SAMPE’s newest student competition brings materials engineering out of the lab and onto the court. Design and fabricate a pickleball paddle that blends performance, creativity, and craftsmanship, then see how it stacks up through expert judging and on-site testing at SAMPE Seattle 2026.
Objective
Challenge yourself with real-world materials engineering.
The Student Pickleball Paddle Design Competition challenges SAMPE student chapters to design and fabricate a paddle with a unique engineering approach. Teams apply materials science, manufacturing methods, and structural performance principles to create paddles that balance stiffness, playability, and visual design.
Entries are evaluated for originality, utility, appearance, and mechanical performance through standardized stiffness testing conducted live at SAMPE Seattle 2026.
Benefits of Participation
What you'll gain from this hands-on competition
This competition offers hands-on experience translating materials and processing decisions into a real consumer product. Students gain exposure to experimental testing methods, poster-based technical communication, and direct feedback from industry professionals. Participants also showcase their work on a global stage, compete for awards recognizing innovation and fabrication excellence, and build a portfolio project that demonstrates applied engineering beyond the classroom.
Hands-On Experience
Translate materials science into a real consumer product from concept to fabrication
Portfolio Development
Build a standout project demonstrating applied engineering skills beyond the classroom
Present your work through posters and receive direct feedback from industry experts
Technical Communication
See your design tested through standardized stiffness testing at SAMPE Seattle 2026
Live Testing
Global Recognition
Showcase your innovation on an international stage and compete for prestigious awards
Professional Networking
Connect with materials engineering professionals and fellow student innovators
Questions?
Need help with your application? Contact SAMPE at info@sampe.org or by phone at +1.626.521.9460