Tournaments
Tournament play pushes you in ways rec play can’t. You face unfamiliar opponents, different styles, and real pressure points. It’s one of the fastest ways to identify strengths, weaknesses, and areas to improve.
The games tend to be tighter, more strategic, and more rewarding.
Tournaments give you a clear benchmark. How you perform compared to past events—or against players you recognize—helps you see how far your game has come (or what still needs work).
Playing locally helps tournaments succeed, supports organizers, grows the sport in your area, and leads to better events, more divisions, and stronger competition over time.
The Farm hosts two popular pickleball tournaments annually, one in the spring (FARM Spring Pickleball Smash) and one in the fall (FARM Autumn Pickleball Invitational). Catering to a wide range of players, the tournaments offer singles, doubles, and mixed doubles divisions, ensuring that everyone can find their perfect match.
Skill levels span from 2.5 to 4.5+, accommodating both novice and seasoned players. Additionally, age-specific divisions are available for 18+, 40+, 50+ and 60+, fostering a competitive yet inclusive environment for all ages.
FARM Spring Pickleball Smash
FARM Pickleball Autumn Invitational
The Duke Faculty Club proudly hosts two premier pickleball tournaments each year, anchored by a flagship fall event and complemented by a competitive spring classic:
The Devilish Dinkers Classic opens the outdoor pickleball season at DFC with strong competition, deep brackets, and an energetic atmosphere. This spring tournament is a true test of skill and a tone-setter for the year, bringing together players ready to compete at a high level after the winter months. Pickle For Pink is DFC’s signature pickleball tournament and the heart of our annual pickleball calendar. The 2026 season will mark the 4th annual Pickle For Pink, continuing a tradition that blends high-level competition with meaningful community impact in support of breast cancer awareness. It is our largest, most anticipated event of the year, known for its competitive play, strong participation, and purpose-driven mission. Together, these tournaments showcase the best of pickleball at the Duke Faculty Club—competitive, community-focused, and rooted in tradition.
