Groundhog in the Kitchen Tournament: The “Groundhog in the Kitchen” Pickleball Tournament is set to take place from January 31 to February 2, 2025, at Players Courtyard Pickleball Club in Moorestown, New Jersey. Known for being one of the newest and largest indoor pickleball facilities in the Northeast, Players Courtyard is the perfect venue for this highly anticipated event. Players can look forward to a weekend of competitive action in a state-of-the-art, climate-controlled environment, while also benefiting from the club’s ample space and premier amenities.
Tournament Format and Registration Details
The tournament will feature a variety of skill and age-based brackets, ranging from 3.0 to 5.0+ skill levels, and age divisions from 9-49 and 50+. Participants will compete in singles, doubles, and mixed doubles events. Registration is set at $70 per player, which includes a tournament shirt and medals for winners. Additional event entries are priced at $20 for amateur skill/age events and $40 for 5.0+ events. All registration must be completed by January 27, 2025.
Players registering with a partner will need both players to complete their registration by the deadline to secure a spot. Payments for registration can be made online via Stripe, and payment completion is required by January 1, 2025. For any questions, the tournament director can be reached at [email protected] or via text at +1 (908) 800-3616.
Tournament Rules and Structure
This year’s tournament will adhere to USA Pickleball’s official rules, offering a structured and fair competitive environment for all participants. A round-robin format will be used for all events, except for the open divisions, which will utilize a double-elimination format. For round-robin pool play, matches will be played to either 11 or 15 points, requiring a win by at least 2 points. Playoff and medal rounds will also follow the round-robin format, with gold medal matches in open divisions being best 2 out of 3 games to 11 points.
For 5.0+ open events, the bronze medal match will follow a best 2 out of 3 format, with a prize pool funded by the $40 per player entry fee. Payouts will be divided as follows: 55% to the gold medalists, 30% to the silver, and 15% to the bronze. However, non-open divisions, such as the Split Age Open or Skinny Singles Open, will not have prize money.
Player Guidelines and Age Divisions
Participants must compete at or above the skill level of the higher-rated player in their partnership. If a player is unrated, they may be moved to a higher bracket if the organizers deem it appropriate. In age divisions, the younger player’s age determines the bracket. The tournament will also offer a Split-Age Open event, which is a round-robin format with a non-cash prize. The flexibility in division merging ensures that the event is organized smoothly, even if there are fewer participants in some divisions.
Cancellation, Refunds, and Prize Money
Refunds for registration fees will not be offered after December 30, 2024. A $10 withdrawal fee will be applied to any player who withdraws before the deadline. Players should also be aware that the tournament’s prize pool for 5.0+ open divisions will depend on the number of registered players. This ensures that the prize distribution is proportionate to the participation levels in each event.
As for the tournament schedule, players can expect it to be adjusted as needed to ensure fairness and maintain smooth operations. The tournament’s adaptable format aims to create a balanced experience for all participants, from beginners to the most advanced players.
A Premier Pickleball Experience
The “Groundhog in the Kitchen” tournament at Players Courtyard Pickleball Club promises to offer a top-tier pickleball experience with both competitive play and community engagement. With expert-level facilities, flexible divisions, and a structured yet dynamic format, it is shaping up to be an event worth attending for players across the region. Those interested in joining the action are encouraged to register early and prepare for a weekend of intense competition and fun.
News in Brief: Groundhog in the Kitchen Tournament
The “Groundhog in the Kitchen” Pickleball Tournament will be held from January 31 to February 2, 2025, at Players Courtyard Pickleball Club in Moorestown, NJ. The event features skill and age divisions (3.0-5.0+, ages 9-49 and 50+), with singles, doubles, and mixed doubles competitions. Registration is $70 per player, with additional fees for certain events. USA Pickleball rules will be followed, and prize money is available for 5.0+ open divisions. Registration closes January 27, 2025, and payments are due by January 1.
