High School Players

A step-by-step guide to help high school students play collegiate pickleball.

Thinking about playing pickleball in college?
We help high school players and families understand what collegiate pickleball looks like today — and how to take smart, realistic next steps.

✅ Steps to Take Now

  • Start following collegiate pickleball teams on Instagram
    This is the best way to see real match play, team culture, and events. (Check our “following list” to find the club pages for schools/universities you want to follow.)

  • Explore potential schools using our College Pickleball Club Listings
    Identify which colleges already have active pickleball clubs.

  • Follow @CollegiatePBHub
    Stay current on tournaments, teams, and how the college pickleball landscape is evolving.

  • Attend a collegiate tournament (if possible)
    Watching in person provides more insight than any ranking or stat. (Find tournaments near you by filtering our Tournament Schedule.)

More detailed guidance is shared after completing the form below

High School Player Inquiry Form

This short form helps us understand your goals so we can share free personalized tips and guidance. 

Future Steps

🔍 What We Cover With Submitted Players 

  • Do your Homework
    It’s important to understand the rapidly evolving college landscape.

  • Questions to Ask When Talking to a College Pickleball Club
    Roster size, commitment expectations, travel costs, leadership structure.

  • How to Evaluate a Pickleball Program
    Culture, consistency, coaching, and opportunity.

  • How High School Players Actually End Up on College Teams
    (Hint: it’s rarely “recruiting” in the traditional sense.)

  • Additional Resources
    Suggested tips and resources that are specifically designed for you.

🎯 Facts & Myths About College Pickleball

Here are just some of the most basic Facts and Myths you should know about college pickleball.

Myth: You need to be recruited to play in college

Fact: Most college teams are club-based.  Tryouts often happen at the beginning of the school year.  How competitive it is to get a position on the team depends entirely on the current make-up of the team.  For example, how many players are graduating or transferring?  Is the club still developing and expanding its’ roster or does the team have a strong established base making spots more limited?

Fact: Team fit, availability, and commitment matter just as much.

Fact: Financial support varies widely and is not guaranteed.