serve Sleigh.” Players earn points by hitting specific targets, completing timed drills, or performing trick shots. It’s great for player development and fun for all ages.

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5. Candy Cane Doubles Night

Pair up for a holiday-themed doubles session where every match comes with a twist. Some fun variations include:

• Candy Cane Rules: Only cross-court dinks count for double points
  
  
• Silent Night: Players can’t talk during play
  
  
• North Pole Switch: Teams switch sides every five points. Add candy canes as prizes or use red-and-white wiffle balls to make it extra festive.

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The holidays are all about spending time with people you love, and for many of us, that includes our pickleball community. These Christmas-themed pickleball activities bring together fun, creativity, and friendly competition while giving players a unique way to celebrate the season on the court.

Whether you choose to decorate a pickleball tree, host an ugly sweater tournament, or organize a candy cane doubles night, you’ll bring holiday spirit and great memories to your group.

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Hitting the perfect ATP is a true highlight-reel moment.  Check out that 11-year-old player at The Dink Minor League National Championship for example; that was definitely the shot of the year. 

But despite how flashy it looks, a great ATP isn’t about swinging as hard as possible. It’s actually a high-percentage, aggressive shot built on anticipation, patience, and smart targeting.

The best ATPs happen when you read the play early, let the ball clear the post, and swing around the ball with intention and not through it. When executed correctly, the ATP isn’t just a crowd-pleaser, it’s a controlled, repeatable weapon you can trust in tight moments.

Here are three simple keys to executing an ATP the right way:

1) Anticipate It Early

The ATP opportunity usually shows itself before the ball ever gets there. As soon as your opponent pulls you wide with a sharp cross-court dink, start expecting it. Read the angle early and use a quick crossover step to get into position faster.

2) Wait and Let the Ball Clear the Post

This is where most players rush the shot. Don’t. Be patient and allow the ball to fully pass the post before you swing. Waiting that extra beat gives you the space you need to hit around the net cleanly and with control.

3) Swing Around the Ball with Purpose

This isn’t a straight-through swing. Cup your wrist slightly and brush the outside of the ball. Your goal is to wrap the ball around the net, not drive through it.

• If the ball is very close to the net → aim for a sharp, short angle
  
  
• If the ball is a little farther from the net → target deeper toward the back corner
  
  

The ATP may grab the highlight, but the best ones are built on these fundamentals: reading the play early, staying patient, and choosing the right target. When you stop forcing the shot and start trusting the process, the ATP becomes less of a gamble and more of a reliable weapon.

Keep working on these details in practice, and you’ll start seeing more ATP opportunities, and converting more of them in real matches.

For more on-court tips, strategy breakdowns, and insights from top players and coaches, check out our Pickleball Tips section on our blogs page and make sure to follow @DUPRpb on both Instagram and Facebook.

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