Vermont Pickleball Tournament 2024: The Stratton Open, a rising star in the world of pickleball tournaments, is back for its second year. This event, taking place from August 2nd to August 4th, 2024, promises to be bigger and better, setting the stage at Vermont’s largest outdoor pickleball center: the Stratton Mountain Training and Fitness Center.
A Gateway to the UPA World Championships
The 2024 Stratton Open is more than just a tournament; it serves as the Vermont State qualifier for the UPA World Championships. This qualifier status means that certain divisions at the Open will also function as prize money divisions, adding an extra layer of competition and excitement. Winners in these divisions will not only gain prestige but also secure their place in the UPA World Championships, scheduled for November 4th to 10th in Dallas, Texas.
The Venue: Stratton Mountain Training and Fitness Center
Located at 10 Arbor Road, Stratton Mountain, Vermont, the Stratton Mountain Training and Fitness Center boasts 16 courts, both permanent and portable, with surfaces made of asphalt. This facility, nestled in the picturesque Stratton Mountain Resort, provides an ideal setting for a high-caliber pickleball competition. The venue’s combination of indoor and outdoor play areas ensures that participants experience the sport in a versatile and dynamic environment.
Stratton Open Tournament Schedule
The Stratton Open is set to host a variety of divisions over its three-day span:
- Friday, August 2nd: Men’s Singles and Women’s Singles
- Saturday, August 3rd: Women’s Doubles and Men’s Doubles
- Sunday, August 4th: Mixed Doubles
Champion’s Division and UPA World Championship Qualification
Participants who win gold in their skill level at the state championship level are granted a complimentary event fee to the UPA World Championships in Dallas. This incentive highlights the significance of the Champions Division, bringing together top-tier competitors to vie for national glory.
Skill Levels and Age Groups
The tournament offers a comprehensive range of skill levels from 3.0 to 5.0 and age groups including 18U, 19+, 35+, 50+, 60+, and 70+. This diverse array ensures that players across different age brackets and skill sets can find their place in the competition.
Tournament Format
The format for doubles brackets will be round-robin, with game lengths varying based on the number of teams:
- Brackets with 3 or 4 teams: Double round robin to 15 points.
- Brackets with 5 teams: Single round robin to 15 points.
- Brackets with 6, 7, or 8 teams: Single round robin to 11 points.
All singles brackets will be single elimination. Brackets are first formed by skill level, then by age, with the Tournament Director holding the authority to merge brackets to ensure meaningful play. This flexibility allows the tournament to adapt to the number of participants and external conditions, such as weather.
Registration and Fees
Registration for the Stratton Open is priced at $70.00, and it includes a souvenir tournament t-shirt. Additional events, such as mixed doubles, can be added for an extra fee. Registration is open from May 6, 2024, 8:00 AM to July 31, 2024, 5:00 PM Eastern Time.
Prize Money and Medals
Prize money will be awarded to winners in divisions 4.0 and above, provided there are at least six entries per division. Winners are required to submit a W-9 form to receive their prize money. Medals will be awarded in merged age brackets if necessary, ensuring that all top performers are recognized.
Other Notes and Venue Information
The Stratton Open is an outdoor tournament with no backup dates, meaning weather could impact the schedule. In the event of a complete cancellation due to weather, refunds will be issued. The venue has ample parking with direct access to the facility, making it convenient for participants and spectators alike.
As the Stratton Open returns for its second year, it continues to establish itself as a significant event in the pickleball calendar. With its role as a state qualifier for the UPA World Championships and the promise of prize money, the tournament not only offers intense competition but also serves as a stepping stone for players aiming for national recognition. This three-day event at the beautiful Stratton Mountain Resort is set to be a highlight in the pickleball season, attracting players and fans from all over.
News in Brief: Vermont Pickleball Tournament 2024
The Stratton Open, Vermont’s premier pickleball tournament, returns from August 2-4, 2024, at the Stratton Mountain Training and Fitness Center. This event serves as the Vermont State qualifier for the UPA World Championships, featuring divisions with prize money and opportunities for winners to advance to the national competition in Dallas.
The tournament offers various skill levels and age groups, ensuring inclusive and competitive play. Registration is open until July 31, 2024, with a $70 fee that includes a souvenir t-shirt.
Also Read: Cascade to Host Series of Free Pickleball Clinics Perfect for All Ages Above 13
