The Assam Pickleball Association achieved a historic milestone at the 4th IPA Nationals, held at Bennett University in Noida from January 23-26, 2025. This was Assam’s first-ever participation in this prestigious national-level event, and their debut performance has left an indelible mark on the tournament’s history.
Historic Performance by Assam’s Women Athletes
The 16-member team representing the Assam Pickleball Association showcased exceptional talent, determination, and sportsmanship in their maiden appearance. Competing across multiple categories, the athletes stood out for their remarkable performances against seasoned players from across the country.
The highlight of the event was the performance of Assam’s women athletes in the 50+ individual categories. Babita Langthasa brought glory to the state by clinching a medal in the singles category. Additionally, the doubles team of Babita Langthasa and Nazneen Rahman secured another medal, marking a memorable debut for Assam in the tournament.
This achievement is a testament to the athletes’ hard work, resilience, and dedication to the sport, even as newcomers on the national stage.
Fierce Competition at IPA Nationals 2025
The 4th IPA Nationals witnessed fierce competition among teams from various states, reflecting the growing popularity of pickleball in India. Despite facing experienced opponents, Assam’s players demonstrated outstanding skills, composure, and grit. Their success against formidable teams underscores the state’s untapped potential in pickleball and its readiness to compete at higher levels.
Assam’s Growing Interest in Pickleball
The success of Assam’s athletes at the IPA Nationals is more than just a sporting achievement; it reflects the rising popularity of pickleball in the state. Pickleball, a fast-paced sport that combines elements of badminton, tennis, and table tennis, has been gaining traction across India, and Assam is no exception.
The Assam Pickleball Association, through its efforts to promote and nurture local talent, has played a pivotal role in developing the sport in the state. The Association’s commitment to providing training, infrastructure, and opportunities for players is now bearing fruit, as evidenced by the team’s commendable performance at the Nationals.
Impact of Assam’s Success at the IPA Nationals
This landmark achievement is expected to inspire more athletes from Assam to take up pickleball, contributing to the sport’s growth in the region. It also serves as a morale booster for the Assam Pickleball Association, motivating them to continue their efforts in grooming talented players for future tournaments.
The success of Assam’s athletes at the IPA Nationals is not just a personal victory for the medal winners but also a collective triumph for the state. It highlights Assam’s potential to emerge as a strong contender in national and international pickleball events.
With this historic debut, the Assam Pickleball Association has laid a solid foundation for the state’s representation in pickleball. The medals won by Assam’s athletes have not only brought recognition to the state but also established a benchmark for future participation in prestigious tournaments.
Moving forward, the focus will be on building a robust pipeline of talented players through grassroots initiatives, training programs, and exposure to competitive platforms. The Association’s success at the 4th IPA Nationals has demonstrated the importance of sustained efforts and strategic planning in promoting a sport.
As the popularity of pickleball continues to grow, Assam is well-positioned to become a key player in India’s pickleball landscape. The achievements at the Nationals have set the stage for even greater accomplishments, with the state aiming to expand its presence in upcoming tournaments.
The Assam Pickleball Association’s participation in the 4th IPA Nationals marks a turning point in the state’s sporting journey. The silver and bronze medals won by Assam’s women athletes highlight the state’s potential in pickleball and serve as an inspiration for aspiring players.
With the unwavering support of the Association and the dedication of its athletes, Assam is poised to achieve greater success in pickleball, both nationally and internationally. This remarkable debut at the IPA Nationals underscores the state’s commitment to fostering excellence in sports and paving the way for a bright future in pickleball.