In celebration of the rapid rise of pickleball in the Philippines.
Last October 13, sports apparel and gear retailer Decathlon Philippines welcomed fans and athletes in the exclusive Asia Showcase featuring pickleball World No. 1 Anna Leigh Waters, which is in conjunction with American sports brand Franklin Sports.
The event gave fans an intimate meet-and-greet with Anna Leigh Waters and her coach and mother, Leigh Waters.
Attendees had their paddles and exclusive photo cards autographed while getting an up-close look at Franklinʼs mystery paddle teased to be launched soon.
The event gathered prominent figures from sports and entertainment, including celebrity Vern Ong, beauty queen Alethea Ambrosio, and professional volleyball player Ced Domingo.
The spotlight also shone on 11-year-old rising star Gabe Ocampo, a decorated Philippine Pickleball League 13U multi medalist, who fulfilled a dream by playing an exhibition point with Waters.
Fresh off securing her 200th PPA Tour title, the undefeated 19-year-old Anna Leigh Waters reflected on the sport’s welcoming nature.
“If you are growing up and wondering if you should try pickleball or not, I would say give it a shot because I was one of the haters before I started playing. I just played one time, and the first time I hit the ball, I knew that this was something I would love to continue doing… There’s room for anybody to play pickleball because pickleball is so inclusive,” she said.
Jessica de Leon-Ramos, Country Marketing & Communications Leader of Decathlon Philippines, shared: “…for Anna Leigh and Coach Leigh to be here today with the community, and from what I can see mostly women, serves as a huge inspiration for players to meet an athlete at the top of their game whether they’re just starting their journey in the sport or are looking to improve.”
She added, “And I feel that it really aligns with our purpose here at Decathlon, movement can begin anywhere, any time, and if they’ve found it through seeing their favorite athlete in person, we can be very proud.ˮ
