Established in 2022, the National Pickleball League (NPL) is the first professional pickleball league specifically for 50+ players. According to the league, "NPL gives fans a community to connect to, players a chance to pursue their passion, and reminds everyone that age should never be a barrier."
The NPL currently has 12 teams and 180 players, all over the age of 50, across the United States:
- Austin Ignite.
- Boca Surge.
- Denver Iconics.
- Indy Drivers.
- Naples JBB United.
- Oklahoma City Punishers.
- Coachella Valley Scorpions.
- Columbus Hotshots.
- Houston Hammers.
- Kansas City Stingers.
- Princeton Bruisers.
- Seattle Tsunami.
The teams are each individually owned, including by widely-known pickleball players or celebrities. For instance, the Coachella Valley Scorpions are co-owned by pro NPL player Kim Jagd and actor Vince Vaughn. Former NFL quarterback and Heisman Trophy winner Danny Wuerffel is currently a pro player on the Denver Iconics.
To become an NPL pro player, you have to be at least 50 years old with a rating of 4.5 or higher. If this is you, then you can apply for one of the league’s pickleball combines. If accepted, you can participate in a two-day, round robin doubles competition with multiple partners. According to the NPL: The top two men and women performers (four players total) will receive an automatic spot on an NPL Team upon their draft registration.
Learn more about the National Pickleball League here, opens in a new tab.
Watch every NPL event on the Selkirk TV app, opens in a new tab.
