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.
