BY CHRIS BEAUMONT, EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
January has proven to be a bustling month for the Scottish pickleball community. From the announcement of major national championships to grassroots milestones in the Highlands and emotional charity tributes, the courts across Scotland have been hives of activity. Here is your roundup of the key events and announcements that defined the start of the year.
The Scottish Open 2026: The Countdown Begins
The biggest news coming out of Pickleball Scotland this month is the release of the provisional timetable for the Scottish Open 2026. The prestigious event is scheduled to run from Wednesday, May 27th, to Sunday, May 31st, promising five days of intense competition.
Organisers have structured the week to showcase a wide variety of categories:
- Seniors: The event kicks off May 27–28 with Women’s, Men’s, and Mixed Doubles for the 50+ and 60+ age brackets.
- Inclusivity: Thursday, May 28th, will feature Wheelchair Doubles for all ages.
- Open and Youth: The weekend heats up with Singles and skill-capped doubles on Friday, followed by the 18+ and Youth (12–17) events on Saturday and Sunday.
Players hoping to compete need to act fast. Entries officially open Sunday, February 1st, at 2:00 pm (14:00). Competitors are reminded that they may enter a maximum of three events, comprising one mixed, one gender doubles, and one singles match. Organisers have also issued a strict warning to ignore third-party advertising on the Tournament Software site and strictly use the official entry links provided by Pickleball Scotland.
Tournament Fever: Auld Reekie and East Lothian
While the Scottish Open looms on the horizon, competitive play is already well underway in Edinburgh. The annual Auld Reekie Pickleball Festival took over the Meadowbank Sports Centre this month. Reports from the courts described an atmosphere filled with “fun and laughter” alongside “seriously fierce competition”.
Organisers noted that due to the usual withdrawals common at this time of year, players on the waiting list should monitor their emails closely for last-minute spots.
In emotional news from East Lothian, entries opened for The Dave Strang East of Scotland Open Tournament. This event invites players from across the country to celebrate the legacy of a much-loved community member while raising funds for charity. It promises to be a day of “competitive yet friendly pickleball,” though entrants are advised to coordinate closely with their teammates: both partners must register within 24 hours of each other to secure a main draw spot.
Grassroots Growth: Anniversaries and Ambassadors
Up north, Grampian Pickleball Club is preparing to celebrate a major milestone: five years since the club’s very first session. To mark the occasion, they are hosting a festival with entries opening on February 8, 2026.
The region is also seeing a surge in coaching infrastructure. In Moray, 19 new Local Ambassadors have completed their training. These newly minted champions are now ready to head into schools and communities to spread the game.
In the west, Phoenix Pickleball Club in Easterhouse reported a “buzzing” atmosphere with 17 players on court last Thursday, highlighting the strong community energy. The club continues to lower barriers to entry with sessions priced at just £3 and all equipment provided. Meanwhile, South Lanarkshire Disability Sport announced that Mike from East Kilbride Pickleball Club would be joining their inclusive multisport session, further strengthening ties between local clubs and inclusive sports programs.
Player Spotlight
Finally, a massive congratulations to John Overdijking of Scotstoun Pickleball Club. John was pictured this month receiving his Club Coach Award from Professor Nanette Mutrie. It is a well-deserved recognition for a volunteer coach dedicated to growing the game.
With the Scottish Open registration imminent and local festivals thriving, 2026 is shaping up to be a landmark year for Scottish pickleball.
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Chris Beaumont
Founder and Editor-in-ChiefChris Beaumont is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of World Pickleball Magazine. Chris follows the global game closely, reporting on the latest news, developments, stories and tournaments from all five continents. He also hosts the World Pickleball Podcast, interviewing people at…
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