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Delaware Life and DUPR: Fueling the Growth of Pickleball
Delaware Life and DUPR team up to fuel growth of pickleball, providing accurate ratings and increasing grassroots engagement.
Pickleball is taking the world by storm, becoming one of the fastest-growing participatory sports enjoyed by people of all ages. In an exciting development for the sport, Delaware Life Insurance Company (“Delaware Life”) and DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) have joined forces in a long-term partnership to drive growth and innovation in pickleball. With Delaware Life as the exclusive presenting sponsor of DUPR, this collaboration aims to increase play opportunities and engage more players at the grassroots level. Let’s explore how this partnership will unfold and what it means for the pickleball community.
Unleashing the Power of Data and Technology:
DUPR, the leading data and technology platform in pickleball, boasts a proprietary global rating system. This system assesses player performance based on match results, providing a real-time, reliable, and accurate assessment of skill levels. By partnering with DUPR, Delaware Life is leveraging the power of data and technology to enhance the pickleball experience for players across the board. From amateurs to professionals, DUPR’s global rating system offers a unifying language that transcends age, gender, and location.
A Shared Mission for Growth and Empowerment:
Delaware Life’s President and CEO, Colin Lake, highlights the strong alignment between the brand and pickleball. The sport’s increasing popularity among diverse age groups resonates well with Delaware Life’s client base. The partnership with DUPR not only supports the growth of the game but also presents new opportunities to engage clients and business partners. Both Delaware Life and DUPR share a passion for delivering outstanding tools and services that empower their respective communities with information, insights, and opportunities for growth.
Collaborative Engagement for Pickleball Enthusiasts:
Besides being the presenting sponsor of DUPR, Delaware Life and DUPR will collaborate on level-based pickleball events and opportunities. Utilizing DUPR’s extensive network of clubs and organizations, such as Life Time, Ace Pickleball Clubs, and Dill Dinkers, the partnership aims to enhance customer, employee, and partner engagement experiences. These collaborations will provide new avenues for enthusiasts to engage with the sport, further contributing to the growth of pickleball.
DUPR’s Rapid Rise and Global Presence:
Since its founding as the analytics arm of Major League Pickleball in 2021, DUPR has emerged as the best-in-class global pickleball rating system. It is now independently operating and widely used by amateurs, collegiate, and professional players for accurate skill level assessments. DUPR’s user base has grown exponentially, with a presence in over 140 countries, including China, India, Germany, and the UK. This remarkable growth showcases the global appeal of pickleball and the demand for a reliable rating system that unifies the pickleball community.
Supporting the Mission with Partners and Supporters:
To further bolster its mission and strengthen its presence, DUPR has welcomed influential board members and investors such as David Kass and tennis legend Andre Agassi. In addition, DUPR has formed partnerships with companies like The Picklr, JOOLA, Rally Republic, and many others. These collaborations highlight the collective commitment to elevating the sport and promoting its growth on a global scale.
The partnership between Delaware Life and DUPR represents an exciting development for the pickleball community. By combining resources, data, and expertise, they are fueling the growth of pickleball and introducing new opportunities for grassroots engagement. As pickleball continues to captivate players worldwide, this collaboration sets the stage for even greater innovation, inclusivity, and accessibility within the sport. With Delaware Life’s support as the presenting sponsor of DUPR, we can anticipate a bright future for pickleball enthusiasts everywhere.
To learn more about the partnership between Delaware Life and DUPR, please visit https://dupr.delawarelife.com.
About DUPR
DUPR (Dynamic Universal Pickleball Rating) presented by Delaware Life, is the premier global pickleball rating system and technology platform, trusted by the world’s leading clubs, tournaments, leagues, and players. DUPR’s dynamic rating system unifies pickleball across age, gender, and location by analyzing match results to accurately evaluate all players across a 2.000 – 8.000 scale. Players and operators can visit www.dupr.com to sign up and learn more.
About Delaware Life Insurance Company
Delaware Life is an insurance and annuity company that empowers financial professionals with a wide array of customizable solutions. A subsidiary of Group 1001, we were born out of the advisor industry, and we understand how important it is to find the right fit for every client, every situation, and every individual need. We’re passionate about equipping you with annuities that give your customers peace of mind and a successful future—allowing them to plan with confidence for whatever’s next.
About Group 1001
Group 1001 is a collective that empowers companies to create positive growth. Our insurance and annuities are easy to understand and accessible to all. Our online investing platform gives individuals control over their savings. Our technology and innovation help companies succeed. And our strategic partnerships bring people together through education and sports.
As of December 31, 2023, Group 1001 had more than 1,200 employees and combined assets under management of $62.6 billion, serving more than 950,000 customers. It comprises the following brands: Delaware Life, Gainbridge®, Clear Spring Health, Clear Spring Property and Casualty Group, Clear Spring Life and Annuity Company, and RVI Group, among others.
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Sports
Paddletek Group Launches: What the New Multi-Brand Merger Means for Performance Pickleball
Paddletek forms the Paddletek Group with ProXR, Padeltek, and Yobow—plus a new performance paddle line coming next month.
Last Updated on January 16, 2026 by Daily News Staff
Pickelball multi-ethnic female team with concentrated expression about to play in an outdoor court
Paddletek Group Launches: What the New Multi-Brand Merger Means for Performance Pickleball
Pickleball’s growth has been loud, fast, and impossible to ignore. Now the equipment side of the sport is starting to consolidate in a way that could shape what players swing next season. On Dec. 19, 2025, Paddletek announced the creation of the Paddletek Group, a new umbrella organization that brings together Paddletek, ProXR, Padeltek, and Yobow under one platform. The goal: accelerate innovation in high-performance pickleball paddles (and padel rackets), expand athlete support, and build a bigger engine for growth as both sports continue to surge.What is the Paddletek Group?
At its core, the Paddletek Group is a multi-brand merger designed to unify product development, athlete partnerships, and go-to-market momentum across several recognized names. The announcement positions the new entity as a “unified platform” for:- Innovation in performance equipment for pickleball and padel
- Support for sponsored athletes
- Scaling growth as participation expands
Why this merger matters to players
Most players don’t wake up thinking about corporate structure. They wake up thinking about feel, control, pop, spin, and whether their paddle is helping or hurting them in tight points. This merger matters because it combines two distinct strengths:- Paddletek’s legacy in performance design and manufacturing
- ProXR’s performance-driven approach
A milestone moment for the brand (and the sport)
Curtis Smith, Founder of Paddletek, framed the move as bigger than a business headline. He said the formation of the Paddletek Group “marks an important milestone” for the brand and for pickleball and padel, adding that bringing the brands together “amplifies our ability to innovate to support both recreational and elite players.” That “recreational and elite” line is worth paying attention to. It suggests the group wants to build a product pipeline that spans:- approachable paddles for the everyday player
- high-performance models for advanced and tournament-level athletes
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The numbers: one million paddles, made in the USA
Paddletek also highlighted a major manufacturing and brand milestone: more than one million paddles sold, with products “proudly made in the USA.” In a category where manufacturing origin is part of the brand story (and sometimes part of the buying decision), that’s not a throwaway detail—it’s a positioning statement. The release also notes that, with the merger, the Paddletek Group becomes the No. 2 paddle brand among advanced players, citing the Sports & Fitness Industry Association (SFIA).What’s coming next: a new performance paddle line
The most immediate product news is this: the Paddletek Group says it will introduce a new performance paddle line next month, combining “the strength and expertise from both great brands.” While the release doesn’t share specs, pricing, or model names, it does set expectations that this won’t be a minor refresh. It’s being framed as a true “combined” line—likely the first public proof point of what the merger unlocks.Padel expansion is clearly on the roadmap
Pickleball may be the headline, but padel is not an afterthought here. The group says plans are underway to expand innovation into padel, which is seeing rapid growth globally. For equipment companies, padel represents a bigger international footprint and a different performance profile—meaning more R&D opportunity and, potentially, a broader athlete ecosystem.The leadership angle: Thirty-5 Capital steps into the spotlight
The release also spotlights Thirty-5 Capital’s role. Ron Saslow, Founder and Managing Partner at Thirty-5 Capital, is named CEO of the Paddletek Group. Saslow described the moment as “exhilarating” given the global growth of pickleball and padel, and said the group brings together “respected brands with complementary strengths, and tremendous technologies to create an even bigger, bolder, better company.” Private equity involvement doesn’t automatically mean “good” or “bad” for players—but it often means the company is gearing up to scale: more product launches, more marketing, more athlete signings, and more distribution.What to watch as this rolls out
If you’re a player, coach, or gear-head, here are the practical questions this announcement raises:- Will the new paddle line create a true performance leap, or mostly consolidate existing tech?
- How will athlete rosters evolve across Paddletek and ProXR sponsorships?
- Will “made in the USA” remain central as the group scales?
- How aggressively will the group push into padel, and will that influence pickleball R&D priorities?
Learn more
- Paddletek: https://www.paddletek.com/
- Thirty-5 Capital: https://www.thirtyfivecapital.com/
Disclosure: This article is based on a press release distributed via PRNewswire on Dec. 19, 2025. Sources: PRNewswire press release page: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/introducing-paddletek-group-advancing-the-future-of-performance-pickleball-302646989.html
The Sports section of STM Daily News is your ultimate destination for all things sports, catering to everyday fans and dedicated enthusiasts alike. We cover a wide range of topics, from the thrill of amateur competitions to the excitement of semi-professional and professional leagues. Our content delves into physical and mental fitness, providing insights and tips that help individuals elevate their performance, whether on the field or in their personal wellness journeys. Stay informed and inspired as we explore the dynamic world of sports, celebrating both the passion of the players and the joy of the fans.
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Ace Pickleball Club Launches National Player Development Series to Elevate Skills for Every Level of Play
Ace Pickleball Club launches a national Player Development Series with four training levels, plus free Intro to Pickleball clinics. Learn what’s included and how to sign up.
Ace Pickleball Club Launches National Player Development Series to Elevate Skills for Every Level of Play
Pickleball keeps pulling in new players for one simple reason: it’s easy to start and hard to stop. But once the “first game” excitement wears off, a lot of people hit the same wall—How do I actually get better without guessing what to practice next? Ace Pickleball Club (APC) just rolled out a clear answer. On December 17, 2025, Ace Pickleball Club announced the nationwide launch of its new Player Development Series—a four-stage training pathway built to help players learn fundamentals, build consistency, and progress toward competitive play over time.A four-stage pathway built for real progression
APC’s Player Development Series is structured as a multi-tier program with four progressive levels of instruction, designed to meet players where they are and give them an obvious “next step.” Here’s how the series breaks down:- Starter Series (available now nationwide): An eight-session program focused on core fundamentals, guided drills, and confidence-building play.
- Essentials Series (select locations now; nationwide in early 2026): Built to help players develop consistency and prepare for intermediate-level games.
- Performance Series (rolling out first half of 2026): Focused on strategy, court awareness, and competitive growth.
- Precision Series (rolling out first half of 2026): The final stage, centered on fine-tuning technique and advanced shot-making.
Beginner-friendly entry point still available (and free)
Alongside the new series, APC will continue offering its Intro to Pickleball clinic at all locations at no cost. This is a smart move because it removes the most common barrier for new players: feeling unprepared. According to APC, the Intro clinic provides everything needed to step onto the court, including:- Paddles
- Balls
- A welcoming, skilled instructor
- A beginner-friendly introduction to rules, movement, and the spirit of the game
Why APC is betting on development right now
Pickleball’s growth is bringing in players with wildly different goals—some want a fun weekly workout, others want to climb into competitive brackets. Joe Sexton, President of Ace Pickleball Club, said the new series is designed to serve that full range: “Our Player Development Series gives every member a clear next step, whether they’re touching a paddle for the first time or working toward advanced competitive play.” He also emphasized that APC is aiming to strengthen the community-first culture that keeps people coming back.Included as part of the member experience
APC says the Player Development Series is included as part of the Ace Pickleball Club Member experience, reinforcing its mission to keep the sport accessible, fun, and growth-oriented across ages and skill levels.About Ace Pickleball Club
Ace Pickleball Club is a national pickleball franchise built around a member-focused model and all-inclusive pricing. APC promotes an “open play on demand” approach—meaning players don’t need to coordinate groups, plan far in advance, or reserve a spot just to get on the court. APC currently has 22 locations open nationwide, with more planned for 2026. Clubs feature professional-grade cushioned courts and a climate-controlled playing environment.How to learn more or sign up
To learn more or register for a Player Development Series session, visit:Get the latest updates and information on the rapidly growing sport of pickleball, specifically designed for the senior community aged 50+. Check out Sleeve’s Senior Pickleball Report on YouTube to stay informed and up-to-date with the ever-changing world of pickleball. Join the community and stay ahead of the game. https://stmdailynews.com/sleeves-senior-pickleball-report/
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Senior Pickleball Report
Top Pickleball Holiday Gifts for Pros and Beginners
Find the perfect holiday gifts for both pickleball pros and beginners, with a wide selection of gear and accessories for this popular sport.
Last Updated on November 24, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Pickleball Holiday Gifts
Looking for the perfect holiday gifts for pickleball enthusiasts? Look no further! As “America’s fastest-growing sport,” pickleball appeals to all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re shopping for a pro or a beginner, there are plenty of options to choose from. Consider gifting them a high-quality pickleball paddle tailored to their playing style, with options ranging from control paddles to power paddles. Don’t forget to consider factors like weight, grip, and shape. In addition to paddles, there’s a wide array of pickleball-related merchandise available, from apparel to accessories. This holiday season, surprise your pickleball-loving friends and family with the best gear and accessories that’ll enhance their playing experience and keep them entertained for hours on the court.
Discover an exciting range of merchandise by visiting the web stores of Sleeves SPR’s friends. From trendy clothing to stylish accessories, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss out – start browsing today! https://sleeves-spr.store/friends-of-spr/
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