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CNPL`s 2025 Draft now welcomes international and youth players, enhancing competition and expanding talent in Canadian pickleball.

The Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL) has unveiled significant updates to its 2025 Draft eligibility rules, marking a pivotal moment for the sport in Canada. For the first time, international players and athletes under 18 can enter the draft, expanding the talent pool and enhancing competition within the league. Teams are now permitted to draft one international player, provided they meet specific pre-draft requirements, such as participation in a CNPL Showdown or MiLP event, or holding a pro-level contract with recognized leagues like Major League Pickleball (MLP) or the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA).

Additionally, there are no restrictions on the number of under-18 players teams can draft, although they must ensure SafeSport certification and parental supervision at all CNPL events. These changes are designed to elevate the level of play and position the CNPL as a premier destination for competitive pickleball in Canada. Aspiring players who meet the new criteria are encouraged to register for the upcoming draft, setting the stage for an exhilarating 2025 season.

In related news, Pickleball Kingdom has announced plans for a new 55,000 square foot facility in Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, featuring 14 professional-grade indoor courts, set to open in October 2025. This facility aims to address the shortage of high-quality courts in the area and foster a vibrant pickleball community.

CNPL Draft
Pickleball Kingdom

#Pickleball,#CNPL,#YouthAthletes,#InternationalPlayers,#PickleballKingdom