By MJ Gil | JULY 2026
There was a time when I thought pickleball was just another trending sport. But the moment I picked up a paddle and stepped onto the court, I quickly realized it was so much more than that. It became something I genuinely looked forward to—not just because of the game itself, but because of the people I got to share it with.
My pickleball journey started in 2024 when my friends and I joined the open play sessions organized by SM Baliuag as part of its Summer Active Hub program. Every weekend became a double dose of fun—I played badminton in the afternoon and pickleball at night. Those evenings were spent learning the rules, practicing basic drills, mastering the dink, and discovering the strategy behind the game.
One of the things I love most about pickleball is how welcoming it is. Whether you’re young or old, athletic or just starting your fitness journey, anyone can pick up a paddle and enjoy the game. It’s easy to learn yet challenging enough to keep you coming back for more.
What started as a weekend hobby soon became a growing community. Our group expanded, with players coming from different barangays and towns across Bulacan. Through open plays, we met more enthusiasts who invited us to games in other cities, allowing us to experience different courts and connect with even more people who shared the same passion.
Playing with them has become one of the highlights of my week. Whether it’s a friendly match after work or a weekend tournament, every game is filled with laughter, healthy competition, and unforgettable moments. At the end of the day, it doesn’t really matter who wins or loses. What matters most are the friendships we build through every rally, every point, and every shared celebration.
These days, I don’t get to play as often because I’ve been focusing on Spartan races and ultramarathon training. Still, whenever my schedule allows, I’m always happy to get back on the court—especially when playing with friends or my colleagues from NLEX.
Beyond the physical benefits, pickleball has given me something even more valuable: meaningful connections. On the court, job titles, positions, and responsibilities fade into the background. We’re simply teammates, opponents, and friends enjoying a sport that brings us together.
For me, pickleball is more than just a recreational activity. It’s a reminder that some of life’s best moments are also the simplest—sharing laughs after a long rally, celebrating a perfectly placed shot, learning from mistakes, and encouraging one another to keep improving.
Photo Credits to Owners: Rosy Santos, Andeng Evangelista, and LJ Peralta
As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, I’m grateful to be part of a community that values not only fitness but also friendship and inclusivity. Every match is an opportunity to stay active, challenge yourself, meet new people, and create lasting memories.
After all, the best part of pickleball isn’t just keeping the ball in play—it’s keeping the connections alive, one game at a time.
If you’re interested in joining open plays, looking for players near you, or searching for courts in your area, I highly recommend downloading the Reclub app, available on both the App Store and Google Play. Who knows? Your first game might just be the start of an amazing community and lifelong friendships.
