News & Stories
Mar 5, 2025
Pickleball is sweeping across Asia with unprecedented momentum, creating exciting opportunities for athletes looking to make their mark in this dynamic sport. The Asia Pickleball Trailblazers Program emerges as a groundbreaking initiative designed to identify, develop, and launch top Asian pickleball talent onto the global stage.
An Extraordinary Pathway to Professional Pickleball
The program offers a transformative three-month experience in the United States, providing selected athletes with a comprehensive development journey. Participants will immerse themselves in the heart of pickleball's competitive landscape, receiving intensive training, advanced skill development, and professional guidance.
(Photo Source: https://www.kollectivehustle.com/blog/8-top-15-ranked-filipino-pickleball-athletes)
Program Highlights
Elite Training Environment
Athletes will train at top-tier performance centers, leveraging advanced coaching techniques and modern sports science to elevate their game. The program focuses on holistic athlete development, combining technical skill refinement with strategic performance enhancement.
Professional Development Ecosystem
Participants will receive mentorship from experienced coaches and sports professionals, focusing on both athletic performance and personal branding. This comprehensive approach prepares athletes for the multifaceted world of professional sports.
Competitive Exposure
The program provides unprecedented access to professional pickleball events, including opportunities to participate in Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) Tour and Major League Pickleball (MLP) competitions. These experiences offer crucial networking and competitive exposure.
Professional Contract Opportunity
Successful program graduates will be considered for a two-year UPA Asia Pro Contract, opening doors to compete in pickleball tournaments across the USA, Asia, and Australia. Outstanding performers may even catch the eye of PPA Tour scouts.
Application Details
The program is designed for ambitious Asian athletes with the following eligibility criteria:
Born between 1995 and 2006
Holding an Asian passport
Available for the program from late March to June 2025
Applications close on February 22, 2025. Aspiring pickleball professionals are encouraged to apply quickly, as spots are limited.
The Bigger Picture: Pickleball's Asian Expansion
This initiative reflects the growing significance of pickleball in Asia. With the recent expansion of PPA Asia and MLP Asia, the region is rapidly becoming a crucial hub for professional pickleball. The Trailblazers Program represents a strategic investment in developing world-class talent and elevating the sport's profile across the continent.
Your Moment to Shine
The Asia Pickleball Trailblazers Program isn't just a training opportunity—it's a launching pad for professional athletes. It symbolizes the exciting potential of pickleball in Asia, offering a structured pathway for talented players to transform their passion into a professional career.
Ready to take your pickleball journey to the next level? Visit the official UPA Asia Trailblazers Program website to learn more and submit your application. Your pickleball adventure starts here!