Toronto United Pickleball Club: Toronto United Pickleball Club is making bold moves ahead of the 2025 season, retaining only one player from last year’s roster. The team, which won the 2023 Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL) Championship, is looking to rebuild after finishing fifth in 2024. The remaining five roster spots will be filled through the CNPL Draft on April 2.
Matthew Kawamoto Returns as Team Captain
The club has decided to re-sign only one player—team captain Matthew Kawamoto. “Matt has been our fearless leader from Day 1, and we could not be more excited to have him back, setting the tone for the next two years,” said Toronto United President and General Manager Ricky Liorti. The rest of the team will be rebuilt with new talent.
A Tough but Necessary Decision
Toronto United emphasized that the decision to part ways with the rest of the roster was not easy. “Every player who wore the Toronto United jersey last season brought something special to this organization,” Liorti said. “But professional sports are about making the tough calls to ensure long-term success.” The team aims to refocus and reload with the right mix of talent and leadership to reclaim its championship status.
CNPL Preseason Qualifier Events to Identify New Talent
To rebuild the roster, Toronto United will scout players through the CNPL Preseason Qualifier Events, where top competitors from across Canada will compete for a chance to join the team. The key events are:
- March 15 – Royal Westcourt Showdown (Montreal, QC)
- March 22 – Smash Pickleball Showdown (London, ON)
- March 29 – Okanagan Showdown (Vernon, BC)
These qualifiers will determine the best available players for the upcoming CNPL Draft.
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A Defining Moment for Toronto United
With five open roster spots, this offseason is one of the most significant in Toronto United’s history. “We are looking for players who want to win, who want to be part of something bigger, and who are ready to bring a championship back to Toronto,” Liorti said.
He also thanked fans and partners for their continued support, promising a stronger comeback in the 2025 season. “Your support fuels everything we do, and I can’t wait to show what’s next,” he added.
News in Brief: Toronto United Pickleball Club
Toronto United Pickleball Club is undergoing a major roster rebuild for 2025, keeping only captain Matthew Kawamoto. The team will fill five roster spots through the CNPL Draft on April 2, with top players being scouted in qualifier events. The club aims to return to championship form after a disappointing 2024 season.
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