ABOUT
VPA
Enriching the physical and mental lives of all Veterans and their families through competition in the fastest growing sport in the world, pickleball.
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OUR MISSION
The Veterans Pickleball Association (VPA) is a national 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.The mission of the VPA is to enrich the physical, mental and competitive lives of Veterans, Wounded Warriors, First Responders and their family members through the sportsmanship, camaraderie and lifestyle of the fastest growing sport in the world,..Pickleball.
WHAT
WE DO
Annually, the VPA Tour will host amateur and professional tournaments,fundraising exhibitions, pro-ams and clinics across the country, culminating in a VPA Armed Forces Pickle Bowl National Championships.
Our goal is to give Veterans, Wounded Warriors, First Responders and their family members an opportunity to develop more active lifestyles, build new healthy relationships, and provide a competitive outlet at all levels through the game of pickleball.
WHO IS
ELIGIBLE
Active duty, retirees, and honorably discharged members of the armed forces that are either amateur or professional pickleball players are eligible to join and compete on the VPA Tour events and tournaments. Active or retired First Responders (Fire Rescue and Police) and their families are also eligible to join the VPA Tour
However, professional APP, PPA, MLP, NPL or open pros must compete in the Pro Divisions regardless of their DUPR or UTR rankings. Additionally, any family members whose grandparents, parents, spouse, siblings, aunts/uncles, nieces/nephews, have served in the armed forces or served as First Responders are eligible to compete in the VPA Family Division. Pro Division entries are priced higher when prize money versus medals are awarded.
Wounded Warriors, Purple Heart veterans and military adaptive pickleball players will compete in respective divisions. Seniors 50+ will compete in skill level and age level divisions at VPA Sanctioned Tounaments.
Spouses and dependents (12+) of Veterans or First Responders are encouraged to apply for VPA membership to join their loved ones on the pickleball courts.
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WHAT IS THE COST
Local South Florida VPA Tour
The VPA Tour lasts from July 1st – June 30th each year. VGA membership subscriptions are $49 per person and are auto-renewed on July 1st each year.
During the regular VPA Tour season, the VPA charges members a reduced $50 registration fee per tournament, which is used to help the VPA cover the administrative costs of running the organization. (Non-member fees range from $95-120 at most events)
At each tournament, VPA members are also expected to pay the tournament event fees directly for singles, gender doubles or mixed doubles competitions. Fees vary per tournament and location based on site fees. (@40-50 per event is standard)
VPA members can compete in any VPA Tour event across the country, regardless of the region in which they reside. VPA members compete in one of five divisions – Male Veterans, Female Veterans, Combat Wounded (Purple Hearts Only), Family, and Senior. Each division is further broken down on a player’s age and skill level.
PROGRAMS & SERVICES
At VPA, we offer a variety of programs and projects aimed at promoting physical and mental well-being through pickleball. Our initiatives are designed to create a supportive and engaging community for Veterans and their families. We continuously strive to enhance the lives of our members through the power of pickleball.
Veterans' Tournaments
Our Veterans' tournaments are aimed at providing a platform for camaraderie, competition, and growth. We organize competitive events that foster a sense of community and purpose among Veterans and their families, ensuring a fulfilling and empowering experience for all participants.
Social Impact Projects
Family Events
We are dedicated to contributing to forest restoration efforts and environmental policy advocacy. Our social impact projects aim to create a positive effect on the environment and society. By engaging in conservation and community restoration initiatives, we strive to make a meaningful difference in the world.
We understand the importance of family support in the lives of Veterans. That's why we organize family events that promote bonding, fun, and togetherness. These events are designed to create lasting memories and strengthen the familial ties within the Veterans community.
PARTNERS
We are proud to partner and collaborate with organizations and individuals who share our vision of supporting Veterans and their families. Together, we strive to create meaningful partnerships that contribute to the well-being and success of our community.