Quick Start – How to Play in Gateway Smash
- League Chat → Join the GroupMe Chatroom for announcements, sub requests, and updates.
- Register & Pay ($50) → Join on Global Pickleball Network. Payment is handled through PayPal.
- Check-In Each Week → Arrive 10 minutes early. Scan in at Arch Pickleball using your CourtReserve barcode. Tell the desk you’re with Gateway Smash. Subs must say who they’re filling in for.
- Find a Sub if You’re Out → If you can’t make it, find a substitute of similar skill level. Enter scores under the original player’s name.
- Match Format → Play 3 rotating doubles matches (pods of 4). Scores are reported in GPN by a team captain.
- Elo Ranking → Wins/losses adjust your ladder rating. Upsets = biggest jumps.
- DUPR (Optional, Recommended) → Free, easy, helps your rating travel with you. Sign Up & Link with GPN.
💡 Motivation
Gateway Smash was created as a response to frustrations with previous STL pickleball leagues — many of which charged $150–$175 for a season, used outdoor courts prone to cancellations, and felt disorganized or inconsistent.
I wanted to build a grassroots, player-friendly alternative that focuses on community, fairness, and affordability — without sacrificing structure or competition.
Gateway Smash is:
- 100% volunteer-run — no one is making money
- Powered by free tools like GroupMe, Notion, ChatGPT, and Global Pickleball Network
- Played indoors at Arch Pickleball, so matches happen rain or shine
- Designed to be easy to manage and scale while staying fun and welcoming
All fees go directly toward court rental, and we’re using existing platforms to keep things simple and cost-effective for everyone involved.