About CNPL

In order to participate in the Canadian National Pickleball League (“CNPL”) or any associated leagues including; the player pool, the draft, qualifiers, pre-season events, regular season events, or the playoffs you must be willing and able to provide, at your own expense, any and all documentation to prove you meet the requirements set out below. These rules aim to ensure the professionalism, integrity, and well-being of participants in the Canadian National Pickleball League and associated leagues. Registration does not guarantee participation.

Participants must meet the following requirements:

• Age Requirements: Participants under the age of 18 years require a parent or guardian to attend all events with them.
• Citizenship Requirements: Players should be a citizen or permanent resident of Canada. Each team will have a single player temporary resident exemption as well as a single player non-Canadian exemption.
• Skill Requirements: Participants should be highly rated (5.0+), regular participants in open, pro, or premier events, or former high level athletes with other sports backgrounds.
• Participation Requirements: Participants should intend, if drafted, assigned, or otherwise added to a team, to participate in all scheduled events in the season unless due to personal emergencies.
• Fitness and Health Requirements: Players must maintain a certain level of fitness and health to ensure they can compete at a professional level.

Additionally participants must meet the following standards:

• Adherence to Code of Conduct: Participants must adhere to a strict code of conduct, promoting sportsmanship, fair play, and respect for opponents, officials, and spectators.
• Equipment Standards: All participants must use equipment that complies with the USA Pickleball Equipment Standards Manual. Regular equipment checks may be conducted to ensure fairness and safety. Paddles will be tested at each event.
• Professional Appearance: Players are expected to maintain a professional appearance during events, including proper attire and conduct during interviews and media engagements.
• Commitment to Skill Development: Participants should demonstrate a commitment to ongoing skill development and improvement, possibly through regular training sessions and coaching.
• Respect for Facilities: Players must respect the facilities where events are held, including locker rooms, practice areas, and other common spaces.
• Injury Reporting: Participants are required to promptly report any injuries to league officials to ensure proper medical attention and to assess the player’s eligibility for future events.

Category Definitions:

• The Female Category: is designated for participants who are biologically female. Participants entering this category must meet the league’s criteria for female competition based on biological sex.
• The Open Category: is inclusive and open to participants of all genders. Any individual, regardless of their biological sex, is eligible to compete in the Open category.