KUCHING: Sarawakian pickleball talent took centre stage as MUSCS Podium Ace (MPA), featuring nine Sarawakians in its 10-player squad, captured the Bandar Kuching Pickleball Championship Team Event title at Star Pickleball here from May 30 to 31.
The team, which also included one player from Kuala Lumpur, delivered a strong all-round performance throughout the two-day competition to emerge champions ahead of Hornbill Pickleball Club, while Showa finished third.
MPA captain Emmanuel David said the triumph was especially meaningful given the team’s strong local composition and the level of competition in the tournament.
“We are a 90 per cent Sarawakian team. There are 10 players in the squad, nine Sarawakians and only one from Kuala Lumpur, Sieu Ee.
“We have quality Sarawakian players at different levels. The Bandar Kuching tournament is a big one, so to be champion means a lot,” he told Sarawak Tribune recently.
The championship-winning squad comprised Izzul Aizuddin, Mohd Shahmirzzy Kelvin, Jason Wong Sai Kong, Ting Hu Haur, Tang Xiao Li, Eugenia David, Toi Sieu Ee, Eldon Lee Ngan Lung, Dzulkarnaen Ahmad and Emmanuel David, all of whom played key roles in the successful campaign.
Emmanuel also praised the unity and spirit within the squad, saying teamwork played a crucial role in the title-winning effort.
He expressed appreciation to MUSC Pickleball Club for its support throughout the competition.
“I am grateful for their support throughout the two-day tournament. Their support has been a huge boost for the entire team,” he added.
The victory also came with a RM3,500 prize, further highlighting the growing standard of pickleball in Sarawak as local players continue to make their mark on the competitive circuit.
