Canadian Pickleball: A Complete Guide to National Leagues and Tournaments 2025
Pickleball continues its global expansion, and Canada is becoming one of the most dynamic centers for the sport’s growth. Under the leadership of Pickleball Canada (the official national federation), the country has implemented a clear and structured competition system that includes both professional players and millions of amateurs.
In 2025, over 1000 sanctioned events are expected to take place across Canada. These tournaments are critical for players, as their results impact the official ranking systems CTPR (Canadian Tournament Pickleball Ratings) and the international DUPR system.
To participate in most official competitions, players must have an active Pickleball Canada membership (approximate cost – $50 per year).
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National Leagues
The national pickleball scene in Canada is currently divided between two key professional structures that foster both team spirit and individual excellence.
1. Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL)
CNPL is Canada’s premier professional team league, operating under a popular franchise model.
- Structure: the league consists of 8 teams (e.g., Toronto United, Montreal Lions).
- 2025 Season: runs from March to October, featuring a regular season divided into four stages and a final playoff.
- Format: each match includes four contests (both singles and doubles).
- Appeal: CNPL offers significant prizes from top sponsors (Tyrol, Onix, Selkirk) and organizes pre-season “showdowns” that allow amateurs to compete alongside professionals.
2. CPA Pro Tour (Canadian Pickleball Association Pro Tour)
This tour is positioned as the first professional tour for top players, offering an intense individual competitive format.
- Participants: contracts are awarded to the top 20–24 professionals.
- Format: double elimination system, allowing more matches per player.
- Prizes: prize pool per tournament starts at $15,000.
- Inclusivity: the tour isn’t limited to elite players. It includes a wide range of categories, allowing amateurs and veterans to participate: Pro, 3.0+, 19+, 35+, 50+, and Senior Pro (55+).
National Tournaments
The centerpiece of the Canadian calendar is the National Championship.
Myoflex National Championship Presented by HearingLife
This tournament is the main national event (Tier I sanctioned) and crowns Canadian champions in multiple divisions.
- Date & Location: August 19–24, 2025, Winnipeg, Manitoba.
- Categories: Men’s/Women’s Singles, Doubles, and Mixed Doubles.
- 2025 Innovation: for the first time, the Championship includes a Provincial/Territorial Team Competition, highlighting regional pride.
Regional National Events
In addition to the main championship, Pickleball Canada hosts large regional tournaments that are vital for earning ranking points:
- Atlantic Championships: (September 25–28, 2025, Atlantic Canada). Sanctioned tournament open to all skill levels.
The Power of the Regions
The rapid growth of pickleball in Canada is largely driven by the activity of provincial associations (e.g., Pickleball Ontario, Pickleball BC). They organize local ladders, weekly leagues, and their own championships.
British Columbia (Pickleball BC)
British Columbia shows high activity, particularly around Vancouver and Victoria.
| Event | Date/Period | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Abbotsford Fall Classic | October 21–23, 2025 | Sanctioned, all skill levels. |
| Kelowna Open | July 17–20, 2025 | One of the largest tournaments in the province. |
| Delta Dash & Smash | June 6–8, 2025 | Doubles-only tournament. |
| Local Leagues | Daily/Weekly | Local “ladders” and open play at major clubs. |
Ontario (Pickleball Ontario)
Central Canada is one of the most competition-rich regions.
| Event | Date/Period | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Pickleball Ontario Provincial Championship | August 28–31, 2025 | Main provincial championship, held at the Pickleplex Social Club in Downsview. |
| Royal City Open | April 2–6, 2025 | Major spring tournament in Guelph. |
| CNPL Metropolitan Split | September 6–7, 2025 | Team competition in CNPL format, Oakville. |
Western and Eastern Canada
- Western Regions: the provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba are integrated via the Western Regional Championships (April 2025, Vernon, BC). Manitoba is also focused on preparing for the 2025 National Championship.
- Quebec: the province actively participates in professional formats. For example, the CNPL Eastern Split will be held in Montreal on June 7–8, 2025.
Canadian players are also active on the global stage. CNPL and CPA Pro Tour professionals regularly compete in international events, such as the U.S.-based PPA Tour (e.g., Toronto Open).
How to Start Competing?
Competitive pickleball in Canada has a well-defined path:
- Get a Membership with Pickleball Canada.
- Register Your Rating (DUPR/CTPR) via sanctioned tournaments.
- Choose a League (local ladders or CNPL/CPA).
