Spreading the pickleball movement

The DN Club complex in Phu Loi ward offers a spacious playground.

Phu Loi Ward, Can Tho City currently has 12 pickleball complexes with approximately 56 courts in operation. Not only has the number of courts increased, but they have also received substantial investment in quality. From non-slip surfaces and modern lighting systems to accompanying services such as equipment rental and technical instruction, everything is geared towards providing the best possible experience for players.

Pickleball is a popular choice due to its versatility, ease of play, and suitability for various fitness levels. Duong Uy Vu, a player in Phu Loi ward, shared: “I often play pickleball after work. It helps me relax and feel healthier.”

"Going out to play, meeting friends, socializing makes me feel much more relaxed and happy. Especially on weekends or holidays, if I don't have plans to go out, going to the pickleball court is a healthy way for me to relax," shared Ms. Nguyen Ngoc Huong.

The DN Club complex in Phu Loi ward has recently attracted a large number of people to play pickleball thanks to its professional organization. Ms. Truong Thi Kim Cuc, the owner of the complex, said: “From the beginning, we determined not only to create a sports field but also to build a healthy and safe training space for the community. Therefore, everything from the quality of the playing surface and safe distances to controlling the number of players and maintaining environmental hygiene is given careful attention. We also listen to player feedback to improve further.”

Pickleball is not limited to urban areas; it is taking strong root in rural regions.

In Tran De commune, the Ngan Phu sports complex is well-known for its two areas and seven courts, divided into sections for beginners and experienced players. "We want to create a true community space where people come not only to play but also to socialize and connect. The courts are cleaned regularly, and there are clear rules to ensure safety. In the future, we will organize more friendly tournaments to further develop the sport," shared Mr. Nguyen Hoai Linh, owner of the Ngan Phu sports complex.

At the ATL pickleball complex in Vinh Chau ward, with its three spacious, competition-standard courts, a large number of players are attracted every day.

Mr. Tran Van Thang, a regular pickleball player here, shared: "I've never played any sport before, but I found pickleball easy to play, so I tried it and found it suitable for my health, so I participate regularly. Here, those who want to play to improve their health can ask someone who knows how to play to teach them, while those who want to play more professionally can hire an instructor."

Pickleball is gradually expanding into rural areas, with court rental costs typically ranging from 50,000 to 100,000 VND per hour. Although the prices are more affordable than in urban areas, the majority of players here are still male. In reality, urban players have access to coaches, participate in organized tournaments, and even have access to professional referees and organizations. In rural areas, the activity is primarily for social interaction and entertainment, therefore, it needs encouragement and guidance to attract a wider range of participants. However, this difference creates the overall picture: urban areas lead the trend, encourage investment, and improve quality, while rural areas provide the foundation for pickleball to spread widely and become a truly mass movement.

From urban to rural areas, pickleball is gradually asserting its role in modern life, spreading a positive and healthy lifestyle. Amidst the bursts of laughter and nimble footwork on the court, one can clearly feel a new rhythm of life – healthier, happier, and more connected.

THANH TAM - SONG LE

Source: https://baocantho.com.vn/lan-toa-phong-trao-pickleball-a203601.html