Canadian National Pickleball League World Cup Team: The Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL) will have a strong presence at the 2025 Pickleball World Cup in Fort Lauderdale. Team Canada will feature several current and former CNPL players, along with league staff and coaches, showing the league’s growing influence on the international stage.
Leadership and Staff Driving Team Canada
Key leaders from the CNPL will play important roles in guiding Team Canada. General Manager Yui See Lau, co-founder and creative director of CNPL, will help lead operations. Co-founder and commissioner Mike McAninch, who serves on the Player Selection Committee, is also involved in the team’s leadership.
Other CNPL figures joining the staff include Team Operations Director Ricky Liorti, owner and general manager of Toronto United, and Team Personnel Director and Assistant Coach Bret Shepley, owner and general manager of the Southwestern Ontario Brewers.
Assistant Coach for the Open and Senior Teams, Kaytlynn Soroka, who is also head coach of the Prairie Pronghorns, will contribute her coaching skills. Carolina Hack, a player for the Prairie Pronghorns, will serve as Assistant Coach for the Youth U16 Team. Media Relations will be managed by Jason Whyte, CNPL broadcaster and owner of the Northern Lights.
CNPL Athletes Competing for Canada
Many athletes from the CNPL family earned spots on Team Canada.
| Category | Athlete | Current Team | Former Team(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Open Team | Kyle Hermetz | Southwestern Ontario Brewers | – |
| Open Team | Mikaël Gaumond | Prairie Pronghorns | Southwestern Ontario Brewers |
| Open Team | Caelan Sampson | Vancouver Owls | – |
| Open Team | Mike McCaffrey | – | Prairie Pronghorns |
| Open Team | Chris Alain | Prairie Pronghorns | Toronto United, East Toronto Smash |
| Open Team | Anna Dyachenko | Vancouver Owls | – |
| Open Team | Jada Bui | Toronto United | – |
| Open Team | Tara Di Giuseppe | Southwestern Ontario Brewers | Northern Rollers |
| Open Team | Carolina Hack | Prairie Pronghorns | Toronto United |
| Open Team | Casey Rodgers | – | Rush, Northern Rollers |
| Senior Team | Corey Osborne | – | Elmvale, ON (hometown listed) |
| Senior Team | Rob Krizmanich | – | Toronto, ON (hometown listed) |
A Collective Effort for Canadian Pickleball
The CNPL highlighted that this achievement reflects not just the athletes but the entire league community, including staff, owners, volunteers, and fans.
“Whether you helped build the league, guided a club, starred in a match, or cheered from the stands, your contribution matters. The dream of seeing Canada atop the pickleball world podium is fueled by every practice, every match, every handshake, and every leap of faith taken for the sport.”
“From everyone at the CNPL, to every player, staff member, coach, owner, volunteer, and supporter—thank you. You are helping to write this new chapter for Canadian pickleball, and together, you’ve already made history.”
Significance and Next Steps
The participation of CNPL leaders and athletes in the Pickleball World Cup reflects the league’s growing impact on the sport, both in Canada and abroad. Their involvement in playing, coaching, and management highlights how Canadian pickleball is building a strong foundation for international success.
With experienced leaders, rising athletes, and loyal supporters, Team Canada enters the 2025 Pickleball World Cup with momentum and unity. Fans across the country are encouraged to rally behind the team as it pursues the goal of reaching the podium in Fort Lauderdale.
News in Brief: Canadian National Pickleball League World Cup Team
The Canadian National Pickleball League will have major representation at the 2025 Pickleball World Cup in Fort Lauderdale. Players, coaches, and staff from the league will join Team Canada, showcasing the league’s influence and unity. Athletes from CNPL clubs and alumni will compete, with leaders guiding the team both on and off the court.