pickleball and sports exclusive
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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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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National Pickle Day: Celebrating the Tangy Delights of Pickles
Celebrate National Pickle Day on November 14th, indulging in the tangy delights of pickles. Discover fascinating pickle facts and try different varieties! #NationalPickleDay
Last Updated on November 14, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Why did the pickle take up Pickleball? Because it wanted to be a “dill-lightful” athlete on the court! Just like the versatile and pickle-icious sport of Pickleball, pickles themselves bring a tangy twist to any dish they’re added to. So, whether you’re smashing shots on the Pickleball court or enjoying a pickle-infused snack, let’s pickle our way to fun and laughter! Happy National Pickle Day and may your Pickleball skills be as sharp as a perfectly brined gherkin!
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Senior Pickleball Report
Unstoppable Dominance: The Picklr Unleashes 70-Club Expansion with Proven Construction Giant
The Picklr, North America’s fastest-growing indoor pickleball franchise, partners with NFC Contracting Group to support ambitious expansion plans, targeting 70 new locations within a year. This alliance promises consistency and quality in facilities, reflecting pickleball’s soaring popularity and community-building efforts.
Last Updated on October 20, 2025 by Daily News Staff
Strategic partnership positions North America’s fastest-growing indoor pickleball franchise for unprecedented expansion
The pickleball boom shows no signs of slowing down, and The Picklr is making sure it stays ahead of the curve. The Salt Lake City-based franchise just announced a game-changing partnership with NFC Contracting Group, a move designed to support the brand’s ambitious nationwide expansion as it races to open 70 new locations over the next year.
With 52 clubs already serving players across North America and demand continuing to surge, The Picklr needed a construction partner who could deliver consistency, quality, and speed at scale. Enter NFC Contracting Group, a national general contractor with more than three decades of commercial construction expertise under its belt.
Building on Proven Success
This isn’t a blind partnership. NFC has already proven its worth by successfully delivering multiple Picklr facilities in Arizona, demonstrating an understanding of the brand’s standards and vision that goes beyond typical contractor relationships.
“As we scale across the country, it was critical to align with a construction partner who shares our vision and commitment to excellence,” said Chris Walker, Chief Development Officer at The Picklr. “NFC has already proven its expertise by successfully delivering multiple Picklr clubs in Arizona. Their precision, reliability, and alignment with our values make them the ideal partner for this next phase of growth.”
Why This Partnership Matters
For franchisees and pickleball enthusiasts alike, this partnership means something important: consistency. Whether you walk into a Picklr facility in Phoenix or Portland, you’ll experience the same world-class standards that have made the brand a leader in the indoor pickleball space.
NFC’s track record in large-scale, multi-state commercial projects positions them perfectly to support The Picklr’s rapid rollout. Their expertise in retail, sports, and franchise buildouts means they understand the unique demands of creating facilities that need to function flawlessly from day one while maintaining brand integrity across hundreds of locations.
“NFC strives for excellence, and our goal is to build these facilities with the quality and consistency that franchisees expect,” said Nick Crisci, Principal of NFC Contracting Group. “We know The Picklr brand and take pride in protecting its reputation while building strong relationships and supporting the success of every franchisee.”
Meeting Demand Where It Matters
The Picklr’s growth trajectory reflects the explosive popularity of pickleball itself. What started as a backyard pastime has evolved into one of America’s fastest-growing sports, attracting players of all ages and skill levels. The Picklr has capitalized on this momentum by creating premium facilities that go beyond just courts—they’re building communities.
With professional-grade courts, comprehensive programming from beginner clinics to competitive tournaments, and a membership model that provides access to all club locations nationwide, The Picklr has positioned itself as more than just a place to play. It’s become a destination for anyone serious about the sport.
What’s Next
With 70 new clubs planned for the next 12 months and more than 500 locations sold nationwide, The Picklr’s partnership with NFC Contracting Group ensures that rapid growth doesn’t come at the expense of quality. Each new facility will be built to the same exacting standards, protecting the brand reputation while creating lasting value for franchisees and exceptional experiences for players.
For a sport that’s still relatively young, having infrastructure partners who can scale with demand is crucial. The Picklr’s decision to formalize its relationship with NFC signals confidence not just in the company’s growth trajectory, but in pickleball’s staying power as a mainstream sport.
As communities across North America continue to embrace pickleball, partnerships like this one ensure that players will have access to world-class facilities no matter where they live. And for The Picklr, it means staying at the forefront of an industry that’s just getting started.
Related Stories
The Picklr Official Website – Find locations, membership info, and franchise opportunities
The Picklr Franchise Information – Learn about owning a Picklr franchise
NFC Contracting Group – Meet the construction partner behind The Picklr’s expansion
Find a Picklr Location Near You – Sea
SOURCE The Picklr
More Pickleball News on Sleeves-SPR
Latest Pickleball Facility News – Coverage of new courts and venues
Indoor vs Outdoor: What Senior Players Need to Know – (Link to relevant existing article if you have one)
Mike “Sleeves” Sliwa’s Take on Pickleball’s Growth – (Link to Sleeves commentary/opinion pieces)
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