Austin Ignite, Palm Beach Royals, and Suncoast Pelicans Capture Division Titles to Close Out the 2026 Season
The MLP Champions Series concluded its 2026 season in Dallas, crowning three division champions following a weekend of high-level team pickleball at Pickler Universe in Carrollton.
Austin Ignite captured the Prime Division (40+) title, Palm Beach Royals claimed the Premier Division (50+) championship and Suncoast Pelicans took home the Masters Division (60+) crown.
The championship event brought together the league's top teams and players after a season of competition across the country, with each division culminating in a final TeamBattle to determine its 2026 champion.
"This championship weekend was an incredible way to close out the 2026 season and a reflection of the level of competition we've seen throughout the year," said Rod Davis, CEO of MLP Champions Series. "Congratulations to our three championship teams and to every player, owner, and partner who helped make this season possible. The talent and competitiveness across all three divisions continues to raise the bar, and there’s no question that the best talent plays in the Champions Series. We're excited about where our series is headed and our continued partnership with MLP."
Prime Division (40+): Austin Ignite
Austin Ignite captured the 2026 Prime Division championship over Seattle Tsunami in a TeamBreaker. Competition was tight throughout the division, with the third-place match also decided in a TeamBreaker.
Premier Division (50+): Palm Beach Royals
The No. 4-seeded Palm Beach Royals captured the 2026 Premier Division championship over Suncoast Pelicans, with the title coming down to the final mixed doubles match. The Royals advanced to the championship after defeating the previously undefeated Houston Hammers in a TeamBreaker. The third-place match was also decided in a TeamBreaker.
Masters Division (60+): Suncoast Pelicans
Suncoast Pelicans captured the 2026 Masters Division championship over Denver Iconics in a closely contested matchup, with the title coming down to the final mixed doubles match.
The 2026 MLP Champions Series championship matches will also be broadcast on PickleballTV, giving fans the opportunity to watch all three division titles. The Masters Division (60+) Championship will air November 9th, followed by the Prime Division (40+) Championship on November 16th and the Premier Division (50+) Championship on November 23rd. Check pickeballtv.com for details.
About MLP Champions Series
Champions Series Pickleball, formerly the National Pickleball League (NPL), is the premier professional league for Champions Pros. Entering its 4th season, CSP has approximately 330 Champion Pro players representing 16 teams across age group divisions for pros 40+, 50+, and 60+. For more information, visit champions-series.com.
