Wheelchair Pickleball Breaks Barriers: In a major step forward for inclusivity in the sport, wheelchair pickleball will move from exhibition to competition at the 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships. Taking place from Nov. 9-17 at the Arizona Athletic Grounds in Mesa, Arizona, this year’s event will mark the debut of competitive wheelchair pickleball divisions, signaling USA Pickleball’s commitment to expanding the sport to adaptive athletes.
Justin Maloof, the Chief Competition Officer for USA Pickleball, emphasized the importance of making pickleball accessible to everyone:
“At USA Pickleball, we’re committed to ensuring pickleball is a sport for all, including varying abilities of players,” Maloof said. “We’ve featured wheelchair pickleball exhibition games at past Nationals, but this year marks the first time these divisions can compete. We can’t wait to welcome our adaptive players to Mesa, Arizona this fall.”
Registration Now Open for Wheelchair Pickleball
For adaptive athletes eager to compete, registration for all wheelchair divisions is currently open until Sept. 30 at 8 p.m. PST. In addition to the wheelchair divisions, Professional and Junior categories are also accepting registrations during the same window. USA Pickleball advises athletes to sign up early due to limited availability.
Wheelchair pickleball matches will take place from Saturday, Nov. 9 through Monday, Nov. 11, and all adaptive players are eligible to compete, regardless of previous tournament experience.
An Enhanced Athlete Experience Awaits
Beyond the competition, athletes at this year’s USA Pickleball National Championships can look forward to a first-class experience. Registrants will receive premium items such as a commemorative pickleball gift, an aluminum bag tag, and a USA Pickleball Nationals pin, along with various partner giveaways.
On the sidelines, the event promises plenty for both athletes and guests, including spectator-friendly viewing areas, practice courts, off-court activities, and several food and beverage options. There will also be an all-player hospitality lounge and various player events to enhance the experience for all competitors. Ticket sales for spectators will begin in early fall.
Broader Divisions at the Championships
In addition to the wheelchair divisions, the 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships will feature amateur divisions ranging from Junior to 80+, allowing for a wide range of participants. USA Pickleball members secured their entry by competing in a USA Pickleball Golden Ticket qualifying event earlier in the year, ensuring top-tier competition across the board.
News in Brief: Wheelchair Pickleball Breaks Barriers
Wheelchair pickleball will debut as a competitive division at the 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships, held from Nov. 9-17 in Mesa, Arizona. This marks the first time adaptive athletes will compete for titles, following years of exhibition games. Registration is open until Sept. 30, and the wheelchair competitions will run from Nov. 9-11. Participants can expect enhanced amenities, including gifts, hospitality services, and a wide range of activities both on and off the court. Spectator tickets go on sale in early fall.
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