College Pickleball Club Startup Guide: Starting a pickleball club in college is now easier and more popular than ever. With over 300 universities already offering clubs, students across the U.S. are joining the trend. By following a few clear steps, students can launch their own club, build a team, and even join national competitions.
Find Out What Your School Needs
Every college has its own rules for starting a club. Students should search online for steps like “[Your School Name] how to start a club.”
Important details include:
Application deadlines
How many members are needed
Required club leaders
If a staff or faculty advisor is necessary
Most colleges treat club sports and student organizations differently. Students should first register as a student group before applying for official club sport status. Once approved, the club becomes official.
Get Members Involved
The next step is getting people to join. This means finding others interested in playing and spreading the word.
Some ways to find members:
Visit on-campus pickleball classes
Attend intramural tournaments
Join the school’s club fair
Make a website or social media page
Post flyers with QR codes that link to your accounts
Reserve on-campus courts or ask local centers for court time
New players should be welcomed and taught how to play. This builds trust and keeps them coming back. A group chat or email list helps keep everyone updated.
Grow the Club
Once a few members are active, the club can begin to grow.
Start by setting regular weekly practices. This helps with planning and shows others when to join. Begin collecting basic gear like paddles, balls, and nets. Ask alumni or experienced players to donate.
Local businesses may also support with gear or funding. A special tip is to create a DUPR Digital Club. It helps track games, member progress, and makes the club look more organized.
“Start your Digital Club for FREE here.”
Play Against Other Schools
After the club is set up and has enough members, students can take the next step and compete.
Ways to do this:
Reach out to schools nearby
Use the DUPR directory or social media to find teams
Set up friendly matches or local tournaments
Run drills to boost skills
Invite coaches to lead training sessions
Once the team is ready, they can look into playing in official college events.
The Collegiate Pickleball Tournament (CPT) calendar lists events where schools can send co-ed teams (two men and two women). Top teams might win scholarships or a chance to compete at the Collegiate National Championship in April.
Tools and Tips
Students looking for extra help can download a full 24-page Collegiate Pickleball Club Guide. It has advice from past club leaders and includes meeting plans, fundraising tips, and practice ideas.
Starting a pickleball club is a fun way to meet people, play regularly, and help grow one of the fastest-rising sports in the U.S.
News in Brief: College Pickleball Club Startup Guide
Starting a pickleball club at college is simple and growing in popularity. Over 300 schools have already joined the movement. With school approval, member support, and regular practice, students can even compete nationwide through events like the Collegiate Pickleball Tournament and the Collegiate National Championship.
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