PPR Launches the First-Ever Certified Pickleball Player Program

If you’ve ever wished there was an official way to show your commitment to the game—something beyond league standings or your screen time on DUPR—this one’s for you. 

The Professional Pickleball Registry (PPR) just introduced the Certified Pickleball Player™ Program, the first-ever certification of its kind. It’s not a ranking. It’s not another digital badge floating around social media. It’s a real, USA Pickleball backed credential recognizing the people who keep this sport alive: the players.

Finally, Players Get Their Spotlight

Until now, only coaches could be certified. Players—the heartbeat of every open play, league, and local tournament—had no official way to show how much time, energy, and love they’ve poured into the game. 

That changes now.

More than 15,000 PPR-certified coaches can nominate players to join the program, making this one of the largest recognition efforts in pickleball.

“The Certified Pickleball Player program provides players with the tools to play more often by building meaningful relationships through the game,” says Sarah Ansboury, Managing Director of PPR. “It recognizes players’ loyalty and connects them to the communities that make pickleball so special.”

What You Actually Get (and Why It’s Cool)

Sarah Ansboury, Managing Director of PPR, leading a pickleball training session—continuing her mission to grow and connect the player community.
Photo by A Stewart Photo & Video

Here’s what comes with certification (and why it’s worth it): 

• Certified Paddle Band: A sleek paddle band that marks you as part of the club–because recognition should show up on the court, too. 

• LinkedIn Certification: Connect pickleball to your professional story and highlight it as part of your identity.

• AI Game Review: Use AI-powered tools to break down your play and see your game the way pros do.

• Certified Player Map: Get featured on the global map of certified players, joining a network of people who share your passion.

Each certification also supports youth programs, Special Olympics athletes, and the PPR Women’s Scholarship Fund, adding real impact behind the title.  

Why It Hits Home for Women

Pickleball has given women a space to connect, compete, and build confidence in a way few sports have. The Certified Player Program turns that effort into something tangible—a professional, respected acknowledgement of what you’ve built on and off the court.

And yes, there’s a practical side too. Many players are finding new opportunities through pickleball, from client connections to career growth. That simple LinkedIn credential bridges your personal and professional worlds in a meaningful way.

How to Get Certified

You can be nominated by a PPR-certified coach or start your own application at pprpickleball.org. Once approved, you’ll join a growing community of certified players recognized for their commitment, growth, and love of the game. 

A Step Forward for the Game We Love

Pickleball’s growth has always been driven by everyday players—not just the pros. PPR’s Certified Pickleball Player™ Program gives that energy an official spotlight, recognizing the people who make this community what it is.

At Empower Pickleball, we’re always here for initiatives that make the game more inclusive, credible, and connected-especially those that highlight the women leading on and off the court. 

Want to see your name on the Certified Player map? Head to pprpickleball.org and learn how to get started.