People new to pickleball usually play and stay on their local courts, such as the Carrie Blake Park courts, home to Sequim Picklers. You know everyone, they know you, and you feel comfortable playing on the home courts.

Some picklers like to play for fun and exercise, while others, like me, want something more challenging. I find every game away from home court is a new adventure, and if you are looking for new adventures as well, then sign up for your first away tournament.

So, what are the steps to playing in your first tournament?

First, you need to find the tournament. Websites like pickleballbrackets.com, the USA Pickleball website, or PIG (Pickleball Is Great) are great resources for finding local and nationwide tournaments. Another way to find a tournament is through social media. Follow local pickleball Facebook groups or other online communities for updates on local and regional events.

Second, to determine your skill level, sign up for DUPR and/or UTR (pickleball rating sites). Most tournaments, especially higher-level and national tournaments, require a rating. Knowing your pickleball rating will help you choose the appropriate division to sign up for.

If you don’t have a rating because you haven’t played in a tournament, you can either get one through a pickleball pro (you can find several by contacting the Sequim Picklers), self-rate your skills based on online guidelines, or participate in local leagues or club ladder matches to gauge your level. You also need to link Pickleball Brackets with your DUPR.

Third, you need to decide what type of match to sign up for. Are singles your thing, or would you rather play doubles or mixed doubles? Singles might seem easy; they’re just you against one opponent. But singles are not for the faint of heart. You better believe in yourself and your abilities!

Logistics for mixed and doubles may be more challenging. You must choose a partner who is willing to play with you and willing to travel to the tournament. I have found this to be the hardest part. Look around and find someone who plays similarly to you and is close to your level of play. Then, communicate with your potential partner to discuss goals, expectations, and on-court chemistry.

If you still can’t find a partner, you can sign up for the tournament before finding a partner. After signing up, you can find a partner by going to the tournament website and clicking on “players needing a partner.” This is called Finding a Blind Date!

Choosing a blind date can be great — or not. For example, before the second National tournament in Mesa, Arizona, I found a blind date for women’s doubles. We had never met or played together, but we ended up winning gold!

However, you may end up with a partner who claims they play at your level, but when you are out on the courts, they disappoint you. Maybe they didn’t tell you that they are due for double knee surgery in a week and can’t move well. Finally, they may be rude, which makes the tournament unenjoyable.

Next, visit the tournament’s official website or event page to register. Make sure to register early to secure a spot, as tournaments have deadlines. Registration fees can be anywhere from $45 to $100. Local tournaments are usually less expensive. If you can already register with a partner, then now is the time to book a hotel room if needed. Book early for better rates.

After registering and securing a partner, get ready for the tournament by practicing and training. If your partner lives in another area, you may have to meet somewhere in between where you both live to practice. Try to practice with the ball they will use; all tournaments list the type of ball. You might also consider hiring a coach for a doubles session to work on skills.

Most people tend to focus on the physical aspect of the game, but mental preparation is just as important, especially for singles players. You need to manage expectations, stay calm, and focus on one point at a time. Remember to have fun, it’s just pickleball!

Besides physical and mental preparation, there is rest, hydration, and nutrition. You may have to play for six hours. Decide what you are going to drink and eat before, during, and after the game.

Gear and essentials are another consideration. To keep things simple, bring essential items such as a backup paddle, extra clothing, and a water bottle. Pack snacks and electrolytes to stay energized.

I hope that by following these tips, you’ll be well prepared for the pickleball tournament experience. The next Sequim Picklers Tournament is the “Blue Hole” in September — hope to see you there. Good luck and have fun!