Investment Overview $5,000

The $5,000 team investment covers your entry into the league for one full season (approximately 20 weeks) and includes:

• Official Team Registration: Recognition as one of the city-based UPL teams competing in your regional division.
• League Marketing: Team promotion on the UPL website, social channels, and official publications.
• Match Management: Scheduling, officiating, and league coordination for your matches.
• Player Draft Access: Ability to select and manage your roster from the VAIR-verified athlete pool.
• Championship Eligibility: Qualify for playoff rounds and the national championship event in Omaha.

Team Financial Responsibilities

While the league provides structure and exposure, each team is responsible for managing certain direct expenses — many of which can be offset through sponsors or junior development programs.

Uniforms

• Teams are required to purchase official Leorever uniforms for players.
• The league reimburses 10% of uniform costs to the team immediately.

Player Verification

• All players on the roster must be VAIR-verified athletes.
• The verification fee is $59 per player (a player pays for this), ensuring integrity and consistency across all divisions.

Optional Paid Pros

• Teams may choose to add up to two 5.5+ rated professional players to strengthen their roster.
• These paid pros receive $1,500 per month each during the regular season.
• Hiring paid pros is optional and not required for participation.

Travel

• Teams are responsible for travel costs to their regional hub for competition.
• This generally includes fuel and local transportation expenses; lodging is not typically required due to regional scheduling.

Funding Options

• Most out-of-pocket costs can be covered through local sponsors or your Junior Development program, which can operate under your team’s brand and help fund uniforms, travel, or pro contracts.

Revenue Opportunities

Team ownership is also designed to create revenue potential for those who want to grow their brand:

• Merchandise Sales: Teams earn 10% of all sales from their branded merchandise purchased by fans.
• Sponsorships: Local businesses can sponsor your team, appearing on uniforms, banners, or digital platforms.
• Junior Development: Teams can build youth clinics or community programs that both grow local engagement and offset costs.

Season Format

Each UPL season runs roughly 20 weeks, structured within regional divisions:

• Regular Season: 30+ matches per team (home and away) within your regional pod. 
• Playoffs: Top teams advance to the UPL National Championship.
• Optional Junior & Senior Divisions: Build local pipelines under your team’s identity.

Why Join

Becoming a UPL Team Owner isn’t just about playing the game — it’s about building a legacy in your city. The league’s structure allows owners to:

• Develop a profitable local franchise.
• Build community engagement through youth and sponsor partnerships.
• Showcase verified athletes and grow regional pickleball talent.