Da Nang Brings Pickleball to Schools: A New Era of Fun and Fitness

The city’s Department of Education and Training is set to introduce the exciting sport of pickleball into local schools starting in 2025. This decision follows new guidance from the Ministry of Education and Training. Deputy Director Nguyen Minh Thanh shared that the plan is not just for students but also for public officials, employees at public institutions, and trainees.

To kick things off, the department will run a survey to see how many people are interested. "The Da Nang Pickleball Federation will provide all necessary equipment, such as paddles and balls, and coordinate professional training sessions based on registration results," Thanh explained.

Excitement is growing quickly. "The movement to practice and compete in pickleball, especially here in Da Nang, is gaining remarkable momentum," Thanh said.

Pickleball recently received official recognition from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, making it an emerging sport in Vietnam.

The Sea Pickle Ball Federation is also eager to help grow the sport in schools. They have proposed working closely with Da Nang's education department. "Our decision to introduce pickleball within educational institutions aims to broaden the spectrum of accessible and engaging sports for public officials, employees, students, and trainees, while promoting physical activity," Thanh said.

Schools will be asked to modify existing facilities to fit pickleball courts. "The priority for the Ministry of Education is to ensure that the introduction of pickleball does not disrupt the other sports programs in schools, while adhering to educational regulations for physical education," Thanh emphasized.

In August 2025, the department plans to host pickleball tournaments for public officials, workers, and education employees. These events will help evaluate how the sport is growing and shape future plans.

Originally from the United States, pickleball is booming in Vietnam. The sport is a mix of tennis, table tennis, and badminton. It’s played on a court about the size of a badminton court, using paddles that are bigger than table tennis paddles but lighter than tennis rackets. It can be played indoors or outdoors, in singles or doubles.

By bringing pickleball into schools, Da Nang is paving the way for a healthier, more active community—and making sports even more fun and accessible for everyone.