MiLP: Minor League Pickleball
MiLP Regional Showdowns at MLP Events
These events follow The Dink MiLP structure, designed to deliver high-energy, meaningful competition. And for teams that rise to the top, there’s more on the line than medals and bragging rights: division winners earn a coveted Dream Ticket - an automatic invitation to the MiLP National Championship in December.
How do MiLP Regional Showdowns work?
MiLP Regional Showdowns are four-player team competitions (2 women, 2 men) played using the official Minor League Pickleball team format.
Which MLP events will host MiLP Regional Showdowns?
MiLP Regional Showdowns will be held at select MLP event stops throughout the 2026 season. Locations and dates will be announced soon. Check back for updates as the season schedule is finalized.
Who is eligible to play?
Anyone with an active DUPR account is eligible to compete. Regional Showdowns are open to all ages and skill levels, with teams placed into divisions based on DUPR ratings.
Can I play with an MLP-affiliated Minor League team?
Some MLP teams operate their own Minor League teams, giving local players the opportunity to opt in and compete under an MLP team umbrella.Participating teams and roster opportunities will be listed as they are announced.
Can I register with my own team instead?
Yes. Players can also register independently with friends and compete as their own four-player team. Both entry paths compete under the same rules, formats, and division structures.
Why should I compete in a Regional Showdown?
Regional Showdowns offer meaningful competition and a clear path forward. By playing, you can:
- Build DUPR match history and improve reliability
- Earn points toward the MiLP National Leaderboard
- Compete in an official MiLP team environment
- Earn a Dream Ticket by winning your division
- Each match contributes to your season-long progress.
What is a Dream Ticket?
A Dream Ticket is an automatic invitation to compete at the MiLP National Championship, awarded to teams that win their division at a Regional Showdown.
Dream Tickets represent one of the most direct paths to the sport’s premier amateur team event.
What is the MiLP National Championship?
The MiLP National Championship is the highest level of amateur team competition in pickleball. The field includes:
- Dream Ticket winners
- Top teams from the MiLP National Leaderboard
- Select invited teams, including MLP-affiliated programs
The event features divisions across all DUPR levels and competes for $100,000 in prize money.Every Regional Showdown match helps build toward this moment.
Where can I learn more about Minor League Pickleball?
For a full breakdown of MiLP structure, scoring, rankings, and National Championship qualification. Learn more about Minor League Pickleball:
https://www.dupr.com/post/what-is-a-regional-showdown-in-minor-league-pickleball