How the APP Tour Paved the Way for Junior Pickleball
When the APP Tour launched its Next Gen Series in 2021, it gave young players a real place to compete, grow, and feel recognized.
Back then, few were talking about youth development in pickleball. The game was still considered a retiree pastime for many, and most tournaments weren’t exactly built with teenagers in mind. But the APP Next Gen Series saw what others didn’t: a rising generation ready to train, grow, and contribute to the game in their own way.
From the start, the goal has never been only to develop future pros. It’s also about creating a lasting sense of community for younger players.
“Nothing makes me more proud than to provide a platform for young players to learn, grow and immerse themselves in a first-rate experience to begin their pickleball careers.” – Ken Herrmann, APP Founder
A Path That Puts Players First
The Next Gen Series was the first of its kind: a mentorship-based competition series specifically for players aged 16 to 23. Designed in partnership with Chicken N Pickle, these three-day events mix tournament play with professional coaching, skill development, and yes… real prize money. Entry is invite-only, and players are selected based on rankings, UTR profiles, and overall developmental potential. See how to get involved here.
What stands out is how intentional the program is. The APP helps players build confidence, understand the sport’s structure, and grow through consistent support from coaches like Ken Herrmann, Chad Edwards, and Lee Whitwell.
And for those who go even further, there’s the APP U.S. National Team: a select group of players who train at The Fort, the APP’s headquarters in Fort Lauderdale. The team received international travel opportunities, coaching, and advanced training – a dream setup for players hoping to take their game global.
Photo Credit: The APP
“Being part of the APP Next Gen U.S. National Team is a huge honor. Not only does it create even more friendships for me, it also provides great coaching. It has been an honor to be coached by Ken and especially Chad, who has always been there for me and has helped me in any way possible that he can.” – Riley Bohnert, APP Next Gen U.S. National Team Member.
Why This Kind of Support Matter
It’s one thing to host a youth bracket. It’s another to center youth as a core part of your mission.
Not every kid has a private coach or unlimited travel budget. And not every player wants to go pro. APP Next Gen gives players a chance to grow in their own way. Some aim for the podium, while others use it to build confidence and find connection.
Photo Credit: The APP
Empower Pickleball exists because we believe everyone deserves a chance. We believe in making space for the players who might otherwise feel left out or overlooked. And we believe the more the sport shows up for young players, especially from underrepresented backgrounds, the stronger our pickleball community becomes.
The future of pickleball should welcome everyone, not just those with the right connections or credentials.
Other Youth-Focused Programs Worth Knowing
The APP isn’t the only one investing in the next generation. Here are a few more organizations helping junior players find their place in the game:
National Junior Pickleball (NJP) hosts inclusive, skill based tournaments for youth ages 8 to 18 that blend competitive play with community. Each event features round-robin brackets, free swag, a prize wall, and podium ceremonies – while encouraging kids to build connections, grow as players, and enjoy the sport on and off the court.
Junior PPA supports young athletes through development-focused events, skill-building opportunities, and social connection. The program runs alongside select PPA Tour stops and is open to players aged 16 and under who want to grow in a positive, competitive environment.
APP Junior Circuit is the newest APP initiative, designed for players under 18, and delivers a top-tier tournament experience. Players earn ranking points and receive a custom APP Junior Circuit rating. All participants are eligible for the Junior National Championships, held each December at The Fort in Fort Lauderdale.
