01 - HOST GUIDE
Hosting Collegiate Events
Everything you need to know about hosting collegiate pickleball events and tournaments — who plays, who runs what, when to schedule, and how to fill your courts.
02 — THE LANDSCAPE
Collegiate Pickleball Today
- Over 300 clubs across the U.S. — and growing.
- Most clubs are 2–4 years old and rapidly developing.
- Minimal funding — most clubs are student-run, and students pay out of pocket for travel and lodging, uniforms, and court rental. Many clubs fundraise through clinics, social tournaments, and events.
- A few elite clubs like Utah Tech and UVA have national titles, industry support, and multiple sponsors — but they are the exception, not the norm.
03 — THE ORGANIZATIONS
Who Runs the Tournaments
Three major organizations run collegiate tournaments. CollegiatePB partners with all three to support and grow the collegiate game.
| Organization | Regionals | Nationals | Team Format |
|---|---|---|---|
| DUPR | Yes | Yes | MLP Style |
| NCPA | Yes | Yes | Div I & II |
| APP | Yes | Yes | Custom |
04 — THE CALENDAR
Timing Your Event
The CollegiatePB calendar is the only calendar showcasing all collegiate tournaments — Regionals, Nationals, and independent events. Hosting a college tournament? We’ll post it for free.
| Timeframe | What’s Happening |
|---|---|
| Mid-August – Mid-September | Club tryouts, early-season planning |
| Late September – Early December | Teams compete at Regionals (to qualify for Nationals) |
| Mid-December – Mid-January | Winter break — minimal club activity |
| Late January – Late March | More Regionals, plus most Nationals |
| April – May | Clubs elect new boards and plan for next season |
Do
- Schedule events after mid-September.
- Use weekends — students have weekday classes.
- Check the CollegiatePB calendar to avoid conflicts.
- Consider hosting a DUPR Campus Regional — winning teams earn a bid to Nationals. DUPR Campus Regional overview.
Avoid
- Early fall dates — clubs are still organizing.
- Conflicting with Regionals or Nationals.
05 — WHY HOST
What Your Venue Gains
Gain Visibility
- Attract college students, fans, alumni, and parents.
- Increase exposure for your venue.
- Network with collegiate pickleball organizations.
Support the Community
- Show commitment to student-athletes.
- Help build a pipeline of passionate future players.
Expand Programming
- Collegiate events offer unique formats and energy.
- Engage a dynamic, fun, and social age group.
06 — MARKETING
Filling Your Courts
- Add your event to our national calendar.
- Promote it on social media — collaborate with us and we’ll spread the word. All we ask: spread the word about CollegiatePB.
- DUPR will promote Campus Regionals on their own calendar.
- Target schools within driving distance — even several hours away.
- DM clubs on Instagram — it’s how they work.
- Encourage attendance from friends, family, alumni, club members, and local fans.
Need help? Email us at info@collegiatepb.com — we’re happy to answer more questions.
07 — KNOW YOUR AUDIENCE
Working With College Students
- Affordability matters — most clubs choose low-cost events.
- Last-minute signups — it’s a student thing.
- DMs are the best contact method — Instagram is key.
- Multiple teams — local clubs often want to bring more than one.
- Students first, athletes second — be patient with replies.
These student-athletes are incredibly passionate about growing the game — your event helps move the sport forward.