Amateur Pickleball Players National Pathway: Top amateur pickleball players across the U.S. now have a direct path to a national championship. The Dink Minor League Pickleball has partnered with State Pro Leagues and the National Junior Pickleball Tour. This partnership allows top players to qualify for The Dink Minor League Pickleball National Championship in Dallas this December.
Players can now compete for a national title without leaving their state or quitting their day jobs.
Clear Path to Nationals
Athletes competing in official State Pro Leagues can now qualify for the DUPR 22 division at the national event. High-performing players from each league will automatically move forward to compete against other top teams in the country.
Leagues can also enter teams into the DUPR 20 division, opening doors for even more players. Each match will count toward players’ DUPR ratings, which track their progress and increase their visibility.
Leagues Already in the System
Several leagues are already signed on and ready to compete for a spot at nationals.
All Florida Pro League (AFPL)
The Florida league features teams like the Miami Blaze, Sarasota Manatees, and Fort Myers Flamingos. These teams will compete in a seven-week tour at top courts around the state.
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Wichita Premier Pickleball League (WPPL)
Based in Kansas, this league puts a focus on both player growth and building community excitement.
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Oklahoma Premier Pickleball League (OPPL)
Entering its second year, the Oklahoma league includes six teams, quick match formats, and streamed games. All ratings are tracked through DUPR.
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The Michigan Pickleball League
This league includes five energetic teams: the Detroit Vipers, Lansing Loons, Grand Rapids Rampage, Ann Arbor Arctics, and Flint Tropics.
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Young Players Get a Chance Too
The National Junior Pickleball Tour will also send players to nationals. Juniors can qualify for the DUPR 18 or 20 divisions by competing in the Team Elite Division (DUPR 18+) at the National Junior Pickleball Championship Cup, which takes place from October 16–19 in Arizona.
Teams in this division will also have a chance to win part of a $4,000 prize.
A Big Step for Local Leagues
State Pro Leagues have become more popular for offering a pro-like experience without the pressure of constant travel. Players wear team uniforms, join drafted rosters, and compete in front of local fans.
Now that these leagues connect directly to The Dink Minor League Pickleball, local players have a real shot at national glory.
Anyone running a pro league can apply to become part of this growing network.
News in Brief: Amateur Pickleball Players National Pathway
The Dink Minor League Pickleball has teamed up with State Pro Leagues and the National Junior Pickleball Tour to give top players a chance to compete at the national level. The new pathway leads to the December national championship in Dallas. Both adult and junior players now have more ways to qualify.
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