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Junior Pickleball Set to Break New Records in 2025

by The Dink Media Team on

As 2024 comes to a close, it’s clear that National Junior Pickleball (NJP) has become a driving force in growing the next generation of pickleball players.

The tour served over 600 juniors from 29 states and Canada in 2024, a number expected to grow significantly in 2025. The most recent NJP Las Vegas Regional featured 126 players, making it the largest juniors-only tournament in NJP history.

The NJP positions itself as more than just a series of tournaments. They focus on building sportsmanship in their players, developing innovative programming, and finding meaningful ways to give back to the community. Tournament balls, for instance, were donated to Special Olympics programs and underserved youth initiatives across the country.

From Beginners to Champions

Something really special about the junior tour is watching the development of talent as the kids grow.

Ari Chandra and Natalia Simson—once first-time NJP participants—became Junior PPA champions.

Jace Morris, Wil Shaffer, and Chloe Igleski — all past NJP players advanced to the pro main draw of the PPA. Morris and Shaffer played on Center Court against Jack Sock and Collin Shick!

More than Just Pickleball

This year, NJP introduced opportunities to build skills beyond pickleball with initiatives like youth reporter training, referee certification, and leadership opportunities. One parent shared:

“My 8-year-old boy led his team, taking on tough roles and negotiating lineups. It’s an experience that will benefit him for years to come.”
National Junior Pickleball -- Where Young Athletes Can Shine
National Junior Pickleball (NJP) provides kids aged 8-18 an opportunity to play in pickleball tournaments against other kids their age. Read more about this fantastic organization and how you can get involved.

2025: Bigger Tournaments, Bigger Opportunities

NJP is set to make 2025 its biggest year yet, with expanded tournaments, incredible prizes, and new ways to grow the sport for juniors and families alike. Here’s what to expect:

Expanded Tournament Schedule

  • 10 Regional Tournaments in states like California, Nevada, North Carolina, and Florida, plus two more to be announced.
  • 15 Local Doubles Tournaments in states like Arizona, Texas, and Michigan.
  • Anticipated attendance: 2,500 juniors and 5,000 spectators.

Player Divisions

Open to players aged 8-18 across skill levels (15% beginner, 40% intermediate, 45% advanced), NJP fosters an inclusive environment where everyone can compete and grow.

Gold medalists in the advanced division win a JOOLA 3S Paddle and free entry to the NJP Championship Cup, silver receives a pair of Skechers footwear, and bronze takes home a PRIME Backpack and a 6-pack of drinks.

Every registered player will get a swag bag featuring a MyPadl band, JOOLA hat, Skechers gear, and more.

See the 2025 Schedule Here

Why NJP Matters

NJP is about more than just pickleball; it’s about building a foundation of sportsmanship, integrity, and community.

Whether it’s players gaining confidence in their first tournament, families bonding on and off the court, or young athletes finding their passion and voice, NJP is shaping the future of the sport in meaningful ways.

As one family shared:

“The NJP tournaments we’ve attended have been highlights of the year for our entire family. We came in looking to play pickleball and left with a sense of community and lifelong friendships.”

With an incredible 2025 season ahead, NJP continues to inspire, innovate, and grow the next generation of pickleball players. Join the movement, and let’s make 2025 the best year yet for junior pickleball!

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The Dink Media Team

The Dink Media Team

The team behind The Dink, pickleball's original multi-channel media company, now publishing daily for over 1 million avid pickleballers.

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