Recruiting

Most pickleball clubs are club teams. There are only a handful of varsity programs nationwide. Therefore, it's not like the NCAA where students are actively recruited years in advance. Instead, tryouts are held at most schools in the fall and it's up to you to take the first steps.

Not all collegiate pickleball clubs are equally competitive. Newer or smaller clubs may have plenty of openings, while larger, established programs may have more than 100 players competing for only a handful of spots on their competitive team.

Before choosing a school, consider asking:
How many spots are typically available each year?
How many players graduated from the team?
Is the club looking for more men, women, or both?
What is the current skill level of the team?
How many club members are selected to travel and compete?
Are there opportunities for players who do not initially make the competitive or travel team?

Club membership does not always guarantee a place on the competitive team, so it is important to understand each program’s tryout process and available opportunities.

Playing ability matters, but club teams often consider more than a player’s rating. During tryouts, teams may evaluate:
* Recent rating and match results
* Tournament and competitive experience
* Consistency, teamwork, and communication
* Availability for practices, tournaments, and travel
* A positive attitude and good sportsmanship
* Willingness to volunteer and contribute to the club

General Skill-Level Guide
**5.0+: Potential fit for top competitive teams
**4.0–5.0: Competitive club or travel teams
**3.5–4.0: Developmental or emerging competitive teams

These ranges are general guidelines only. Expectations vary considerably by school, and a rating alone does not determine whether a player will make a team.

How to Get Started

1. Make a List of Schools
Start with the colleges and universities you are considering. Find out whether each school has a pickleball club, competitive team, or travel team.

2. Research Each Program
Find the club on Instagram and follow its account. Pay attention to:
* The size and competitiveness of the club
* Tryout dates and requirements
* Tournament participation
* Practice schedules
* The team’s culture and activities

Following programs early can help you learn about tryouts, open play, tournaments, and other opportunities.

3. Introduce Yourself
Send the club a short direct message or email. Include:
* Your name and high school graduation year
* Your playing background and DUPR rating, if available
* When you plan to visit campus
* Your interest in joining the club or competitive team.

4. Connect During Your Campus Visit
If possible, arrange to attend a practice, open play session, or club event. This gives you an opportunity to meet the players, experience the club culture, and better understand the team’s level of play.

5. Continue Developing Your Game
Play tournaments, record match results, and work toward improving your DUPR rating. While not every club requires a specific rating, a stronger competitive record can create more opportunities.

6. Experience College Pickleball
Attend a collegiate tournament or watch matches online. This can help you:
* See the level of competition
* Learn how team events operate
* Observe different schools and players
* Decide whether collegiate pickleball is a good fit for you

Use the CollegiatePB calendar to find tournaments, livestreams, and regional events near you.

7. Complete our Inquiry Form - it's free. We'll offer individualized guidance and support.