Pickleball sparks new energy in activities of Hanoi People’s Committee Youth Union

THE HANOI TIMES - Cheers, laughter and the sound of paddles striking plastic balls filled the courts as young civil servants from different departments gathered for a new kind of competition.

The first-ever Pickleball tournament organized by units in the Emulation Cluster of the Youth Union of the Hanoi People’s Committee left behind a spirit of creativity, connection and pride on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the August Revolution and National Day.

It was also the second major event held by the Youth Union of the Hanoi People’s Committee since its establishment, further showing its determination to bring fresh, meaningful activities to young officials of the capital.

According to Nguyen Ngoc Tiep, a representative of the Organizing Committee, the idea had been nurtured for some time but was only realized within a month.

“It was a very tight schedule because the city had so many important events to prepare. Still, the units responded with enthusiasm and determination, making sure the tournament could take place,” he said.

Pickleball, a sport still new to Vietnam, proved to be an inspired choice. Easy to learn yet highly competitive, it quickly won the attention of players who were familiar with tennis and badminton.

“We wanted something fresh that would appeal to our members and also encourage creativity. Pickleball brought exactly that,” Tiep explained.

Throughout the day, the courts became a lively stage. Teams cheered each other on, colleagues who usually met in formal meetings were now partners in rallies and volleys and moments of sporting drama drew bursts of applause.

One of the highlights was the courage of female athletes who fought through injuries, refusing to give up on the game.

For many in the stands, those images captured the vitality and resilience of Hanoi’s youth.

“We wanted to show that young civil servants in Hanoi are not just skilled professionals at their desks. They are energetic, innovative, and ready to embrace new challenges together,” said Tiep.

For the Youth Union of Kinh te & Do thi (Economic & Urban) Newspaper, the victory was especially sweet.

The union's secretary Ho Thuy Tien was excited after her team won the top prize.

“I was so proud and happy. Many of our members joined, and everyone felt the joy of being in such a healthy, civilized and cheerful environment," she said.

It allowed us to connect, make new friends and share experiences. For young people, this is also a foundation to build motivation for healthier lifestyles."

Athletes themselves also spoke of the meaning of the tournament. Dong Hung, who competed in the mixed doubles, described the experience as both challenging and uplifting.

“Pickleball was new to me, but once we stepped on the court, the excitement was real. Every rally felt like a chance to prove our spirit," said Hung.

What I remember most is how teammates and even rivals encouraged each other,” he said.

The smiles and camaraderie on the courts reflected more than competition.

For many participants, the tournament was a reminder that youth activities can be both meaningful and enjoyable, providing a balance between professional duties and personal growth.

Looking ahead, the organizers plan to build on this success. Proposals have been made to include pickleball in the annual Sports Day, turning it into a regular fixture that brings units together year after year.

“We want this momentum to continue. Sports are a powerful way to unite people, and we believe pickleball can play a long-term role in our activities,” Tiep affirmed.

As the tournament closed, the sound of the final rally and the lasting impression of a new tradition in the making remained.

With its success, the activities of the Youth Union of the Hanoi People’s Committee are expected to grow even more diverse, reaffirming the role of the young generation in building a dynamic and globally connected capital.