Partnership Overview
On 13 October 2026, Dinkers Pickleball Academy disclosed a landmark strategic partnership with the internationally recognised D‑Joy Sports Academy. The collaboration is designed to introduce world‑class high‑performance pickleball training, international tournament circuits and athlete exchange programmes to India.
Coaching Collaboration
Head Coach Dhiren Patel of Dinkers and Head Coach Kyle Yates of D‑Joy – a multi‑time champion and former World No 1 – will jointly design specialised training modules that focus on transition‑zone resets, advanced dinking strategies and third‑shot drops. They will also deliver intensive masterclasses and conduct on‑court coaching clinics across key Indian metros, with Kyle Yates making regular visits to Dinkers for legend‑level sessions.
Tournament and Exchange Initiatives
Starting in 2027, Dinkers will host two legs of the prestigious D‑Joy Tour on Indian soil, providing domestic talent direct access to elite international competition. The partnership further establishes a bilateral Indo‑Vietnam tournament series to strengthen regional sporting ties and deliver high‑stakes match play for top players. Structured player exchange programmes will enable leading Indian athletes to train at D‑Joy’s international facilities, while an international coach exchange will see senior D‑Joy coaching staff conduct regular camps to up‑skill grassroots and academy trainers throughout India.
Leadership Statements
Dhiren Patel said, “Indian players possess exceptional natural reflexes, speed, and hunger to win. Partnering with a global legend like Kyle Yates and D‑Joy Sports Academy brings proven international tactical frameworks and high‑stakes tournament pathways directly to India. From hosting two D‑Joy Tour legs to player exchanges and bilateral series with Vietnam, this collaboration is built to place Indian athletes consistently on international podiums.”
Kyle Yates added, “India is one of the most exciting, high‑potential pickleball markets in the world. Dinkers Academy has built an incredible foundation, and together, we are putting a comprehensive, world‑class high‑performance ecosystem in place. Whether through our tour stops, coaching clinics, or player exchanges, we are committed to helping Indian athletes compete and win against the very best globally.”
About the Academies
Dinkers Pickleball Academy is a premier Indian academy focused on professional athlete development, grassroots expansion, state‑of‑the‑art infrastructure and the growth of competitive pickleball nationwide. D‑Joy Sports Academy, led by former World No 1 Kyle Yates, delivers elite high‑performance coaching, tactical bootcamps and professional circuit preparation across Asia and beyond.