TO NURTURE the new racket sport that's rocketing in popularity, the Philippine Olympic Committee (POC) has recognized Padel Pilipinas as the country's official federation.
“We are happy to receive the trust and support of the POC, the governing body of all National Sports Associations (NSAs) in the Philippines,” said Padel Pilipinas secretary-general Duane Santos, who, together with his brother Derrick, are also the reigning Philippine Padel champions.
Santos said the group is committed to prioritizing a grassroots padel program to bring the sport closer to more Filipinos.
READ: Meet the hot new sport called padel
Senator Pia S. Cayetano, the woman behind Padel Pilipinas, also welcomed the recognition from the POC.
“I’ve always been a believer that sports is the great equalizer. Through sports, deserving kids can get a good education through scholarships. They get to meet, train with, and compete against equally determined and talented individuals outside of their schools and hometowns," she said.
"Sometimes they’ll win, sometimes they’ll lose. But as long as they get up, they’ll keep getting better. This builds character. It's part of nation-building."
In the recognition letter sent to the International Padel Federation, POC president Bambol Tolentino praised the organization.
“Padel Pilipinas has been actively conducting clinics and trainings all over the country. Likewise, the construction of public courts to ensure accessibility to all are underway. I am confident that through the consistent efforts and unwavering dedication of Padel Pilipinas, padel will continue to grow in our country, one locality at a time.”
Grassroots program
Coach Bryan Casao, who earned his professional certification from PadelMBA in Spain and who currently leads the training of padel beginners in the country, revealed that they are partnering with local governments to introduce the sport at a more local level.
“We have been to places like Tarlac, Pampanga, Laguna and Batangas. Just this month, we were in Bataan and Aurora,” Casao said.
Secretary-General Santos added that they would field Filipino athletes to international competitions, and continue to forge key partnerships abroad to elevate their game. "We truly believe that anyone can play padel - from a beginner with zero experience to a pro athlete who wants to compete internationally."
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