The Mandaue City Council has approved a resolution urging the Department of Education (DepEd) to include pickleball in its sports programs and asking the Mandaue City Sports Commission to integrate the sport into the city’s sports development initiatives.
Councilor Carlo Fortuna, who led the push for the promotion of pickleball in Mandaue City, said the sport has gained popularity among various age groups, including children and senior citizens.
“Nakita nato nga all walks of life, bisa’g unsa’ng edara, ma senior (citizen) or mga bata, daghan na kaayong nagduwa aning pickle ball,” Fortuna said.
However, Fortuna noted that most pickleball courts are currently operated by private establishments, limiting access for residents who want to try the sport.
To make pickleball more accessible, Fortuna said he requested DepEd to consider integrating the sport into its athletic programs.
“Usa ni sa mga angay i-develop nga sports program sa DepEd,” he said.
He added that the initiative could start in Mandaue City even if it is not immediately adopted across the region.
Aside from schools, Fortuna also urged the Mandaue City Sports Commission to include pickleball in the city’s sports activities and development programs.
The resolution also seeks the cooperation of the city’s 27 barangays in identifying available spaces, including covered courts and barangay gyms, that can be converted into pickleball playing areas.
“Naa naman tay tennis court pero wala pa for pickle ball,” Fortuna said.
He suggested that areas within the Mandaue City Sports Complex and the City Hall grounds could be considered as possible locations for pickleball courts.
“Para matagaan ang tanang tao og higayon makaduwa og ingon ana nga sports,” he said.
Fortuna said the initiative aims to provide residents with affordable access to the sport, noting that private pickleball facilities may charge around P500 per session.
“Ang talent walay pili madato or mapobre, maong atoa, atagan nato’g higayon ang mga katawhan,” he said.
He also said the city’s support for pickleball could encourage barangays to organize tournaments using available public sports facilities.
Fortuna added that he is seeking DepEd’s support to help provide opportunities and possible funding assistance for students interested in playing the sport.
“At least, affordable kaayo siya,” Fortuna said.
Photo courtesy of US Sports Camps
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