BOCA RATON, FL (BocaNewsNow.com) (Copyright © 2026 MetroDesk Media, LLC) — The Palm Beach Royals are making history as the first Major League Pickleball franchise to officially join forces with a Champions Series team. Following the acquisition and full integration of the Boca Surge, the organization has announced the formation of the Palm Beach Royals Champions. This move marks a significant milestone in the sport, representing the first time a professional franchise has unified its standard and senior-level operations under one organizational roof.
Managing Partner of Hyperspace Ventures and Royals co-owner Zach Hunter noted that the move is far more than just a simple rebrand. According to Hunter, the merger represents a new model of alignment between the sport’s rising stars and the veteran players who originally built the foundation for pickleball’s current popularity. By bringing these two worlds together, the organization aims to create a streamlined era of growth where branding, media, and competitive resources are shared across the entire team ecosystem.
The Champions Series, formerly known as the National Pickleball League, serves as an elite platform for senior professionals in the 40+, 50+, and 60+ age divisions. This integration follows a landmark partnership between Major League Pickleball and Champions Series Pickleball intended to boost visibility for senior athletes on a much larger stage. The new structure will feature a 16-team league with multiple events throughout the season, often running alongside standard MLP tournaments, culminating in a season-ending championship event.
With Palm Beach rapidly becoming a primary hub for the sport, the Royals are positioning themselves to represent pickleball at every competitive level. Hunter emphasized that the Champions team is primed for success thanks to a massive local player base and strong community engagement in the South Florida area. By bridging the gap between the legends of the game and its future stars, the Palm Beach Royals Champions are setting a new standard for how the sport will continue to expand nationwide.
