On August 4, 2024, Metro Manila hosted the first-ever Standout Pickleball Championship Invitational, introducing the Major League Pickleball (MLP) format to the Philippines. Held at the Veterans Memorial Tennis and Pickleball Courts, this groundbreaking event gathered players of all skill levels—from beginners to elite competitors—for an intense team-based showdown that captivated the local pickleball community.
Philippine Pickleball Makes History
This tournament was a major milestone for pickleball in the Philippines. By adopting the MLP format, the event offered a fresh approach to the sport, blending high-level play with a strategic, team-oriented structure. The competition brought out the best in players and set a new standard for pickleball tournaments in the country.
Team Play Takes Center Stage
Fans were treated to high-stakes action as teams from diverse backgrounds clashed on the courts. The MLP format emphasized not just individual talent, but the importance of teamwork and strategy. Each game saw thrilling rallies and hard-fought points, showcasing the collaborative aspect of this innovative format.
Top Performances Across Divisions
The tournament delivered standout moments from teams in every category:
- Open Category: Gold – Zentro Dinking Donuts, Silver – Alset, Bronze – ACP
- 3.5-4.0 Category: Gold – VMMC Team A, Silver – Alabang Country Club Pickleball, Bronze – VMMC Team B
- 3.0-3.5 Category: Gold – VMMC Team A, Silver – VMMC Team B, Bronze – Riviera Silang Pickleball Club
Teams impressed with their chemistry, skill, and competitive spirit, leaving a lasting impression on both the audience and the tournament’s organizers.
A Collaborative Success
The success of the Standout Pickleball Championship was made possible by Welcome Pickleball Plus, led by Eden Isip as Tournament Organizer, Richelle A. Silvallana-Cuadro as Head of Sponsorship, and Standout Pickleball Philippines Ambassador Roberto Gregorio Navarrete Jr. Key sponsors like Toby’s Sports, ToledoMed, K-Swiss, Boracay Newcoast, and others played a vital role in supporting the event.
LU SCIAKY, CEO of Standout and Captain of Major League Pickleball Australia’s Brisbane Breakers, traveled from Australia to be part of this landmark event, further raising its profile and drawing attention from across the pickleball world.
The Road Ahead for Pickleball
The Standout Pickleball Championship Invitational has set a new benchmark for competitive pickleball in the Philippines, with its success paving the way for future tournaments. The unique MLP format was well-received, offering an exciting new avenue for both players and fans alike.
Want to be part of the next pickleball event? Follow Standout Pickleball Philippines for updates on upcoming tournaments, community events, and training opportunities. Join the action and see why pickleball is becoming the sport to watch!
ADVT.
This article is brought to you by Standout Pickleball.