Exciting JOOLA Pickleball Celebration Returns to Orlando This Labor Day Weekend
Overview of the JOOLA Pickleball Celebration
The JOOLA Pickleball Celebration is making a comeback in Orlando this Labor Day weekend, promising to be the largest event yet. Scheduled from September 4-7 at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, this year's celebration will include a significant amateur team tournament and a new junior clinic led by pickleball legend Simone Jardim, in collaboration with National Junior Pickleball.
Kristen Carr, the events manager for JOOLA, noted that registrations have already surpassed 100 teams, with expectations of over 140 teams by the time registration closes. "This will be the biggest JOOLA Pickleball Celebration to date," Carr stated.
Since its inception, the event has grown each year, with a focus on providing an experience that transcends a typical tournament. "We aim to make it more thrilling and enjoyable each year, especially for those who have attended every event," Carr explained.
Participants can expect to play a significant amount of pickleball, ensuring they receive great value for their entry fee. The tournament's team format is a major draw, guaranteeing ample court time for all teams. Each team will compete in six rounds, with three doubles matches per round, totaling at least 18 matches throughout the event.
Unlike many tournaments that require players to wait long periods between matches, the JOOLA format is designed to maximize playtime. The competition welcomes players of all skill levels and will be categorized based on DUPR ratings.
This year, a highlight is the junior clinic led by Jardim, one of the sport's most accomplished players. The clinic aims to help young athletes enhance their technical skills through immediate application in drills and match scenarios. "She emphasizes skill development and immediate application," Carr noted. "Simone has a wealth of knowledge and is an excellent mentor for young players."
With registrations on the rise and new features being added, organizers are confident that the 2026 edition will further solidify the event's significance in the pickleball community.