KUCHING: Against all odds, newly formed WTK Pikabol Podium stunned the field to win the Fro7en Challenge Cup 2025 team event, edging out tournament favourites Berami Red in a nail-biting 3-2 final.
Led by team manager and captain Emmanuel David, better known as Coach Ujai, the squad defied expectations and delivered consistently high-level performances throughout the two-day tournament held from June 14–15 in Sibu, particularly during the knockout stages and the grand final.
Their winning lineup featured a talented and diverse roster: siblings Eugenia David and Emilio David, Izzul Aizuddin, Ariana Muralidharan, Jason Wong, Alvin Lu, Mark Leong, Vincent Leong, Lydia Wong, and Soo Haw Hia.
Team chemistry and smart lineup strategy proved decisive in their championship run.
“When I set up this team, my target was just to reach the semifinals or finish top four. Making it to the final was already a major achievement — and to win it? I’m beyond proud.
Watching them support each other and work together was amazing, especially considering the team reflects the true spirit of Malaysia, made up of all races.
We strategised and planned our lineups carefully for every match,” said Coach Ujai to Sarawak Tribune when contacted today.
In the final, WTK Pikabol Podium took an early 2-0 lead with victories from Alvin Lu and Jason Wong in the Men’s Doubles 40+, followed by a dominant win by Eugenia David and Ariana Muralidharan in the Women’s Doubles.
Berami Red clawed back into the match, taking the Men’s Open Doubles and Men’s Veteran Doubles to level the score at 2-2.
With the title on the line, Eugenia David returned to the court alongside Izzul Aizuddin to seal the deal in the Mixed Doubles decider — delivering a composed and commanding performance that crowned WTK Pikabol Podium as champions.
Coach Ujai also credited the efforts of his second squad, Podium Project 2.0, which narrowly missed the knockout stage after a close 3-2 loss to MUSCS A during the group phase.
“They gave a great fight in the group stages. Their effort, attitude, and growth were evident throughout,” he added.
He also thanked the team’s sponsors for supporting the players’ preparations, travel, and post-match recovery, saying the backing made a meaningful difference.
Both teams committed fully to their pre-tournament training, which paid off in their mental and physical preparedness on court.
