Pickleball Australia Partners with Pickle Pro Labs to Launch Paddle Testing Nationwide

Pickleball Australia (PA), the peak body for pickleball in Australia, has entered into an exclusive partnership with Boca Raton, Florida based Pickle Pro Labs (PPL) to roll out on-site paddle testing across sanctioned tournaments and leagues in Australia beginning early 2026. Australia will be one of the first countries outside the United States to adopt this system.

“This partnership addresses one of the most consistent concerns raised by our members—paddle integrity,” said Brendan Lee, Executive Officer for Pickleball Australia. “With the right technology now available, we can ensure a fair and safe playing field for all levels of competition.”

At the centre of the rollout is The Go-No-Go (GNG) machine, a portable compliance testing tool modelled after devices already in use at U.S. professional events. The GNG measures paddle deflection, or face stiffness, to identify paddles that exceed allowable performance levels. This quick and objective test helps detect counterfeit, illegally modified, or excessively worn paddles that may give players an unfair advantage.

The testing also mitigates the effects of Accelerated Break-In (ABI)—the process by which paddles gain additional speed or power after heavy use. By standardizing deflection testing on-site, tournaments can protect the integrity of play and ensure athletes compete on a level playing field.

While the initial focus will be sanctioned tournaments and leagues, PA plans to make the service available to clubs nationwide. “We see enormous value in giving clubs access to paddle testing,” Lee said. “It promotes fairness, safety, transparency, and ultimately strengthens trust in the sport.”

"Pickleball is evoling rapidly, and at the elite level, even small advantages can change a match," said Tim Joiner, CEO of PPA Tour Australia. "Paddle testing allows us to preserve the spirit of the game while still supporting innovation. Players deserve to know that when they step on court, they're competing on equal terms."

About Pickle Pro Labs

Pickle Pro Labs was founded by sports equipment experts with decades of experience in standards development, compliance, and testing across golf, baseball, softball, football, and tennis. The company partners with governing bodies worldwide to establish unified pickleball performance standards and to protect the sport’s rapid growth.

About Pickleball Australia

Pickleball Australia (PA) is the peak body for pickleball in Australia, representing over 22,000 financial members and 350 affiliates nationwide. PA works with State Member Associations, affiliates and partners to grow the sport and is committed to making pickleball one of Australia’s most accessible and popular participation sports. Learn more at www.pickleballaus.org.