Playing in Amateur Pickleball Events

One of the great things about pickleball is that even skilled amateurs have opportunities to play in pickleball tournaments and competitions at even some of the highest levels and even get sponsorship deals! This is unlike most other professional sports and offers a chance to get onto the same field as the pros and may be part of the reason pickleball is the fastest-growing sport in America.

Thanks to organizations like DUPR, Minor League Pickleball, the United States Amateur Pickleball Association, World Pickleball Tour, and the USA Pickleball Association (USAPA), you can play in tournaments designed explicitly with the amateur in mind.

Let's explore the options open to amateurs across the pickleball world.

DUPR Waterfall

The DUPR Waterfall promises to be an amateur-only event like no other. It features a new and innovative format that offers players four (4) competitive matches within four hours. It's a large field tournament (128-256 players) made up of teams (either two men, two women, or one woman plus one man) competing against each other for a top spot and a platinum ticket to Nationals.

It welcomes players of all ages, genders, and skill levels. According to their site, you need a DUPR rating if you'd like to win the platinum ticket, though no rating is necessary to compete.

What makes it even better is that there are DUPR Waterfalls set up throughout the US in 2023, including Missouri, Ohio, Colorado, California, Texas, Arkansas, and many more! You can find out more information and register at their site.

Minor League Pickleball

When Major League Pickleball hit the scene, they knew they needed to create a way for talent to rise through the ranks. Hence, Minor League Pickleball is an opportunity for those interested in going pro or not quite ready for the pros to hone their skills and maybe punch their ticket to the big leagues someday.

And now, the MLP is taking that talent pool even further. Minor League Pickleball is launching fun, social, amateur team leagues across the country.

This team competition will consist of four players (two women and two men) competing against other teams over several days. Their site promises innovative formats with plenty of surprises in store. Those interested should check out the Minor League Pickleball site and see what they need to do to register and earn their spot on an amateur team.

World Pickleball Tour

If you’re an avid pickleball fan, then you’ve likely heard of the World Pickleball Tour (WPT). Its mission is to create player-focused experiences and tour events designed to ignite and nourish the love of pickleball. The WPT is quickly becoming one of the most popular pickleball tours in the world.

With 35+ events across all corners of the United States, the WPT has emerged as one of the most sought-after tours in pickleball, focusing 100% of its energy on amateur players and player experience. Between the no-pressure atmosphere, music, complimentary photographers, raffles, and other amenities, the WPT has built a fun and unique tour experience that will undoubtedly appeal to the pickleball masses. In a short amount of time, the WPT has become a premier tour with a new and exciting vision. Check out the tour dates for 2023 and be a part of the best player experience in pickleball!

The Amateur Pickleball Association (APA)

Perhaps no organization does more for amateur pickleball players than the Amateur Pickleball Association (APA). After all, it's in their name. The APA "is focused on the growth and development of pickleball through tournament formats curated by the player in order to provide an exceptional experience for the player."

Registration is open to all ages and skill levels. They had over 2,000 players attend events in 2022 and are looking forward to beating the record this year. Check out their events page to find out when events are coming to your area.

USA Pickleball

USA Pickleball is the national governing body for the sport of pickleball in the U.S. They host professional tournaments throughout the year and are dedicated to growing the sport of pickleball.

In addition to the USA Pickleball National Championships, they also offer amateur tournaments like the Diamond Amateur Championship. This year's tournament will be held December 3-10th and hosted by the Pictona at Holly Hill in Florida. To compete in the championship, you must compete in regional tournaments held throughout the year. You also need to be a member of USA Pickleball.

Learn more about USA Pickleball and where the regional events are happening on their site.

Local Tournaments

Of course, there are other options if you're not quite ready to take your game to the national level. Many pickleball clubs around the country host leagues and tournaments regularly featuring amateurs across all skill levels. Even if it’s the first time you play the game of pickleball, you can still find a way to compete.

Ask your local club or organization if you're unsure where to look for upcoming events. Many of these leagues are set up by the players themselves or volunteers who make it their purpose to spread their love of this incredible sport.

As you prepare for your next tournament or league match, be sure to take full advantage of the teachings and tips we offer at Pickleball University.