Major League Pickleball, DUPR Team Up to Launch Minor League Pickleball

The MiLP begins in September.

David Tucker\News-Journal / USA TODAY

Major League Pickleball (MLP) and Dynastic Universal Pickleball Rating (DUPR) are launching several amateur pickleball events under the branding and format of minor league pickleball (MiLP).

The first event will take place in September during MLP Virginia Beach. Registered amateur pickleball players will have the opportunity to play in the same competition as professional pickleball players. The amateur competitors will be separated into playing groups based on their DUPR rankings

“This partnership between MLP and DUPR is an incredibly valuable component of the MiLP at MLP amateur events launch,” said MLP CEO Bruce Popko. “We can’t think of a better way to bring Major League Pickleball’s thrilling coed team format to amateur players, who will be able to play alongside MLP’s exhilarating and fan-friendly pro events.”

The winners of the events will qualify for the 2024 Minor League Pickleball National Championship, where there will be $50,000 in prize money up for grabs between the six divisions of play.

“DUPR, MLP, and MiLP are joining forces to deliver the best pickleball experiences for players of all levels,” said DUPR CEO Tito Machado. “MLP's professional events are known for their electric atmosphere for players and fans, and now we are excited to offer amateur players across the country the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to compete like pros in their regions and advance towards a national championship."

Prior to MLP Virginia Beach, there are three upcoming events in Salt Lake City, Utah, Kansas City Missouri, and New York, New York.