Tiaong’s inaugural pickleball tournament draws 20 doubles teams

By Nimfa L. Estrellado-Laurino Doubles teams compete on adjacent courts during Tiaong’s inaugural pickleball tournament on October 25, 2...

By Nimfa L. Estrellado-Laurino

Doubles teams compete on adjacent courts during Tiaong’s inaugural pickleball tournament on October 25, 2026. (Tiaong PIO)

TIAONG, Quezon - Twenty doubles teams competed in Tiaong’s inaugural pickleball tournament on October 25, 2026, marking the municipality’s first organized competition in the sport. Women’s doubles attracted the largest field with eight pairs, while the men’s and mixed doubles divisions each featured six teams competing for their respective titles.

The men’s and mixed doubles divisions followed a round-robin format, with victories determining the standings and point differentials resolving ties between teams. Women’s doubles adopted a double-elimination system, allowing pairs to remain in contention after their first defeat and continue competing for the division championship.

Former Tiaong councilor Monica Rexanne B. Baldeo outlined the competition rules, including side-out scoring and matches played to 11 points without requiring a two-point winning margin. Each pair was also required to designate a representative to verify and sign official score sheets after every match, ensuring accurate results and standings.

In his remarks, Tiaong Mayor Vincent Arjay “RJ” Mea emphasized the importance of sports in promoting physical fitness, discipline and stronger community ties. He described the inaugural competition as an opportunity to encourage healthier lifestyles and bring residents together through recreational activities.

“Sa ating unang pickleball tournament, nais nating hikayatin ang mas maraming mamamayan na maging aktibo at makiisa sa mga gawaing pampalakasan. Higit sa kompetisyon, pagkakataon ito upang mapalakas ang samahan, malinang ang disiplina at maisulong ang mas malusog na pamumuhay sa ating bayan,” Mea said.

Sportsmanship was emphasized during the opening program as participating athletes took an oath pledging honesty, discipline and respect for opponents, referees and tournament regulations. The competitors also committed to upholding fair play, demonstrating humility in victory and accepting defeat with respect for their fellow players.

Registration was free of charge, allowing competitors to enter the tournament without paying participation fees, while drinking water and ice were provided throughout the event. Local Youth Development Officer John Mathew M. Daniel was recognized for helping facilitate the competition and assisting with arrangements for participating athletes.

Looking beyond the inaugural event, Mea identified the development of competitive athletes as a priority for the municipality’s sports initiatives. He emphasized the need to build on local competitions by creating opportunities for players to advance their skills and compete at higher levels.

“Buong suporta ang pamahalaang bayan sa pagpapaunlad ng sports, kabilang ang pickleball, dahil mahalagang mabigyan ang ating mga kababayan ng pagkakataong makapaglaro at malinang ang kanilang talento. Patuloy nating itataguyod ang mga programang tutulong sa ating mga atleta na mapahusay ang kanilang laro at makatawan ang Tiaong sa mas mataas na antas ng kompetisyon,” Mea added.