The DUPR and UPA are joining forces to enhance collegiate pickleball with the new Collegiate Pickleball Tour 2025 (CPT) launching in 2025. This initiative promises more opportunities for collegiate players to compete and showcase their skills at Major League Pickleball (MLP) and Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) events.
The CPT builds on the foundation laid by DUPR Collegiate Pickleball, offering an exciting platform for college athletes to elevate their game. With new events and increased paths to professional play, students will have a broader scope to grow and develop in the sport.
Key Events on the CPT Schedule
The MLP Mid-Season Tournament will feature the two finalist schools from the 2025 Collegiate National Championship, inviting them to compete in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Here, they will face off against MLP teams in the challenger bracket, with chances to win prize money and gain high-level experience.
The inaugural Collegiate World Championship will be held in Fall 2025, allowing players from all countries to represent their nation. Teams will consist of 2-3 male and 2-3 female players, who can team up with players from different universities. The event will determine the first-ever Collegiate World Champions through group play and playoff brackets.
The 2025 Collegiate National Championship will take place at Life Time Peachtree Corners in Atlanta, Georgia. The tournament will feature a 64-team format, with an additional 32-team bracket for second teams and schools without a bid.
National Championship Details
To compete in the 64-team bracket, schools must earn a bid through various methods, including performance at the 2024 Collegiate National Championship or Super Regionals. The tournament will follow a single-elimination format, where teams must win six consecutive matches to claim the championship title.
The scholarship breakdown for the first team bracket is as follows:
- 1st place: $15,000
- 2nd place: $5,000
- 3rd and 4th place: $2,500
- 5th through 8th place: $1,250
For the second team bracket, the prizes are:
- 1st place: $3,000
- 2nd place: $1,000
- 3rd and 4th place: $500
The Challenger Bracket will include Men’s Doubles, Mixed Doubles, and Women’s Doubles. Schools can earn rewards for participation, including prizes for the best-performing teams.
Super Regionals and Showcase Matches
Super Regionals serve as a critical opportunity for teams to earn bids to the National Championship. Each event will distribute four bids and $6,000 in scholarship funds to top teams. The first Super Regional of 2025 will be held from February 1-2 in Atlanta, Georgia.
Additionally, showcase matches will feature college teams competing under the lights at PPA tour stops. These matches will provide dual match opportunities and allow college athletes to showcase their skills alongside PPA pros.
Future of Collegiate Pickleball
The CPT is set to significantly impact collegiate pickleball, offering students more chances to compete and shine. With the addition of international tournaments and increased scholarship opportunities, the future looks bright for college athletes in the sport.
News in Brief: Collegiate Pickleball Tour 2025
The new Collegiate Pickleball Tour will enhance opportunities for college players, featuring national and international competitions with significant scholarship awards. The tour aims to elevate collegiate pickleball and prepare athletes for professional play.
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