Evansville PPA Challenger Series: In 2025, Evansville will host one of the 16 stops on the inaugural Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Challenger Series, marking a significant milestone for the city’s sports scene. The pickleball tournament is scheduled for September 19–21, 2025, at Wesselman Park, and aims to create a clear path for emerging players to enter the Carvana PPA Tour, offering a platform for individuals of all ages and skill levels to compete alongside seasoned professionals.
Building on Local Momentum
Evansville is no stranger to pickleball, with previous local tournaments drawing solid crowds. Aaron King, sports sales lead for Explore Evansville, emphasized the city’s goal to build on this momentum.
“We had a couple of local [pickleball] tournaments that were pretty well attended, so we just want to keep building on the momentum.” – (Aaron King)
This tournament will be a key part of the city’s strategy to boost sports tourism, with an eye toward fostering both youth and professional sports in the region. King also shared his hope for future growth.
“I think it’ll be a great highlight for our region going forward in terms of sports tourism…this is certainly a part of our strategy to grow not only youth, but pro and even amateur sports in our area.” – (Aaron King)
“We’re hoping this will be an opportunity for us to grow and look at some even bigger pickleball tournaments down the road, potentially some pro tournaments.” – (Aaron King)
He believes that by hosting the prestigious PPA event, the city can elevate its reputation and attract more major events in the future, benefiting from the exposure and reputation the PPA brand brings.
“Having the PPA brand into our city, I think will really elevate and highlight our courts and our facility here. It’s a big win for our community.” – (Aaron King)
Wesselman Park’s New Courts Ready for Action
Wesselman Park is preparing to host its largest pickleball tournament to date. With 16 newly constructed pickleball courts, the facility is set to accommodate the influx of participants and spectators.
Adjacent tennis courts can also be converted to accommodate additional play, ensuring ample space for the expected crowds.
A Festival Atmosphere for Fans and Players
PPA and Explore Evansville are committed to ensuring an unforgettable experience for players and fans.
“We want to have things that entertain people also while they’re there, from food trucks to some entertainment to maybe some music. There are lots of things that we have that we want to do to make sure that this is a really fun and exciting tournament.” – (Kate Reibel, Explore Evansville director of marketing and development)
The event will also benefit from the PPA’s expertise in creating an exciting atmosphere, with high-speed matches that promise to keep fans engaged.
“PPA comes with all their own tricks as well… it] is so fast paced when you’re watching these games, and so that makes it fun for anybody, whether you know what’s going on in the game or you don’t.” – (Kate Reibel)
News in Brief: Evansville PPA Challenger Series
Evansville will host the PPA Challenger Series at Wesselman Park from September 19–21, 2025, marking a significant event for the city’s growing pickleball scene.
The tournament aims to create opportunities for aspiring professionals and players of all skill levels, boosting sports tourism and offering the potential for larger pickleball events in the future. With 16 newly constructed courts and plans for entertainment, the event is set to be a major draw for fans and participants.
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