Assam Pickleball Association unveils expansion plans, celebrates national achievements

The Assam Pickleball Association (APA) has announced major milestones in its journey to promote pickleball across Northeast India. At a press meet in Guwahati, APA shared its achievements and outlined an ambitious roadmap to expand the sport in the region.

 

The association, dedicated to fostering talent and increasing awareness about pickleball, also felicitated Assam’s medalists from the 4th Indian Pickleball Association (IPA) National Pickleball Championships, recently held at Bennett University, Greater Noida. Assam secured two medals—Babita Mohan Langthasa won silver in the 50+ Women's Singles category, while Langthasa and Nazneen Rahman clinched bronze in the 50+ Women's Doubles event.

 

Speaking at the event, APA Secretary Nazneen Rahman highlighted the athletes' success as a testament to their rigorous training and the association’s developmental efforts. “The Assam contingent delivered an outstanding performance, solidifying the state’s presence on the national pickleball map,” she said.

 

Building on this success, APA has laid out a five-point strategy to expand the sport:

•    Regional Training Centers: Establishing state-of-the-art pickleball facilities in key northeastern states for professional coaching and infrastructure support.
•    Inter-State Tournaments: Organizing competitive platforms for players to gain exposure and recognition at the national level.
•    Youth Development Programs: Introducing pickleball in schools and colleges to nurture young talent.
•    Community Engagement: Conducting awareness campaigns, workshops, and exhibitions to popularize the sport.
•    Collaboration with Authorities: Partnering with government bodies and sports federations to secure funding, resources, and policy support.

 

The Assam Pickleball Association, registered under the Government of Assam and affiliated with the Indian Pickleball Association, has been instrumental in introducing the sport to the region. Through grassroots initiatives, training camps, and collaborations with educational institutions, APA has steadily grown a vibrant community of athletes, coaches, and enthusiasts.

 

The association also released the names of Assam’s national team members across various categories, acknowledging their contributions to the sport. Key players include Abyan Zaffar, Jishnu Baruah, Himanish Sarma (Men’s Open), Mitali Baruah and Sanchita Sarma (Women’s 35+), and Nazneen Rahman and Babita Langthasa (Women’s 50+), among others.