National Junior Pickleball: In the rising sport of pickleball, one organization is making significant strides to ensure the sport’s youngest enthusiasts have a place to shine. National Junior Pickleball (NJP), founded by Courtney Loughridge, is dedicated to nurturing the junior pickleball community, providing a platform for players aged 8-18 to compete, grow, and connect.
The Visionary Behind NJP
Courtney Loughridge’s journey to founding NJP is a testament to her commitment to youth sports. Frustrated by the lack of tournament opportunities for her son, Jack, and her daughter, Lily, Loughridge recognized a gap in the pickleball landscape. Jack, an avid player, often found himself competing against adults, while Lily, a competitive swimmer with a casual interest in pickleball, had no avenue to play with peers.
Drawing on her extensive background in community programming and non-profit development, Loughridge created NJP. Her mission was clear: to build a supportive community where young players, from beginners to advanced, could compete in a friendly environment and share their love for the game.
Building a Supportive Community
NJP’s mission is to ignite young players’ passion for pickleball through a supportive tournament format and inclusive environment, allowing them to thrive both on and off the court. The vision extends beyond mere competition; it aims to bring joy, growth, and connection to youth across the nation, fostering teamwork and empowering every child to reach their potential. NJP’s core values of integrity, community, and passion encourage junior athletes to pursue their dreams with dedication and heart.
Inclusive and Comprehensive Tournaments
NJP’s tournaments are a reflection of its inclusive philosophy. Juniors from diverse backgrounds and regions come together to form a vibrant community of young athletes. The organization emphasizes that every junior player deserves a chance to compete against peers of similar age and skill level. Whether it’s a player’s first tournament or they are a seasoned competitor, NJP guarantees an unforgettable experience filled with friendship, competition and plenty of pickleball action.
All-Inclusive Registration
One of NJP’s standout features is its all-inclusive registration model. For a flat fee, participants gain access to a Skills Clinic and evaluation, singles, doubles, and a four-player team competition. This comprehensive approach ensures that every junior has the opportunity to experience multiple aspects of the sport. Players can withdraw from any event they cannot participate in, but attendance at all events is highly encouraged to maximize the tournament weekend’s benefits.
Age and Skill Divisions
NJP’s tournaments cater to various age and skill levels, with divisions including 12U, 14U, and 18U, and skill levels ranging from beginner to advanced. Each competition features round-robin pool play followed by a medal-round playoff, guaranteeing ample playtime and challenging matches that help players grow and build confidence.
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The Extras: Swag, Snacks, and Socializing
Beyond the competition, NJP ensures a memorable experience with over $40 worth of swag from sponsors, including a cool NJP t-shirt, snacks, medals, prizes, and extra court time for juniors and families to play and socialize. This focus on community and enjoyment shows NJP’s commitment to fostering a positive environment for young players.
Forming Partnerships and Building Friendships
One of the unique aspects of NJP’s events is the opportunity for players to meet and get to know each other before forming partnerships or teams. Players can sign up with or without a doubles partner or team and will have the chance to interact and play together on Thursday and Friday. This approach not only facilitates competition but also encourages the development of lasting friendships and connections within the pickleball community.
Backing from Esteemed Sponsors
NJP’s initiatives are made possible through the generous support of its sponsors and partners. Esteemed organizations such as DUPR Juniors, The Dink, Pickleball Superstore, Franklin, and Pickleball Nonstop have joined forces with NJP to foster the growth and development of junior pickleball. Their backing ensures that NJP can provide top-notch events, equipment, and experiences for young athletes.
A Lasting Impact
NJP’s impact extends far beyond the court. By creating an environment where juniors feel supported and included, NJP helps to cultivate a love for pickleball that can last a lifetime. The friendships and connections made at NJP events often continue well beyond the tournaments, providing young athletes with a supportive network as they pursue their passion for the sport.
In the world of junior pickleball, NJP stands out as a beacon of inclusivity, opportunity, and community. Thanks to Courtney Loughridge’s vision and dedication, young pickleball players across the nation now have a place to compete, grow, and thrive.
News in Brief: National Junior Pickleball
National Junior Pickleball (NJP), founded by Courtney Loughridge, provides young players aged 8-18 with competitive and supportive environments to thrive. Frustrated by the lack of opportunities for her children, Loughridge created NJP to offer inclusive tournaments and foster community among junior players.
NJP’s all-inclusive registration ensures access to various competitions and events, promoting friendship and growth. Supported by esteemed sponsors, NJP aims to instill a lifelong love for pickleball in young athletes across the nation.
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