Pickleball Tournament Rules

KCSMW Pickleball Tournament 2026 – Event Guide

Kerala Cultural Society of Metropolitan Washington (KCSMW)

1. Event Overview

The Kerala Cultural Society of Metropolitan Washington (KCSMW) proudly presents the 2026 Pickleball Tournament. Players of all experience levels are welcome.

2. Eligibility Requirements
  • Teams must consist of two players.

  • Both players must be of Kerala origin.

  • Doubles format only; no singles.

  • Verification may be requested.

  • False representation may result in disqualification.

3. Venue & Schedule

Location: Dill Dinkers Pickleball, 8300 Sudley Rd Unit A4, Manassas, VA 20109
Date: May 2, 2026
Time: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Players should arrive at least 15 minutes early. Late arrivals after the first-round matches may forfeit participation.

4. Registration & Fees
  • Registration must be completed on the KCSMW website: https://kcsmw.org/event/pickleball-tournament/

  • Each player must register separately.

  • $25 for a single category and $40 for two categories.

  • Organizers may adjust deadlines or categories based on participation.

5. Tournament Categories
  • Men’s Doubles

  • Women’s Doubles

  • Mixed Doubles

6. Skill Rating – Self Assessment (DUPR)
LevelDUPR Range
Beginner / Advanced Beginner 1.0 – 2.9 
Intermediate 3.0 – 3.9 
Advanced 4.0 – 4.9 
Pro 5.0 – 8.0 

Used for grouping and competitive balance.

7. Tournament Format
Group Stage and Pre-Quarter
  • Single game to 11 points.

  • Win by 1 point.

  • A 15-minute time limit will be applied; the leading team wins if time expires.

  • If tied at the time limit, the next point wins.

Quarter Finals & Semi Finals
  • Single game to 15 points.

  • Win by 1 point.

  • A 30-minute time limit will be applied; the leading team wins if time expires.

  • If tied at the time limit, the next point wins.

Finals
  • No time limit.

  • Best of 3 games to 11.

  • Win by 1 point.

8. Key Game Rules
  • Players should be present and ready, and must report at least 10 minutes before the scheduled start time.

  • All players must complete a paper waiver form at the venue before the first game.

Serving
  • Underhand stroke with upward arc.

  • Contact below the waist.

  • Paddle head below wrist.

  • Serve diagonally crosscourt.

  • The 10-second serve rule applies.

  • A drop serve is also permitted; in that case, the above serve elements do not apply, but the ball cannot be thrown or propelled downward.

Two-Bounce Rule
  • Serve must bounce.

  • Return must bounce.

  • Volleys are allowed afterward.

Non-Volley Zone (Kitchen)
  • 7-foot zone from the net.

  • No volleying inside the kitchen or touching the line.

  • The momentum rule applies.

  • Entry is allowed only when not volleying.

Line Calls
  • Any ball touching a line is IN.

  • A serve touching the kitchen line is a fault.

Fault Examples
  • Ball out or not clearing the net.

  • Volleying in the kitchen.

  • Serve or return before bounce.

  • The ball bounces twice.

  • Player or paddle touches the net.

  • Illegal serve motion.

  • Ball striking player or equipment.

9. Conduct & Safety

All players and spectators must:

  • Show respect to referees, volunteers, and opponents.

  • Use clean language; no harassment or threats.

  • Play safely and avoid dangerous actions.

Penalties may include warnings, point penalties, game loss, or removal.

Safety Notice:

  • Participation is at your own risk.

  • KCSMW and the venue are not liable for injuries or property loss.

  • Players are responsible for hydration, stretching, proper footwear, and optional protective eyewear.

10. Event Flow

Group Stage → Pre-Quarter → Quarter Finals → Semi Finals → Finals

Advancement is based on:

  • Wins.

  • Point differential.

  • Head-to-head results.

Teams must report promptly to assigned courts. Officials will record and submit match results.

11. Dill Dinkers Code of Conduct & Facility Rules
Code of Conduct
  • Always exhibit good sportsmanship.

  • No portable speakers or music in the gym.

  • Never direct abuse at others.

  • Be mindful of noise levels.

  • Do not throw or mishandle equipment.

  • Respect players of all skill levels.

  • Make correct line calls; if unsure, call the ball in.

  • Do not enter a court during an active point.

  • Stop play for unsafe situations.

  • Warn adjacent courts if your ball rolls over.

  • Wear proper attire and non-marking shoes.

  • Eye protection is recommended.

  • Take responsibility for guests and family.

  • Do not play under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

  • Register for the appropriate level; venue may adjust placement.

Rules & Regulations
  • Arrive 10 minutes before your scheduled time.

  • Check in at the front desk before entering courts.

  • Wait outside court gates until your assigned time.

  • Bring your own paddles and balls.

  • Be mindful of your reserved time.

  • Take all belongings when leaving.

  • No gum, food, or drink except water on the courts.

  • Food and drinks are allowed only in the café area.

  • Clean your area before leaving.

  • Maximum of 6 people allowed per court.

12. Contact

KCSMW Sports Committee
sports@kcsmw.org