The University of Education Practice High School in Ho Chi Minh City has officially opened its M Sports Court, offering students and teachers a high-quality facility to practice pickleball, the sport that has been gaining massive popularity worldwide.

Designed to meet international standards set by the International Basketball Federation and the International Tennis Federation, the court provides excellent durability, flatness, and traction, ensuring a top-tier playing experience.

For students, the introduction of pickleball is an exciting addition to their physical education program.

Bao Tran, a student at the school, shared her enthusiasm: “Most of my classmates are excited! Many of us have already tried pickleball, so now that the school is offering lessons, we can’t wait to sign up.”

According to principal Nguyen Thi Tu, the M Sports Court is designed for multiple sports, including basketball, volleyball, badminton, futsal, and pickleball. However, pickleball will be the first sport officially introduced to students on this new court.

"Pickleball is taking the world by storm, and our students should have the chance to learn and play right here at school. We hope both students and teachers will make the most of this facility for training and development," said Tu.

The southern metropolis is witnessing a growing trend of high schools investing in sports infrastructure for pickleball.

Other schools, such as Mac Dinh Chi High School in District 6, Hung Vuong High School in District 5, and the High School for Gifted Students under the Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City, have also introduced courts for students and staff.

Originating in the U.S., pickleball is a hybrid sport combining elements of tennis, table tennis, and badminton and has gained immense popularity in Vietnam over the past year.

It is played on a court similar in size to a badminton court, using a small perforated plastic ball and paddles that are larger than table tennis rackets but smaller than tennis racquets.

Last Saturday, the M Sports Court hosted its first major event -- a sports competition for teachers and staff from 11 high schools in the city. 

The event featured pickleball, badminton, sack races, and group jump rope competitions, drawing praise for the new facility.

Teachers who participated expressed their hope that more high schools will introduce dedicated pickleball courts, allowing students and staff to stay active and develop a lasting passion for sports.

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