Young picklers eye Asian spotlight

MANILA, Philippines — The Pickleball Champions League Asia Rising Stars U19 Sectional Tournament in Davao City officially got underway at Pickletown Tuesday, marking the first time a youth event of this scale and international significance has been staged for the fast-growing sport in the region.

The Rising Stars U19 Sectional, part of the Kosmas Pickle Fest 2026, is a five-day team-based competition designed to identify and develop the next generation of elite pickleball athletes across Asia.

More than just another tournament, the sectional serves as an official qualifying event. Winning teams earn the opportunity to advance to higher-level Rising Stars competitions and compete against top youth players from across the region.

The U19 division features mixed-gender teams composed of two male and two female athletes competing under a professional team format. Matches follow the official PCL Asia Rising Stars Rulebook and officiated according to international standards, ensuring world-class competition on home soil.

The event is organized locally by Kosmas Athletic Ventures Corp. (KAVC), headed by Sophia Lapus, in partnership with Sunrise Events, Inc.