The National Pickleball League (NPL) just announced that their 2023 league play events will be officially sanctioned by USA Pickleball (USAP). NPL is the premier pickleball league for Champions Pros (Age 50+) and the new partnership further proves their commitment to bringing the highest level of standards and quality to the brand-new team competition format for pickleball’s senior pros.
USAP is considered to be the primary governing body for pickleball within the nation, and has brought their expertise in the rules of the game to the sport’s professional level for many years. They officially sanction APP Tour tournaments, one of pro pickleball’s biggest platforms, as well as several PPA Tour events.
Having USAP sanction NPL events brings a heightened sense of credibility within the league, which hopes to prove itself within its inaugural year. In the recent press release announcement, NPL Co-Founder Michael Chen stated that he believes USAP sanctioning is vital to establishing their league which hopes to platform the sport’s senior pros.
“The sanctioning of NPL Pickleball by USA Pickleball brings unparalleled legitimacy and credibility to our league. We are honored to have this important stamp of approval from USA Pickleball, a renowned organization that has played a pivotal role in advancing the sport. This partnership solidifies NPL Pickleball’s position as a premier destination for pickleball enthusiasts, and we are immensely proud to be associated with USA Pickleball.”
Michael Chen, NPL Co-Founder
The partnership will give the NPL the tools it needs to provide the best experience possible for its players while also encouraging the growth of the sport as a whole. The USAP’s seal of approval has elevated amateur and pro tours by ensuring that rules are upheld and that tournaments are ran in the best way possible.
Leading up to the league’s first tournament, which starts next Saturday, June 3rd, the NPL has already seen overwhelming support from its players at the Draft Combine and Player Draft events. Following the combine, where players were able to meet with team owners and showcase their skills, 108 of pickleball’s best senior players were drafted to each of the league’s six teams for 2023.
Justin Maloof, Chief Operating Officer of USA Pickleball, sees the potential that the NPL has in making a difference in the sport of pickleball.
“This is an exciting milestone for the sport, and one that I am confident will further elevate pickleball to new heights. We look forward to working closely with NPL Pickleball to ensure a successful and memorable season, and we are eager to kick off the action in early June.”
Justin Maloof, COO of USA Pickleball
The NPL heads down to the Chicken N Pickle in Dallas, Texas next weekend for its first-ever tournament. Each team will participate in four rounds of matches during each of the six regular-season events, leading up to a huge Championship Weekend in mid-October.
With USAP sanctioning, the NPL’s first weekend is sure to be a success, both in showcasing high-level pickleball competition and the incredible camaraderie that has already grown within the NPL organization. Visit the NPL’s website for more information about the league, and stay tuned here at Pickleball Union for more NPL tournament coverage!
