US TO INTEGRATE PICKLE BALL TO COMPETITIVE COLLEGE SPORT IN 2026 SEASON
In a bold move to revolutionize school sports programs, GD Goenka School has become the first educational institution in the region to integrate pickleball and padel into its physical education curriculum. This forward-thinking initiative not only exposes students to the fast-growing racket sports but also fosters a diverse athletic education, potentially setting a new standard for innovation in school sports programs worldwide.
Since its introduction in 2008, pickleball has been gaining momentum in India, championed by the All India Pickleball Association for its easy-to-learn nature and suitability for all ages. Now, GD Goenka School is leading the charge by embracing this trend and incorporating both pickleball and padel into its physical education program.
Ms. Amrita Bahl, Chief Education Officer at GD Goenka Group, emphasized the importance of integrating sports like pickleball and padel into the curriculum, stating that it goes beyond just exercise. “It’s about nurturing well-rounded individuals who are equipped with essential life skills,” she remarked. “Pickleball and padel, in addition to honing cognitive and collaboration skills, also ensure inclusivity, catering to diverse interests and abilities.”
The move to integrate these sports into the curriculum not only provides students with enjoyable ways to stay active but also promotes lifelong habits of physical well-being. Furthermore, exposure to a variety of sports can help identify and nurture future athletic talent, providing students with valuable skills and discipline that can translate to success in other sports as well.
Moreover, sports like pickleball and padel serve as powerful tools for promoting international understanding and diplomacy. As these sports gain traction globally, participation in them can connect students with their peers from other countries, fostering cultural exchange and building bridges of friendship across borders.
Elsewhere The integration of pickleball and padel into the physical education program at GD Goenka School highlights the importance of diversifying sports offerings in school programs. In the United States, where sports like football and basketball dominate the college sports landscape, there is a need to broaden the scope and introduce students to a wider range of athletic activities. And the US college authority just confirmed the process is being incubated and will be introduce soon from the 2026 sports season.
While football and basketball undoubtedly hold significant cultural and economic importance in the US, expanding college sports programs to include sports like pickleball and padel can provide students with additional opportunities for athletic development. These sports offer unique benefits, such as promoting inclusivity, honing cognitive skills, and fostering international understanding, which are valuable in today’s interconnected world.
By following GD Goenka School’s example and diversifying college sports programs, the US can not only provide students with a more well-rounded athletic education but also contribute to the global promotion of sports diplomacy and cultural exchange. Embracing sports like pickleball and padel can pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse sporting landscape in the US collegiate system.
