MIRI: A new international body aimed at standardising pickleball coaching and certification will be in operations next month, as the sport continues its rapid expansion in Malaysia.
The International Academy of Certified Pickleball Professionals (IACPP) said its inaugural training and certification programmes will start in May, positioning itself as a global benchmark for coaching standards, education and professional development in the sport.
Pickleball, once considered a niche recreational activity, has seen significant growth in recent years, driven by its accessibility and cross-generational appeal.
In Malaysia, participation has surged, prompting calls for more structured training systems and qualified coaching personnel.
The IACPP said it was established to address that gap, offering what it describes as a comprehensive and internationally aligned curriculum designed to develop a professional workforce in the sport.
Its certification framework is built around participant-centred coaching principles, integrating technical proficiency, tactical awareness and teaching methodology with broader athlete development models.
The academy said trainees would undergo a structured progression of modules, combining classroom-based learning with practical coaching experience.
Certification will be based on standardised assessments, with exposure to international benchmarks in coaching practice.
There is also a strong emphasis on youth development and grassroots expansion, reflecting the sport’s current growth trajectory.
Beyond training, the academy has outlined a wider ambition to shape the global ecosystem of pickleball.
It aims to build a network of certified instructors and support the sport’s development across community, educational and competitive platforms.
Its stated objectives include promoting inclusivity, supporting institutional partnerships and establishing clearer pathways for both players and coaches.
The initiative is led by Farrell Choo, widely credited with introducing pickleball to Malaysia in 2019.
With more than three decades of experience in education and sports development, he has played a central role in expanding the sport nationwide.
Under his leadership, pickleball has grown from a fringe activity into one of the country’s fastest-rising sports, now present across all states and federal territories.
The academy said its curriculum has been designed to reflect both current industry needs and future demands, balancing practical application with long-term development goals.
The first intake of courses will be open to aspiring coaches, physical education teachers, sports development officers and club operators, as well as individuals seeking formal certification in the sport.
The launch signals a shift towards greater professionalisation within pickleball, as governing bodies and industry players move to formalise standards in line with its global rise.
The IACPP said further details on course structures and enrolment are available on its official website.
