Imagine This: A National Pickleball Combine for the Next Generation of Pro Talent

We’ve seen what the NFL Combine can do, the vertical jumps, the 40-yard dashes, the shuttle runs, the media buzz. It’s a high-stakes, high-performance showcase of raw athleticism.

But what if we brought that same energy to pickleball?

That’s right — a Pickleball Combine. A high-performance testing ground designed to measure reflexes, control, finesse, and footwork — the core skills that make or break players on the court.

And here’s the twist: NFL players (current or retired) might dominate it.

The Crossover Is Real: Pickleball and the NFL

You might be thinking, “Football and pickleball? Totally different sports.” True. But hear us out:

● Explosive first steps? Necessary for both.

● Anticipation and footwork? Cornerbacks and pickleball players live on it.

● Hand speed and reaction time? Linebackers, meet the kitchen line.

● Lateral movement and change of direction? That’s basically every rally in pickleball.

We’ve already seen former pros like Drew Brees, Larry Fitzgerald, and Tom Brady investing in Major League Pickleball. Some of them are even playing. So the connection is growing — fast.

Building the Pickleball Combine

Here’s how we’d design a Pickleball Combine to test the raw potential of any athlete — football player or not:

1. Reaction Time Test

Players respond to randomized ball launches, testing pure reflex speed. Think of it like the Wonderlic for your paddle.

2. The Dink Control Drill

A test of precision and patience — dink 20 balls into specific zones in under 60 seconds. Accuracy under pressure? Sound familiar, quarterbacks?

3. Lateral Speed Shuffle

Side-to-side movement simulating kitchen line defense. Measured by foot speed, endurance, and balance.

NFL Parallel: A 5-10-5 shuttle on the court.

4. Serve Speed and Accuracy Radar

Serve with power and place it in a tight window — every inch counts.

5. Kitchen Pressure Test

Simulated “hand battles” at the net. Points awarded for successful volleys under rapid-fire situations. This is where the athletes separate from the hobbyists.

6. The “Endless Rally” Endurance Drill

Hold a rally for as long as possible, footwork, focus, and conditioning are key.

Why It Would Work

Just like the NFL Combine highlights future stars, a Pickleball Combine would:

● Discover elite talent early

● Attract cross-sport athletes (NFL, tennis, basketball)

● Feed the growing pro circuits like Major League Pickleball

● Grow fan engagement with a data-driven, media-ready format

And with pickleball booming globally, with Pickleball in Australia, the UK,  New Zealand and many more countries now’s the time to capitalise.

Final Thoughts: What’s the 40 Time of a Dinker?

Okay, that’s a joke — kind of.

But imagine the buzz: Players competing side-by-side. The Pickleball Combine could be the ultimate proving ground, media event, and scouting tool.

Whether you’re an NFL prospect looking for an edge, a retired pro craving competition, or a weekend warrior just discovering the game, pickleball is your next move. With its explosive growth, pro leagues, and athletic crossover appeal, it’s more than just a trend — it’s a movement.