So, you’re thinking about joining your first pickleball tournament but are unsure if you’re ready? The short answer is: if you know where to stand on the court and can keep score, it’s probably time! You might be tempted to wait until you feel perfectly ready—but let’s face it, we’re rarely as ready as we think. Think of it like having kids: if everyone waited until they felt completely prepared, there’d be no kids (and, therefore, no one to beat at video games like Call of Duty!). The key is just jumping in and learning as you go.
Signing up for your first tournament is less about being the best player on the court and more about putting yourself out there to learn and improve. Whether you’re itching to test your skills, get in better shape, or simply satisfy the wishes of a partner who thinks it’d be fun, participating in a tournament can be a rewarding experience. Think of it as a test—a way to evaluate where you are in your pickleball journey.
Why Tournaments Are Different from Rec Play
A pickleball tournament isn’t like the casual matches you play at your local club. In tournaments, you’ll experience pressure, intensity, and the thrill of competition—all things that recreational games might not fully prepare you for. And sure, there’s the challenge of making it through an entire day of games, with no guarantee that you’ll have time for a quick taco break. But that’s all part of the fun.
What makes tournaments so valuable is the feedback you receive from every game and every opponent. If you lose in the first two rounds, it doesn’t mean you’re not cut out for tournaments—it could be that you signed up for the wrong skill level, your play style clashed with your opponent’s, or you just need to work on consistency under pressure.
Remember, your toughest opponents are your best teachers. Each loss reveals something you can work on, making tournaments the ultimate proving ground for improvement.
Which Division Should You Enter?


The big question for first-time tournament players is often: which level should I sign up for? Most pickleball tournaments have skill divisions, typically starting at 2.5 or 3.0 and going up to 5.0. It’s generally recommended that beginners sign up for a 3.0 or even a 2.5 level if it’s available, especially if you’ve only been playing for a few weeks.
Here’s some advice from players who’ve been there:
- Start at 3.0 or Lower: If it’s your first time, start at 3.0. Players at this level are better than you might expect, especially compared to open play. Many players agree that the competition at 3.0 is a good mix of challenging and accessible, providing you with the perfect environment to learn and grow. Some suggest even trying 2.5 if you can find a tournament offering it.
- Avoid Overestimating Your Skill Level: Don’t rush into higher divisions like 4.0 or above, unless you come from a strong tennis or ping-pong background. Tournament play is much tougher than casual games, and players at higher levels are adept at strategies like “dinking” and placing their shots precisely. Starting too high can lead to a tough experience where you might end up getting targeted by more experienced opponents.
- Learn from Experience: Many players say that starting at a lower level and moving up is the best approach. Get comfortable, build confidence, and once you start winning games, move up to 3.5 or even 4.0.
Preparing for Your First Tournament
You’ve decided to sign up—awesome! Now, how do you get ready?
Professional pickleball player Tyler Loong shares a few key tips for first-timers:
- Do Your Research: Check the tournament’s website for important information like start times, locations, and the competition format. Understanding how the day will go can help ease your nerves and keep you prepared.
- Know Your Opponents: If possible, see who’s playing in your division. Understanding your competition helps you know what to expect and gauge how challenging the matches could be.
- Take Care of Your Nutrition: Tournament days can be long, often played in hot, humid environments. It’s essential to start hydrating and eating well at least a day or two before the tournament—not just the morning of. Being well-nourished for pickleball can make a huge difference in your stamina and performance.
*Be sure to check out our full guide to tournament prep, complete with a checklist and tips on what to expect. It’ll get you game-ready!
Embrace the Learning Experience
The most important mindset to have going into your first pickleball tournament is to treat it as a learning experience. It’s not about winning every match or walking away with a gold medal—it’s about testing your skills, seeing where you stand, and having a blast while doing it.
The best way to improve is by playing against those who are better than you. So, find a supportive partner, sign up for that first tournament, and dive in. You’ll learn a lot, improve your game, and, most importantly, have a great time. 🏓