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The Dink Minor League Pickleball National Championships: A Showcase of Amateur Talent

In an exhilarating announcement for pickleball enthusiasts, The Dink has partnered with DUPR to host the Dink Minor League Pickleball National Championships from December 13-15, 2024, at the Missouri Pickleball Club. This event is set to be a thrilling showdown featuring the nation’s premier amateur pickleball players.

The Path to the Championships

Over the past year, more than 11,000 amateur players have participated in over 135 events across domestic and international arenas, all aiming for a chance to compete in this prestigious championship. From this pool, 500 talented players have earned their spot to clash for the title, adding significant excitement to the tournament structure.

With a prize pool of $50,000, the tournament promises to deliver the largest payout in the history of The Dink MiLP, marking it as the second-largest in the sphere of amateur pickleball competitions. The champions in the DUPR 22 division will not only secure a substantial cash prize but also an all-expenses-paid trip to Dubai to compete in the Pickleball World Series come 2025.

A Thriving Community of Players

The Dink Minor League Pickleball circuit has seen remarkable growth, with event participation surging by over 300% in both 2023 and 2024. The competition has expanded its reach, hosting events in countries such as Canada, Australia, Mexico, India, China, and the UAE. The numerous local competitions serve as a foundation for the National Pathway, leading up to seven regional playoffs and culminating in the national championship.

Notable players aspiring for professional careers have used this platform to launch their journeys, including some touring professionals like Connor Garnett, Kate Fahey, and Kaitlyn Christian. The Dink MiLP is primarily tailored to cater to amateur players, featuring diverse divisions aimed at both beginners and advanced competitors.

Event Format and Structure

The competition will see teams divided into six pools, categorized by their collective DUPR ratings, which range from 12 to 22. Each participating team will engage in a series of matches including women’s doubles, men’s doubles, and two mixed doubles games, conducted in a round-robin format. In the event of a tie, the teams will engage in a unique tiebreaker known as the Dreambreaker, a fast-paced singles challenge where players swap every four points.

The ultimate winners of the DUPR 22 bracket will take home $3,500 in prize money, alongside bonuses for each event they participate in, further incentivizing their performance at this high-stakes championship.

Excitement Ahead for Spectators

The Dink’s commitment to elevating amateur pickleball is unwavering, and this championship event is a testament to that mission. Spectators wishing to catch all the action can either attend in person at the Missouri Pickleball Club or follow the live broadcasts via The Dink’s YouTube channel.

Conclusion

Thomas Shields, CEO of The Dink, expressed enthusiasm about collaborating with DUPR. He stated, “The drive these players and teams have to claim the title of the top amateurs in the country is out of this world. There really is nothing else like it!” Tito Machado, CEO of DUPR, added his sentiments on the electrifying nature of the league and pledged anticipation for the emerging champion this year.

For those eager to join the electrifying atmosphere of pickleball, this championship promises not just competitive spirit but also a celebration of talent, community, and passion for the game.

For more information on the event and player participation, visit The Dink.