Pasig Serves Up Pickleball Paradise: Ayala Malls The 30th Launches Academy with Open Play and Expert Coaching
What's the Score?
Ayala Malls The 30th in Pasig City, Philippines, has recently unveiled the 30th Pickleball Academy, aiming to cultivate the burgeoning pickleball community by offering open play sessions, court rentals, and expert coaching. This initiative invites players of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned experts, to engage in the rapidly growing sport within a convenient mall setting.
Hit it deeper!
Located on the second floor of Ayala Malls The 30th's Activity Centre, the 30th Pickleball Academy provides various options for pickleball enthusiasts. For those looking to simply enjoy a game with friends or family, court rentals are available on weekends and holidays from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and on weekdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.. The court rental fee is ₱250 per hour. This provides a structured and private setting for dedicated matches.
Alternatively, the academy also hosts open play sessions, which offer a more social and flexible environment for players to mix and match with others. Open play runs from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on weekdays and from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Participation in open play costs ₱150. This format encourages community building and allows individuals to play without the need to organise a full group beforehand.
For those looking to elevate their game, the 30th Pickleball Academy offers personalised coaching from Vittorio Pozon, also known as Coach Thor. Coach Thor is a respected figure in the local pickleball scene, recognised as among the country’s first-ever pickleball players. His expertise is underscored by his certification from the International Federation of Pickleball Academy (IFP). Additionally, Coach Thor has been trained under the “Elevate to Victory” program by the Philippine Pickleball Academy. This ensures that players receive instruction based on recognised and effective methodologies.
Coach Thor provides tailored guidance to players across all skill levels. His coaching rates start at ₱900 for 1–2 players, which is in addition to the ₱300 per hour court rental fee. This pricing structure allows individuals or small groups to benefit from expert instruction to improve their techniques and strategies.
Interested individuals seeking more information about open play schedules, court rentals, or personalised coaching can scan a provided code for inquiries. The launch of the 30th Pickleball Academy signifies a commitment to fostering the growth of pickleball within the Pasig community, providing accessible avenues for both recreational and skill-based engagement with the sport.
The World Pickleball Verdict
The establishment of the 30th Pickleball Academy at Ayala Malls The 30th is a significant step in promoting pickleball in the Philippines. By situating the academy within a popular mall, it offers unparalleled convenience and accessibility to a wide demographic, including young professionals, students, and families. The availability of both open play and court rentals caters to different preferences and playing styles, fostering a vibrant and inclusive community.
The presence of a certified and experienced coach like Vittorio Pozon adds substantial value to the academy. Providing access to professional instruction from one of the country's pickleball pioneers will undoubtedly help raise the overall skill level of local players and attract those serious about improving their game. The tiered pricing for coaching makes it accessible to individuals and small groups.
This initiative reflects a growing trend of integrating sports facilities into lifestyle and retail spaces, recognising the increasing popularity of pickleball as a recreational and competitive activity. The Ayala Malls The 30th's investment in this academy demonstrates a proactive approach to catering to the evolving interests of its patrons and contributing to the growth of a dynamic sport. It serves as a model for other urban centres looking to provide accessible and high-quality pickleball facilities.