If you've been playing pickleball for a bit, you may be ready to test your skills and start playing pickleball tournaments! Playing in a tournament is a little different from playing a friendly match. It's a more intense and strategic kind of play that requires more preparation and planning.Here we'll guide you through some steps to help prepare you for competitive play at tournaments. We'll cover everything from finding the right pickleball tournament and doing your research to preparing your game plan, mind, and body.
Finding the Right Pickleball Tournaments
For starters, you need to find pickleball tournaments that suit your level of play, location, and schedule. You'll need to decide whether you want to play singles and/or doubles. Look for tournaments that are appropriate for your skill level and the type of play you enjoy. DUPR pickleball tournaments are a good place to start as these are events run in partnership with DUPR. These events are typically open to players with pickleball ratings within a specific range. Using DUPR ratings for tournament eligibility helps ensure players are at a relatively similar level, which will ideally make matches more competitive.The DUPR rating system is based on a scale from 2.00 to 8.00. A player with a higher DUPR rating indicates a more skilled and experienced player, while a lower rating suggests a less experienced player. A player's rating is calculated using factors such as margin of victory, type of result, and outcome of match.Bounce runs pickleball tournaments in partnership with DUPR. Click here to find out about tournaments on offer in your local area!
Doing Your Research
Once you've found a tournament that you're interested in, it's essential to do your research about the event. Familiarize yourself with the tournament rules and regulations, especially around the tournament format, scoring, serve rotations, and time-outs. Each pickleball tournament's rules may vary, so make sure you're aware of any relevant rules.It's important to know how many matches you could play and how the pickleball tournament brackets will be set up, whether it has a consolation bracket, single elimination, double elimination, round-robin, or pool play.Find out what kind of balls are being used for the tournament. Pickleball balls come in a wide variety of types, and each one performs differently than others. Because of that, it can be really helpful to practice with the ball that will be used in the tournament ahead of time.Additionally, you should find out what the playing environment will be, whether it's indoors or outdoors. And make sure you know when you need to show up for your matches and at what location. It's always best to double check this, so there’s no confusion or stress on the first day of the tournament.
Picking a Partner
If you're wanting to play doubles in a pickleball tournament, you'll need to find the right partner around your skill level, which can be challenging. You'll ideally also want to get some practice in with them before the tournament.To pick the right partner, start thinking about what type of players you've played well with on the practice court, whether a more aggressive or defensive player is best. You'll also need to consider whether you gel with them or not personally. Do you know someone who fits that, is around your skill level, and looks fun to play with? Ask them!If you need help finding a partner, Bounce can help you get involved with the pickleball community in your local area.
Participating in Clinics & Hitting Sessions
Ahead of the tournament, it can be helpful to take part in clinics and hitting sessions that can help you improve your skills. It may also be beneficial to work with a coach ahead of the tournament. They can talk you through what to expect but also how to prepare and any game plans you should have.Hitting sessions with other players who have experience in tournament play can also be really beneficial. Playing practice matches can help you get ready for the pressure of competition. They may be able to give you tips and advice on preparing for and playing in the tournament as well.
Preparing Your Game & Plan
Before the tournament, it can also be beneficial to review and think about your game plan, practice your shots more, and have strategies in mind that you can focus on when playing matches. It's also vital to arrive early on the day of the tournament, so you're not rushed and have enough time to warm up and make sure you're in the right headspace.
Bringing the Right Equipment & Supplies
Make sure you pack all the necessary equipment and supplies for the tournament. This includes your paddle, extra balls, court shoes, water bottles, snacks, and any other items that you might need during the tournament. Organize your equipment, so you have everything you need easily accessible during your matches.Here's a list of the things you'll need for a pickleball tournament:
- Pickleball paddles
- Pickleballs
- Shoes
- Bottles
- Snacks
- First aid kit
- Sun protection
- Towel
- Spare clothes
Preparing Your Body & Mind
When preparing for a pickleball tournament, it's essential to take care of your body and mind. You'll want to get a good night's sleep leading up to the tournament. Eat healthy foods and have a big meal the night before. You'll also want to graze throughout the day during the tournament. Additionally, stay hydrated to ensure that you're in the best physical condition possible for the tournament.You could even take some time to practice visualization, meditation, or other relaxation techniques to train your mind to stay focused and calm during the tournament. Going into the tournament with a set plan can also help you focus on something to work on, particularly if you're nervous.
Remembering Your Time-outs
Pickleball tournaments can be exhausting, both physically and mentally, particularly when playing in a tournament. If you're feeling overwhelmed or need to regroup, don't hesitate to call a time-out. Each player or team usually gets two per game. Using a time-out is a great way to take a break, refocus, and catch your breath.Some people say they don't like taking a time-out because it breaks their flow. But sometimes it can help to slow down and reset. If you lose a few points in a row, it can be a good time to call one.
Have Fun!
Finally, the most important thing to remember when preparing for a pickleball tournament is to have fun! Yes, it's competitive, but the most important thing is to enjoy the experience. Remember that playing pickleball is a great way to stay active, healthy, and connected. Take the time to interact with other players, learn from your experiences, and make new friends.If you're new to playing pickleball tournaments, it can be daunting to start competitive play. But make sure you're prepared ahead of time, and don't worry too much about how you're playing. Just keep focusing on the next point, enjoy the experience, appreciate the connections you make along the way, and have some fun – no matter how you play!
Playing in Pickleball Tournaments
Participating in a pickleball tournament can be exciting and rewarding, but to make the most out of it, it's best to be prepared. From picking the right tournament to preparing your mind and body, there are some easy ways to ensure that you're as ready as possible for competitive play.Pickleball tournaments, particularly DUPR pickleball tournaments, offer a unique opportunity for you to play against similarly ranked opponents and maybe even improve your rating! Whether you're new to the game or more experienced, pickleball tournaments also provide a fun and challenging way to take your game to the next level.At Bounce, we run epic amateur pickleball tournaments in partnership with DUPR that offer prize money. Check out the tournaments on offer in your local area!
