The Biggest Pickleball Party in the World!
We’re talking about the Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championships held in Naples, Florida, from April 15th thru the 22nd! This annual event is on everyone’s bucket list who is interested in or plays pickleball. With over 60+ courts and a Championship Court, this facility is the largest pickleball venue in the United States.
I had the pleasure of interviewing Terri Graham and Chris Evon, Co-Founders of the Minto U.S. Open Pickleball Championships, and over the eight years that they’ve been running, it just gets better and better.
More Players Than Ever Before
This year has been more significant than ever, with over five thousand player applicants! Of those five thousand, approximately three thousand are accepted. A mix of amateur and professional players ranging in age from 8 years old to 87 years young. This championship allows players to achieve new heights in the game and the unknown to become tomorrow's pros.
Southwest Florida’s Jewel Location
This tournament draws a lot of family & friends who come to this beautiful Southwestern Florida location for more than just great pickleball. The Naples area has gorgeous beaches along the Gulf Coast with warm waters and inviting sunsets. The restaurants in the area are supplied with local seafood fresh from the gulf waters to your table. The area has an authentic island vibe and terrific breezes that sweep off the Gulf of Mexico, keeping you cool and comfortable during this time of year.
What’s New This Year at the Championship?
If you’re unable to make it into the Championship Court arena, there is a large area just behind the Welcome Center that will host a 17-foot video wall for easy viewing, along with a food and beverage area nearby. The site will feature many top pickleball companies with shoes, paddles, apparel, and just about anything you can imagine around the sport. There will also be more food vendors from around the area with terrific local fare.
Sponsors Make the Magic Happen
The namesake of the championship, Minto Communities is a homebuilder, property, and investment company that has sponsored the event and is an integral part of the success of this tournament.
You also might have noticed in the naming of this terrific event, “Powered by Margaritaville,” which, with their help, makes this indeed the biggest pickleball party in the world!
A big shout-out to Collier County for building the most extraordinary pickleball facility in the world. This location is visited during the championship and throughout the year, making it the best of both worlds, vacation, and pickleball. Their vision and support have created the best destination for any pickleball players to come and enjoy!
Don’t Miss It!
This annual event is one not to miss; many put it on their pickleball calendars even if they’re not competing. One thing about pickleball that sets it apart from many other sports is its social component, a sense of community, and of course, fun! Be sure to make it down to Naples and be a part of the “biggest pickleball party” in the world!
