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Latest updates from the Canadian National Pickleball League
News
Canadian Pickleball Goes Global: CNPL Joins Historic International Alliance
The Canadian National Pickleball League (CNPL) has joined six international organizations — including the APP (USA), European Pickleball Federation, and leagues from India, Australia, the UK, and Vietnam — to launch the first-ever Global Pro Pickleball Tour. The alliance creates a unified world calendar, transparent global rankings, and coordinated prize pools across 30+ events on six continents. Canadian players can now compete internationally without scheduling conflicts while earning recognized global ranking points. The 2026 Canadian Open in September will feature international pros competing on home soil. The CNPL's domestic season opens May 9–10 in Oakville, giving players a full competitive pathway from local to world-stage competition.
CNPL C4 Draft Recap: Winners, X-Factors, & Team Breakdown
The CNPL C4 Draft delivered balanced rosters across 8 teams with 48 total athletes. London Smash, Vancouver Owls, and Grand River Rapids emerge as draft winners, prioritizing depth and chemistry over star power for what promises to be the most competitive season yet.
The Smash Academy Is Here: Building the Future of Pickleball in the Georgian Triangle
The Smash Academy launches at Smash Pickleball Collingwood with youth programs (38 players enrolled), sold-out drill sessions, and a Touring Pro Series. Spring 2026 brings 'The Road to the CNPL'—elite youth training for future professionals.
Northern Lights CNPL Combine - January 10, 2026
The Northern Lights and Grandview Pickleball Club host the ultimate CNPL Draft Combine on January 10, 2026, in Newmarket — your last chance to qualify for the 2026 CNPL Draft.
Second Pre-Season Trade: United Move Up, Drive Improve Depth Picks
Detroit-Windsor Drive and Toronto United complete the second pre-season trade, with United moving up to secure the #3 overall pick in Round 3 while the Drive continue accumulating depth picks for their three open roster spots.
Making History in the Maritimes and What's Coming This Weekend
The Maritimes make CNPL history with their first qualifier in Halifax, while the final Ontario qualifier hits London this weekend (December 13). Draft registration closes January 19—this is your shot at going pro.
Your Shot at History: 2026 CNPL Draft Registration Now Open
CNPL Draft registration is open until January 19, 2026, for the January 27 draft. With 27 roster spots across 8 teams, players have their shot at Canadian pickleball history.
First Trade of the C4 Offseason: Drive and Lights Swap Draft Picks
The C4 offseason just got more interesting. In the first trade of the draft season, the Detroit-Windsor Drive and Northern Lights have swapped picks ahead of the January 27 draft.
Free Agency Frenzy: Brewers, Drive, and Pronghorns Add to Their Rosters
Three teams complete their pre-draft rosters as CNPL free agency wraps up with impact signings across the league.
Defending Champions Strike Back: Montreal Lions Sign Christina Chin
The defending CNPL champion Montreal Lions respond to losing Anne-Sophie Courteau by signing elite talent Christina Chin, pairing two #1 overall picks to strengthen their threepeat bid.
Anne-Sophie Courteau Signs as CNPL's First Ever Free Agent
Anne-Sophie Courteau makes CNPL history as the league's first-ever free agent signing, joining the championship-minded London Smash for the C4 season.
Your Path to the CNPL: 2026 Draft Qualification Events Announced
Multiple opportunities across Canada to qualify for the 2026 CNPL Draft on January 27. Five qualifier events from November to December plus automatic qualification paths.