This year’s National Junior Pickleball (NJP) Championship Cup in Houston set a new benchmark in junior pickleball, bringing together young players from 18 states, as far as Alaska and Canada, to compete, connect, and celebrate the sport. 

The energy was electric, with families, friends, and players filling the venue with their enthusiasm and team spirit. Founder of National Junior Pickleball (NJP), Courtney Loughridge shares her experience with us: "The energy and enthusiasm from players and families, along with the new friendships formed, exceeded every expectation," she shares, “From clinics to clinics to championship matches, each day was packed with excitement.”

The event kicked off with an engaging evening of clinics, which provided juniors with a chance to connect and break the ice before diving into three days of intense competition. The weekend unfolded with Singles, Doubles, and Team events, all set within a positive and competitive atmosphere. It was clear that NJP’s mission of fostering a community-centered tournament was alive and well.

Standout Performances and Memorable Moments

"Our tournament was filled with incredible moments—from ATPs and hand battles to thrilling rallies, including a singles game that ended with a nail-biting 27-25 score," noted Courtney. The young athletes not only brought competitive spirit but also showcased remarkable sportsmanship and camaraderie—a hallmark of NJP events.

Among the highlights were the Gold Medal Champions in each Advanced age division. These players proudly hoisted the coveted golden Championship Cup and donned the exclusive Championship Cup jackets—a unique twist on the usual medal awards. Three players were also honored with Sportsmanship Awards, a tribute to their exceptional spirit, resilience, and kindness on and off the court.

The Rise of Junior Pickleball

This year has marked explosive growth in junior pickleball. NJP witnessed a surge in young beginners joining tournaments and a significant increase in girls' participation across all age divisions. "We were thrilled to see an increase in girls' participation, especially in the 12U age group," shared Courtney. Offering divisions such as Girls Singles Advanced, Intermediate, and Beginner in this age group is a promising sign that young girls are embracing the sport with enthusiasm.

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How DUPR Transformed the Tournament Experience

The DUPR rating system has been a game-changer for NJP, helping the organizers place players in appropriate skill divisions based on existing ratings and allowing newcomers to establish theirs. For many, NJP was their first competitive experience, and having their tournament results entered into DUPR has given players a clear sense of their skill level. This transparency and structure have enhanced the tournament experience for both beginner and intermediate players, who now have a tangible way to track their progress.

Looking Ahead: The Future of NJP and Junior Pickleball

NJP has big plans for the coming year, with a focus on expanding to new regions and increasing opportunities for young players to compete and connect. 

"Our goal is to reach more young players and give them accessible pathways to competitive play, regardless of their location or skill level," the team shared. NJP’s vision is to establish junior pickleball as a go-to sport for young athletes, from beginners to those aspiring to compete at elite levels. 

As NJP Founder Courtney expressed. "Building a community where juniors and their families feel they truly belong is something I’m deeply passionate about."

In Houston, the NJP Championship Cup captured the essence of what junior pickleball is all about: community, competition, and joy. This year’s tournament will be remembered as a milestone, not only for the incredible performances and surprises but for the friendships and memories forged along the way. 

The future of junior pickleball looks bright, and we can’t wait to see what next year holds!

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Next stop: The Western Regional in California! Find more info HERE