The Lehigh Valley Fall Pickleball Classic is set to start at St. Luke’s SportsPlex in Allentown, Pennsylvania, from November 1 to November 3, 2024. This tournament promises to be a vibrant celebration of pickleball, welcoming players of all skill levels, from 2.5 to 5.0+, across age brackets ranging from 9 to 49 years and 50+. Participants will experience a thrilling competitive environment, whether they’re seasoned players or newcomers eager to test their mettle.
- Location: St. Luke’s SportsPlex, 4636 Crackersport Rd Suite 2, Allentown, PA
- Dates: November 1-3, 2024
- Skill Levels: 2.5 to 5.0+
- Age Brackets: 9-49 years and 50+
Tournament Format and Rules
The pickleball event will adhere to the USA Pickleball rules in their entirety, ensuring a fair and competitive environment for all participants. Events will primarily follow a round robin format, except for those in the open division.
- Format: Round robin for most events; double elimination for open divisions with six or more teams.
- Pool Play Matches: Single game to 11 or 15 points, win by 2.
- Playoffs: Maintain round robin format; single game to 15 points, win by 2.
- Division Merging: If a division has one to three teams, it may be merged with another division at the organizers’ discretion. However, care will be taken to avoid mixing different skill levels. If fewer than four entrants are registered, the tournament may not proceed with a draw, unless necessary.
- Playoffs and Medal Rounds: These will maintain the round robin format, featuring a single game to 15 points, also requiring a win by 2 points.
- Double Elimination for Open Divisions: Open divisions with six or more teams will participate in a double elimination format. Winners’ bracket matches will be best 2 out of 3 games to 11, while opportunity bracket matches, including the bronze medal match, will be a single game to 15. Gold medal matches will be best 2 out of 3 games to 11. Notably, in the 5.0+ open bracket events, bronze medal games will also be best 2 out of 3 games to 11.
Skill Level and Age Brackets
Participants are required to compete at the skill level of the higher-rated player or above. Organizers reserve the right to move unrated players to a higher bracket if deemed appropriate.
In age-based brackets, the bracket is determined by the age of the younger partner, and the split-age open will also be conducted in a round robin format.
- Skill Level Requirement: Compete at the higher-rated player’s level or above.
- Unrated Players: May be moved to a higher bracket.
- Age Bracket Determination: Based on the age of the younger partner.
Organizational Authority
The Tournament Director and Committee maintain the right to modify any bracket, division, or level as necessary for the smooth operation of the event. Their adaptability is essential in responding to unforeseen circumstances and enhancing the overall tournament experience.
Venue Information
The pickleball tournament will be hosted at Pickleball Lehigh Valley at St. Luke’s SportsPlex, located at 4636 Crackersport Rd Suite 2, Allentown, Pennsylvania, 18104.
- Surface Type: Pickleball Hardcourt Surface
- Play Area Type: Indoor Air Conditioned Pickleball Court
- Net Type: Portable
- Ball Used: Selkirk
- Number of Courts: 12
- Parking: No Fee
News in Brief: Lehigh Valley Fall Pickleball Classic
The Lehigh Valley Fall Classic will take place from November 1 to November 3, 2024, at St. Luke’s SportsPlex in Allentown, PA. Open to players of varying skill levels (2.5 to 5.0+) and age brackets (9-49, 50+), registration costs $65 and includes a tournament shirt and medals. Participants can compete in various events, with entry fees ranging from $20 to $40.
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