Wednesday 26/08/2026

^{Inaugural batch of participants for IACPP Certified Pickleball Professional Coach Level 1 Training in Miri, Sarawak with trainer Mr. Farrell Choo (front row, 7th from left)}



MIRI, Sarawak, Aug 26 (Bernama) -- Malaysia's fast-growing pickleball movement reached a defining moment on 22–23 August 2026, as the International Academy of Certified Pickleball Professionals PLT (IACPP) hosted its inaugural Certified Pickleball Professional Coach – Level 1 Training. The two-day programme brought together 22 participants from across Sarawak, Brunei and Kuala Lumpur, marking the launch of Malaysia's first structured coaching certification pathway for the sport.

As pickleball surges in popularity nationwide and internationally, the need for qualified, professionally trained coaches has never been greater. The IACPP Level 1 certification answers that call — incorporating a proper coaching framework grounded in sports science foundation alongside pickleball techniques and skill-teaching.

Participants gained the knowledge and practical skills to guide beginners with confidence and nurture the next wave of players. The curriculum spans four modules — Coaching Philosophy, Coaching Competency, Coaching Pickleball Through Motor Behaviour, and Pickleball Skills Level 1 Teaching — covering paddle control, stroke technique, court awareness, game fundamentals and safe session design.

Certification is rigorous. Candidates are assessed through a written examination and a practical skills assessment, and must achieve 100% attendance and a score of 80% or above to qualify.

The programme is led by Farrell Choo, widely credited with introducing pickleball to Malaysia in 2019 and laying the foundation for its national growth. Founder and former President of the Malaysia Pickleball Association, Choo brings more than 30 years of experience as a Principal in education and training. An HRD Corp Certified Trainer, holder of multiple international pickleball certifications and an individual member of the International Council for Coaching Excellence (ICCE), he has personally trained more than 800 certified instructors nationwide.

“Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports in the world, and Malaysia is right at the heart of that wave,” said Choo. “But growth without structure is fragile. By training coaches to a proper, internationally aligned standard, we make sure every participants who picks up a paddle — in a school, a club or a community court — learns the game safely and correctly. This certification is about building a foundation for the sport to thrive for generations.”

The certification is designed for aspiring and new instructors, PE teachers, school and community coaches, and volunteers seeking an internationally recognised entry-level qualification. Applicants should be 18 or above and have played for at least six to twelve months, or hold a skill rating of 3.0 and above (DUPR 3.0 with at least 80% reliability). Selected qualifications may be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

Register early — seats are limited

New intakes will be held in Miri and Kuala Lumpur in September 2026. Places are strictly first-come, first-served, and prospective participants are strongly encouraged to register early to secure a seat.

Source: M Network

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT: 
Tel:  +60 17-867 1203 
Email: admin.iacpp@gmail.com 
Website https://www.iacpp.com

--BERNAMA