From First Paddle to Tournament Day
The story began on February 14, when the Office of General Santos City Representative Shirlyn Bañas-Nograles launched a pickleball clinic for senior citizens with the National Commission of Senior Citizens Region XII and Barangay Dadiangas South. Thirty-five seniors joined the initial training, learning the basics through regular coaching. By July 31, the activity had developed into the city’s first pickleball tournament specifically for senior citizens. Twenty-eight players were divided into four teams and competed at D’Lotte Pickleball Court in Riverside, Barangay San Isidro. The progression is notable because participants moved from learning an unfamiliar sport to confidently taking part in organized matches within only several months.
A Sport Becomes a Social Circle
The value of the initiative extends beyond the mechanics of serving, returning, and keeping score. According to NCSC Region XII, the clinic encouraged healthier lifestyles, social interaction, and lifelong learning. Participants also developed friendships during their regular sessions, with the training supported by volunteer coaches from the GenSan United Pickleball Community. The group donated paddles and pickleballs used during the clinic, helping participants practice without needing to provide all the equipment themselves. That combination of coaching and community support gave the activity a distinctly social character. For the seniors involved, the court became a place where learning a new sport could happen alongside conversations, encouragement, and familiar faces.
Age Is Not a Reason to Stop Trying
One of the more interesting details is that the program welcomed people who were beginners. NCSC Region XII described participants who had never held a pickleball paddle before the February clinic and later returned to compete in the tournament. The initiative therefore offers a simple reminder that recreational activities do not have to begin with previous athletic experience. The tournament was organized by the Golden Paddlers Pickleball Club, with matches scheduled every Friday leading toward the championship games on August 14. The program was also supported by Barangay Dadiangas South and volunteer coaches. Its documented focus was active ageing, friendship, and continued participation rather than simply winning matches.
