YMCA Hosts Inaugural National Pickleball Tournament

The YMCA of the USA (Y-USA), the national resource  office for the 2,600 YMCAs across the country, proudly hosted its first-ever YMCA National  Pickleball Tournament this past weekend, drawing more than 600 players from YMCAs  nationwide for three days of spirited competition, camaraderie, and community. 

The tournament took place at the USOP National Pickleball Center in Naples, Florida, where  athletes ages 18 and up competed across multiple divisions. Division winners earned a coveted  invitation to register for the 2026 U.S. Open Pickleball Championships (taking place April 11-18,  2026 in Naples, FL), bypassing the highly competitive lottery process. 

“This event exemplified what makes the Y so special; bringing people together through sport,  connection, and community,” said Meredith Griffin, Director of Sports and Competitive Events  Strategy, Y-USA. “We were thrilled to see so many Y members come together from across the  country to celebrate the joy and inclusivity of pickleball.” 

Pickleball continues to surge as one of the nation’s fastest-growing sports, drawing players of  all ages with its friendly competition, and emphasis on community. At YMCAs nationwide, the  sport is more than a game; it’s a way for members to connect, stay active, and thrive  together.