Punjab Pickleball Association making efforts for grassroots expansion in Punjab schools
New Delhi, November 21
The All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), in association with the Punjab Pickleball Association (PPA), an affiliated state unit of AIPA, is accelerating its mission to integrate pickleball into the younger generation by taking the sport directly into Punjab's school ecosystem.
Under the leadership of Karan Singh Dhillon, President of the Punjab Pickleball Association, this initiative has witnessed remarkable statewide participation, as per a release from AIPA.
Over the last few months, pickleball demonstration sessions have been conducted in more than 50 schools across Punjab, successfully introducing thousands of students to the sport. The All India Pickleball Association and the Punjab Pickleball Association have also completed full integration across 5 schools, ensuring that each institution now has its own dedicated pickleball court.
The associations have committed that with every new integration, they will support the school in developing a complete pickleball court infrastructure, making long-term sporting access a priority.
With the response growing rapidly, the All India Pickleball Association and Punjab Pickleball Association are now preparing to expand the demo campaign to over 200 schools in the coming year. In addition to school outreach, the associations have also nurtured and sponsored 20 emerging pickleball players from across Punjab, and remain committed to supporting many more young talents, the release said.
Viramjeet Singh, state secretary, Punjab Pickleball Association (PPA) said: "Our mission is simple to take pickleball to every school in Punjab. The excitement among students has been inspiring, and it strengthens our resolve to continue this movement. With the guidance and support of the All India Pickleball Association, we are not just introducing a sport, we are building sustainable platforms for children to grow, train, and compete."
Arvind Prabhoo, President, All India Pickleball Association (AIPA), said Punjab is setting a benchmark in grassroots pickleball development. "The energy, commitment, and vision shown here reflect the future of Indian pickleball. The All India Pickleball Association (AIPA) is proud to support its affiliated state unit, the Punjab Pickleball Association (PPA), in creating opportunities, providing infrastructure, and nurturing young players who will one day represent India on global platforms."
— ANI
Reader Comments
Great initiative! But I hope they're not just focusing on urban schools. Rural areas in Punjab need this exposure too. The infrastructure gap between city and village schools is already huge.
Punjab leading the way again! This sport is perfect for Indian conditions - doesn't require massive space or expensive equipment. Hope other states follow Punjab's example. 🇮🇳
As an expat living in Chandigarh, I've seen pickleball grow in popularity back home. It's fantastic that Indian students are getting exposure to this fun, inclusive sport. The infrastructure commitment is impressive!
Good to see sports diversification in Indian schools. However, I hope they maintain the courts properly. Many school sports facilities in India get neglected after the initial excitement fades.
Bahut vadiya! My nephew in Amritsar has started playing and he's absolutely loving it. More sports mean more opportunities for our youth. Hope they include proper coaching and tournaments too! 🙌
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