Hi there, Pickleballers!

Welcome to the first edition of Around the Post or ATP, your new go-to source for all things Pickleball in Singapore and soon the region. Whether you’re smashing it on court or just dipping your toe for casual fun, we’ve got something for everyone.

We’ll be covering news at the community level (In da Hood) and at the club level (In da Club). We will showcase the warm, colourful people who play the game around SG (Whaddaya Dink?) and do special features on trending personalities (Kind of a Big Dill).

There’ll be opinion pieces (Paddle Queue). And what everyone loves – promos and giveaways (Super DUPR). Not everything we’ve listed here is in our Issue #1 but stay tuned, while we get our feelers going. 

For now read, see if you recognize anybody in our photo spread and win stuff. You can send in story suggestions and your event news to us at [email protected] to be featured. We may even pop by and get some snaps and quotes.

Before all that, subscribe now, it’s free! And share this with your Pickleball buddies. Let’s grow this space together, one rally at a time. 

We’ve been meeting many Pickleballers around SG. And since it’s the New Year we had questions for them.

Like 1) Where do you like playing Pickleball?
And 2) What’s your Pickleball resolution for 2026?

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Social service agency, Montfort Care, is known to engage seniors with its active ageing centres. As part of its Goodlife Studio branding aimed at attracting ‘young seniors’ not keen on typical offerings, it chose Pickleball and recruited volunteers to teach the game to the elderly at Telok Blangah.

What started with 3 seniors has grown to as many as 20 over elders playing the game regularly with more joining in every week. Some of the seniors have taken to the game so quickly and comfortably that they can give younger Singaporeans a run for their money.

There’s an elderly Pickleball player, in his 80s, in the West side of SG who has early set Dementia (sorry, PDPA!). He turns up for Pickleball games on the wrong day and time, and when it’s on the right day, he is often way too early and goes home cursing, only to return after the games are over.

But get him on court in the heat of a Pickleball game and the man is sharp in his returns, rallies and even score keeping, like he is an app with auto update. His friends and family are as astonished as we are so thank you, Pickleball. 

What used to be dazed and confused weekends from active partying has become a healthy lifestyle of DUPR games with friends and strangers-turned-friends for Luqman and his buddies.

“Pickleball is so easy to pick up without being too physically taxing. Playing DUPR games gives us the competitive edge which is quite addictive. Meeting different people of different ages, backgrounds and playing styles is one of the best things about Pickleball.”, says Luqman.

So cheers to healthy living and again, thank you, Pickleball. 

Let’s face it, for all the tennis lessons many parents are paying for in SG, not one of their kids will make it big. I’m sorry for being blunt here. BUT tennis gives these kids a headstart in Pickleball and that is why many junior champions in tennis are switching to Pickleball.

As the sport grows in popularity (70% of Pickleball is played outside the US and Vietnam is producing some banger kids) so does the money. In fact, a leading player just signed the first 8-figure sponsorship.

The way I see it, start your kids in tennis for whatever ‘prestige’ reasons but switch them over to Pickleball early coz it’s now a serious professional career option. Especially with the high-energy fan base in Asia (go watch the PPA madness that descended on Malaysia and Vietnam in Nov/Dec).

It’s what kisau Singaporean parents should bet on for maximum ROI with Pickleball’s fast-growing future that has the Olympics in its sight. Even Novak Djokovic has warned that Pickleball will replace tennis so what are you waiting for?”

– R, tennis AND Pickleball coach

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What drew you to Pickleball initially, and how has your love for the game evolved over the years?

I was first intrigued by pickleball when I saw it on TV – the fast-paced rallies and strategic play immediately caught my eye. What started as curiosity quickly became a passion, thanks to how easy it was to pick up. I loved the instant feeling of competitiveness and the fact that I could get a great workout while having so much fun.

Over the years, my love for the sport has evolved into something even richer. It’s no longer just about the game itself, but the incredibly friendly and compassionate community that surrounds it. Some of my best memories now include traveling overseas with our group for tours and competitions, turning our shared passion into adventures across the globe.

Pickleball started as a hobby, but it’s become a vibrant part of my life, connecting me to competition, fitness, and a wonderful circle of friends.

Can you share your experience in advocating for Pickleball’s recognition and growth as a national game? What challenges did you face?

In Singapore, advocating for pickleball’s growth requires changing long-held perceptions,  from a “seniors-only” casual pastime to a structured, competitive sport that supports lifelong participation and active ageing.

One major challenge is access to facilities. Given our limited and high-cost space, we have to work closely with community clubs, schools, and private venues to integrate pickleball into existing infrastructure.

Establishing clear national development pathways, supported by appropriate financial incentives, is also critical. Ultimately, what drove pickleball’s acceptance was its inclusiveness and inter-generational appeal, which aligns strongly with Singapore’s national sports vision.

How did the pandemic change the perception and popularity of Pickleball in SG? How did it explode as a sport across all ages?

The pandemic fundamentally changed the perception of pickleball in Singapore. During COVID lockdowns, community centres were closed and sports options were limited. When restrictions eased, only two (and later five) players were allowed at a time, and play was mainly outdoors. Pickleball fitted these conditions perfectly.

At the same time, the sport was gaining huge momentum in the United States, with more younger players, the rise of professional competitions, and widespread exposure through YouTube broadcasts. This global visibility inspired many younger Singaporeans to take up the sport.

Today, pickleball is even encouraged in schools—something that was not welcomed when we first introduced it to schools and social clubs nearly 30 years ago. The pandemic, unexpectedly, became a catalyst for its explosive, cross-generational growth.

What would you say are the plus points of playing Pickleball if you’re say, in your 20s, 30s, 40s, 50s+?

Pickleball offers something valuable at every stage of life. In your 20s, it builds athletic foundations, coordination, and competitive skills. In your 30s and 40s, it provides an efficient workout, stress relief, and sharpens strategic thinking while being kinder on the joints.

In your 50s and beyond, it helps maintain mobility, balance, and mental agility, while fostering strong social connections. What makes pickleball special is that it’s truly a lifelong sport — one you can enjoy, compete in, and grow with at any age.

Can you share 3 memorable moments in your storied Pickleball career? 

2026 will mark my 30th year of playing pickleball, a journey filled with countless memorable moments for which I feel deeply blessed.

First and foremost, I was honoured to be conferred the NUSS Sportswoman of the Year Award in 2024, in recognition of my involvement and achievements in pickleball.

Another unforgettable milestone was winning my first championship in 1996, after playing the sport for less than three months. In the seven years that followed, my partner and I were fortunate to finish first in all SPA, Pesta Sukan, and Singapore-Pool tournaments, with the exception of just one event—made possible by the strength of an outstanding partnership.

Last but certainly not least was our experience competing at the Dalian WPC. We were trailing 9–0, yet through sheer resilience and determination, we mounted a remarkable comeback and clinched the championship 11–10. The lesson I carry with me is simple yet powerful: never give up, even when you seem far behind.

Where do you see Pickleball heading in SG, regionally and globally? What would you consider to be key steps SG has to undertake asap?

Pickleball in Singapore has grown rapidly, especially post-pandemic, with more people of all ages picking up the sport. Regionally, Southeast Asia is seeing similar growth, and globally, pickleball is moving from a social pastime to a serious competitive sport, with professional leagues and international tournaments expanding.

For Singapore to stay ahead, we need more dedicated and noise-managed courts, structured leagues and coaching pathways, integration into schools and community programs, and leveraging major tournaments to boost sports tourism. With these steps, Singapore can become a regional hub for pickleball while keeping it accessible and sustainable for all.

In your opinion, what role do senior citizens play in growing and influencing sports like Pickleball or an active lifestyle in society? 

Senior citizens play a crucial role in growing sports like pickleball. They show that age is not a barrier to staying active, inspiring younger generations to adopt a healthy lifestyle. Seniors often form the backbone of community play, creating vibrant social networks that keep the sport thriving at grassroots levels.

Their participation also drives demand for better facilities and programs, influencing how communities plan sports spaces. Beyond just playing, many seniors volunteer as mentors, coaches, or ambassadors, shaping the culture of inclusivity, wellness, and longevity in sports. Simply put, seniors don’t just play – they lead by example and leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

What legacy do you hope to leave for future generations of Pickleball players – what message do you have for them?

My hope for future generations of pickleball players is to embrace the sport not just as a game, but as a way of life. Age is just a number. Never let it limit your passion or drive. Believe in yourself, challenge your limits, and enjoy every moment on the court.

Win friends, not just medals, and always respect players who are better than you; there’s always something to learn. Be humble in victory, and gracious in defeat, because character matters more than scores. And remember, when the going gets tough, the tough get going. Keep pushing, keep learning, and let your love for the game inspire others long after you leave the court.

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The SG Cricket Club Pickleball Section hosted a charity event for the Muhammadiyah Welfare Home at the SCC on Thurs, 11 Dec.

The Home’s mission is to guide, nurture and empower at-risk youths towards becoming responsible and contributing members of their family, community and society.

The SCC Pickleball Section hosted 16 children and members of the Muhammadiyah Welfare Home with Pickleball games, refreshments and festivities. 

Singapore Recreation Club (SRC) has elected Sofi Sui as Convenor of their Pickleball Section. An active player and member in the Pickleball scene, Sofi was previously the Vice-Convenor of SRC.

My goal, together with our dedicated subcommittee members, is to foster an inclusive environment that supports and motivates social players of all ages, while building a competitive squad and nurturing younger talents to represent SRC and Singapore with pride.”

– Sofi, Pickleball Convenor, SRC 

9 clubs, 14 teams, 7 weeks of demanding league games saw the final four of NUSS 1, SICC Bukit, Tanglin Club and Chinese Swimming Club 1 battle it out to be the inaugural champions of Lion City League backed by BigFundr.

The eventual winners were NUSS 1, defeating SICC Bukit, who were missing SG’s top player, Jih Shian, by a score of 3-1. The win earning them a well-deserved $3,000 cash prize. What was remarkable is that NUSS 1 went the entire league and cup competition undefeated!

The Lion City League showcased some of Singapore's top Pickleball talent across Men’s, Women’s, and Mixed Doubles formats and while the competition was fierce, so was the camaraderie. Congratulations to all the teams as we eagerly anticipate the stories the next edition would bring.

On Friday, 19 Dec, SG Swimming Club held a Christmas party for its Section members with novelty Pickleball games, lucky draw prizes, food and festive cheer. Noel would have been proud of their novel touch. 

The Chinese Swimming Club’s Pickleball Section celebrated their Year-End Smash on Tues, 30 Dec in…well, a smashing way with good games, good food, good fun and most importantly, great company.

The first Tanglin Club Pickleball Tournament was a landmark event that balanced high-stakes competition with the friendly, supportive spirit the club is known for. The real highlight was the incredible sportsmanship off court as participants worked around the challenge of having only one court available and many members travelling during the busy year-end season. Thankfully, everything went off without a hitch! Congrats to all the winners. We are looking forward to the next edition already!

Men’s Doubles
Champions:
Raymond Tong & Nicholas Pua 
Runners-up:
Vincent Lam & Tan Joo Thye

Women’s Doubles
Champions:
Mara McAdams & Kat Crane
Runners-up:
Rita Tan & Emma Pickering

Mixed Doubles
Champions:
Rita Tan & Nicholas Pua
Runners-up:
Mara McAdams & David Hand

Senior Mixed Doubles Winners
Champions:
Gilles Martin & Florence Hollermann
Runners-up:
Zoher Motiwalla & Sim Suh-Ting

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