Shamrock Shootout Returns to Chicago for St. Patrick’s Day Weekend
The PapaNicholas Shamrock Shootout returns to the Chicago area this weekend as one of the most festive and exciting stops on the International Racquetball Tour calendar.
Traditionally held during St. Patrick’s Day weekend, the tournament has long been a favorite among players and fans alike. Visitors traveling to the event can experience one of Chicago’s most famous traditions — watching the Chicago River dyed green on Saturday morning as the city celebrates the holiday.
A New Venue for 2026
In recent years the Shamrock Shootout has historically been held at the Glass Court Swim and Fitness club, this year’s tournament moves back to Schaumburg Tennis Plus, operated by IRT President Dave Negrete. This venue was also home to the glass court event ran by president Dave Negrete in his first tenure as commissioner!
The new venue provides a fresh setting for the tournament while maintaining the same high-level competition that has made the event a staple on the tour.
A Stacked Professional Draw
The professional field features 37 players, including all Top 13 players in the world, ensuring that every round of the tournament will feature high-level matchups.
With so many top players competing, fans can expect dramatic matches from the opening rounds through championship Sunday.
Flores vs Parrilla: A Matchup to Watch
One of the most intriguing early-round matchups will feature Jhonatan Flores taking on Andree Parrilla in the Round of 16.
Flores recently delivered a breakout performance in Minnesota, defeating Parrilla in dominant fashion 15-1, 15-4.
However, the history between the two players tells a different story. In their previous two meetings before Minnesota, Parrilla edged Flores 11-10 in the tiebreaker both times.
With both players capable of explosive performances, their matchup could once again be one of the highlights of the weekend.
The Rivalry at the Top
After the dramatic finish at the Minnesota KWM Hall of Fame Tournament, all eyes remain on the growing rivalry between Kane Waselenchuk and Conrrado Moscoso.
Moscoso enters the Shamrock Shootout having won four consecutive IRT events, defeating Kane three times during that stretch.
But their last meeting in Minnesota was anything but predictable.
Kane opened the finals by winning the first game 15-0, before Moscoso rallied to win the next two games and capture the title.
If both players navigate the draw successfully, another championship showdown could be waiting.
Local Crowd Favorite
Fans will also be watching Chicago native Thomas Carter, who will have the support of the hometown crowd.
With the energy of a home event behind him, Carter could be a dangerous player capable of producing a surprise result.
Watch the Tournament Live
Fans can follow the tournament throughout the weekend as streaming coverage begins today.
Additional matches will be available through IRT Club, where fans can watch extra courts and exclusive content not shown elsewhere.
Fans can also participate in Fantasy Fastbreak, predicting tournament outcomes and following the draw as the weekend unfolds.
A Tournament Known for Great Moments
Between the St. Patrick’s Day atmosphere, the passionate Chicago racquetball community, and a stacked professional field, the Shamrock Shootout continues to be one of the most exciting and unique stops on the International Racquetball Tour.
With storylines developing and rivalries intensifying, this weekend promises plenty of memorable matches.
