Coming quickly on the heels of its first-ever member vote for a new Board of Directors, the U.S. Padel Association (USPA) has already begun announcing major changes, updates, and improvements in everything from its communication to its tournaments, which are designed to propel the sport forward in the U.S. in 2024 and beyond.
Among these are a monthly newsletter (which dropped for the first time this morning) and a complete overhaul of the standards for the Chosen Foods USPA Circuit tournaments for 2024.
In a statement on their website, the USPA said, “These updates, outlined in our comprehensive USPA 2024 Handbook, are all about enhancing the tournament experience, streamlining processes, and embracing the future of our beloved sport. We’re not just about maintaining traditions but about evolving with and for you.”
Per this statement, highlights of this new approach to tournaments include:
Earlier Entry Deadlines – More Time to Plan
Starting in 2024, the tournament entry deadlines for USPA tournaments will close on Thursdays, a week before the tournament’s kickoff. This new approach, shared and agreed upon by all Tournament Directors, is designed to give you, our valued players and dedicated organizers, more breathing room for planning and preparation. Say goodbye to last-minute rushes and hello to a smoother, more enjoyable tournament experience!
Monday Draw Publications – Strategy Time!
In an exciting shift, tournament draws are now required to be published by noon every Monday of the tournament week. This change, part of our 2024 Competition Structure, allows players ample time to strategize and prepare for upcoming matches. It’s all about giving you the edge you need to excel!
Automated Rankings – Real-Time Updates
Get ready for a high-tech upgrade! From February 1, all player rankings will be automated within the Padel Manager system. This innovative move ensures accuracy and efficiency in ranking updates, offering you a real-time view of where you stand. View all tournaments and rankings in the Padel Manager App or website.
The USPA also noted that this weekend it will be hosting the first of dozens of U.S. padel tournaments of the year, with the top ladies gathering at Taktika Padel in San Diego, CA, for the Qdoba 2023 Master Finals.
In other events, the first Senior Tournament of the year will also be held this weekend at Net Racquet Club by Starvie in Dallas, TX, and on January 26th, Real Padel Miami will host the first open-level USPA 250 of the year in Miami, FL.
A full list of USPA tournaments scheduled for 2024 can be found here.
