What Happened to PPA and MLP Events in Seattle: Despite a successful event last year, recent discussions on Reddit have illuminated the reasons behind the cancellation of the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Major League Pickleball (MLP) events in Seattle. Users have shared various perspectives and insights into the situation.
One prominent issue is the lack of appropriate venues for large pickup tournaments in Seattle. Converting tennis courts or setting up temporary pickleball courts involves significant expenses. The Parks Department swiftly repainted the permanent pickleball courts for tennis use after last year’s event, indicating to larger tournaments that they are not welcome.
Several users pointed out that Seattle seems to favor tennis over pickup. This preference has led to the protection of tennis courts at the expense of developing facilities for pickleball, creating a barrier for hosting significant events like the PPA or APP tournaments.
Some users noted that both PPA and MLP had planned events in Seattle for this summer but subsequently relocated them. The PPA event was moved to Las Vegas, which has caused frustration among local players who feel that Washington State is being overlooked for major pickleball events.
The pickleball community expresses disappointment and a sense of undervaluation towards local authorities. The lack of permanent and suitable venues, coupled with the city’s protective stance towards tennis courts, has made it difficult to sustain large-scale pickleball events in Seattle. As a result, until there are dedicated facilities with 24-48 permanent or adaptable courts, it seems unlikely that major pickleball tournaments will return to the Seattle area. The community remains hopeful for better support and infrastructure to accommodate the sport’s growing popularity.
News in Brief: What Happened to PPA and MLP Events in Seattle
Recent Reddit discussions reveal why the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Major League Pickleball (MLP) canceled their Seattle events. Despite a successful event last year, Seattle lacks appropriate venues for large tournaments, and converting tennis courts is costly. After last year’s event, the Parks Department repainted pickleball courts for tennis use, signaling a lack of support. Seattle’s preference for tennis has hindered the development of pickleball facilities. The PPA event was moved to Las Vegas, frustrating local players. Without dedicated facilities, major pickleball tournaments are unlikely to return to Seattle, though the community remains hopeful for better support.
