In a landmark move that could redefine the sporting landscape of Northeast India, the Assam Pickleball Association (APA) has unveiled ambitious plans to establish the region’s first-ever Centre of Excellence in Pickleball. The announcement follows Assam’s impressive debut at the 4th IPA Nationals held at Bennett University, Noida, where the state’s athletes clinched silver and bronze medals, signaling a new era for the sport in the region.
From Grassroots to Glory: Assam’s Pickleball Journey
Established in September 2023, the APA has rapidly emerged as one of the most dynamic sports bodies in the Northeast. Under the leadership of Secretary Nazneen Rahman, the association has conducted over 50 awareness camps, clinics, and workshops across schools, clubs, and community centers in Guwahati and surrounding districts. These efforts have led to the construction of dedicated pickleball courts and the formation of local leagues, laying the foundation for competitive play.
Rahman stated, “Pickleball was virtually unknown in Assam two years ago. Today, we have medalists, certified coaches, and a growing community of players. The Centre of Excellence will be the next big leap.”
Timeline of Key Milestones
| Date | Milestone |
|---|---|
| Sep 2023 | Assam Pickleball Association founded |
| Jan 2025 | Assam debuts at IPA Nationals |
| Feb 2025 | APA announces Centre of Excellence plan |
| Nov 2025 | Land identified for facility in Guwahati |
| Mar 2026 | Construction expected to begin |
Vision for the Northeast Centre of Excellence
The proposed Centre of Excellence will serve as a hub for training, coaching, research, and tournament hosting. It will feature:
- Eight international-standard pickleball courts
- Indoor training arena with video analytics
- Accommodation for 100 athletes
- Sports science and physiotherapy units
- Coach certification and referee training programs
- Youth development and school outreach modules
The facility aims to cater not only to Assam but also to neighboring states like Meghalaya, Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh, positioning the Northeast as a national powerhouse in pickleball.
Performance at IPA Nationals 2025
| Category | Athlete(s) | Medal |
|---|---|---|
| Women’s Singles 50+ | Babita Langthasa | Silver |
| Women’s Doubles 50+ | Babita Langthasa & Nazneen Rahman | Bronze |
| Mixed Doubles | Quarterfinal finish | — |
Assam’s 16-member contingent showcased grit and skill, earning praise from IPA officials and setting the stage for future participation in international events.
Strategic Goals of APA
- Talent identification in rural and tribal areas
- Integration of pickleball into school sports curriculum
- Partnerships with global pickleball federations
- Hosting Northeast Pickleball League by 2027
- Developing export-ready coaching modules
Comparative Analysis: Regional Sports Infrastructure
| State | Centre of Excellence | Focus Sport | Operational Since |
|---|---|---|---|
| Assam (planned) | Pickleball | Pickleball | 2026 (expected) |
| Manipur | Football | Football | 2018 |
| Mizoram | Archery | Archery | 2020 |
| Meghalaya | Athletics | Track & Field | 2022 |
Assam’s initiative marks the first dedicated pickleball facility in the region, aligning with India’s broader push for sports diversification.
Public and Institutional Support
The Assam Sports Ministry has expressed support for the project, with initial funding expected from state grants and private sponsors. Educational institutions like Cotton University and Assam Engineering College have shown interest in integrating pickleball into their sports programs.
Local communities have embraced the sport, with over 1,200 registered players and 30 certified coaches now active across the state.
Challenges and Road Ahead
While the vision is bold, APA faces hurdles including:
- Land acquisition delays
- Limited access to international-grade equipment
- Need for sustained funding and sponsorship
- Training of technical officials and referees
However, with growing media attention and grassroots momentum, the association remains confident in overcoming these challenges.
Conclusion
Assam’s plan to build a Northeast Centre of Excellence in Pickleball is more than a sports infrastructure project—it’s a statement of intent. By nurturing talent, fostering inclusivity, and embracing innovation, the state is poised to become a national leader in one of the world’s fastest-growing sports. As the countdown to IPL-style pickleball leagues and international tournaments begins, Assam’s bold vision could inspire a sporting revolution across the Northeast.
Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and statements from sports officials. The publisher does not endorse any claims or projections and advises readers to follow official announcements for verified updates.
