Michigan’s First Pro Pickleball League: Michigan has a new professional pickleball league, thanks to Chris Walker of Milford. Walker, a Brighton native and former tennis player, founded the Michigan Pickleball League, the state’s first professional team-based pickleball league. The league features five teams competing for a $10,000 prize, the largest in Michigan pickleball history.
A New Era for Pickleball in Michigan
Walker, who started playing pickleball three years ago, quickly fell in love with the sport. “It was pretty fun,” he said, but once he met more advanced players, he realized how competitive it could be. He began entering tournaments and eventually turned pro, even earning a bronze medal on the Canadian pro tour. Wanting to grow the sport further, he decided to launch the Michigan Pickleball League.
The league consists of five teams: the Ann Arbor Arctics, Detroit Vipers, Flint Tropics, Grand Rapids Rampage, and Lansing Loons. Each team has four players—two men and two women—and competes in a high-energy format. Matches include men’s and women’s doubles, two mixed doubles games, and a singles showdown if needed.
Fast Growth of Pickleball and the League
Pickleball, a mix of tennis and ping-pong, has been the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. for the past five years. Walker noted the sport’s appeal across age groups, saying, “It transcends age and gender. I could play with my parents or younger kids, and everyone can just get together on the court and have fun. Even a first-timer would be able to play within a few minutes.”
The pickleball community is known for being welcoming and social. Walker plays at the Brighton Pickleball Club and other locations in Warren. Just a year ago, Michigan had few dedicated pickleball venues, but now, clubs are opening in Plymouth, Northville, and Brighton.
Competitive Matches and Future Goals
The league’s matches are held at the Brighton Pickleball Club, with the next event on April 19 at 1 p.m. Games will take place at 1, 3, 5, and 7 p.m., and the top four teams will advance to the playoffs in June.
Walker emphasized the excitement of the competition. “Every point matters,” he said. “It brings a high-energy level to the sport and for fans to watch.” He encourages spectators to be loud and engaged. “These are not little golf claps. We want people to be rowdy, bring noisemakers, and cheer when players score.”
Walker hopes to expand the league further and welcomes sponsorships. All matches are free and open to the public, providing an opportunity for more people to experience professional pickleball up close.
News in Brief: Michigan’s First Pro Pickleball League
Chris Walker of Milford launched Michigan’s first pro pickleball league, featuring five teams and a $10,000 prize. Matches are played at the Brighton Pickleball Club, with the next event on April 19. Walker hopes to grow the league, and games are free for spectators, encouraging loud and energetic fan participation.
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