The journey from college sports to the professional stage is often long and arduous. But for Mehvish Safdar and Ava Ignatowich, the path was accelerated thanks to the opportunities presented by the DUPR Collegiate Tour.
Both rising stars have now made history by getting drafted into Major League Pickleball (MLP) via free agency, marking a pivotal moment not just for them but for the entire collegiate pickleball ecosystem.
The Impact of the DUPR Collegiate Tour
At its core, the DUPR Collegiate Tour is designed to bridge the gap between amateur and professional pickleball. By offering:
- High-level pickleball competition for college players
- A transparent and trusted pickleball rating system
- National exposure for college pickleball players
DUPR is revolutionizing pickleball rankings and the way young talent gets discovered.
By competing in DUPR-sanctioned collegiate pickleball events, Mehvish and Ava gained valuable experience against the best college players in the nation. Their consistent performance in college pickleball tournaments led to boost their pickleball ratings and be directly selected in the MLP Free Agency Draft by professional scouts.
Mehvdish Safdar: A Steady Climb to the Top
Mehvdish Khan made waves in collegiate pickleball with her disciplined playstyle and strategic shot-making. Her journey through the DUPR Collegiate Tour saw her take on some of the best players in the nation, solidifying her reputation as a force to be reckoned with. As her DUPR rating climbed, so did her visibility among professional teams, culminating in her well-deserved selection in the MLP draft.
In our interview with her, Mehvish said:
“Everyone's really friendly at these college tournaments, and DUPR does a great job of creating a very organized environment and also an environment that's just fun and friendly. DUPR also takes very good care of the athletes too.”
Her journey proves that:
- The DUPR Pickleball Rating System is a true measure of skill.
- College pickleball tournaments are now a direct pathway to professional pickleball leagues like MLP.
- DUPR is shaping the next generation of MLP players
Her success underscores the importance of DUPR’s rating system, which ensures that talent does not go unnoticed. By competing in DUPR-sanctioned events, Mehvdish demonstrated consistency and resilience, qualities that MLP teams look for in professional players.
Ava Ignatowich: Rising Through the Ranks
Ava Ignatowich, a name that has become synonymous with aggressive yet controlled play, also took full advantage of the opportunities provided by the DUPR Collegiate Tour. With a background in high-level college competition, Ava quickly adapted to the fast-paced nature of the tour, using it as a launchpad for her professional aspirations.
Her progression showcased her ability to perform under pressure, making her an ideal candidate for MLP teams. By competing in DUPR-rated pickleball tournaments, she gained national recognition, which played a critical role in her transition to the professional circuit, reinforcing the effectiveness of the collegiate tour as a talent incubator.
DUPR’s Role in Shaping the Future of Pickleball
The success stories of Mehvdish and Ava highlight the growing influence of the DUPR Collegiate Tour in shaping the next generation of professional pickleball players. As more college athletes engage with DUPR’s competitive framework, the transition from student-athlete to professional player will continue to become more seamless.
DUPR’s transparent rating system, nationwide competitions, and commitment to elevating collegiate players have proven to be invaluable assets for aspiring pros. As the sport of pickleball grows, the DUPR Collegiate Tour is set to remain a crucial stepping stone for young athletes aiming to make their mark at the highest level.
With Mehvdish Khan and Ava Ignatowich now stepping into the professional pickleball arena, their journey serves as an inspiration for all pickleball collegiate players who dream of reaching the pinnacle of the sport.
Thanks to DUPR, that dream is now more achievable than ever.
Find out what it takes to become a DUPR Collegiate Ambassador here.
