PIC China Launches YOUTH CAMPS

The Pickleball International Committee (PIC) and Beijing Changshi Sports (CSS) today announced the authorization of Shanghai Yixin Education Technology Co., Ltd. (YET) to organize and operate International Pickleball Summer Camps and in-camp tournaments in mainland China, excluding Hong Kong, Macau, and Taiwan.

The partnership will adopt a “1+2 year cooperation model.” The first phase will begin in March 2026 with an initial one-year program, which may extend for an additional two years based on the success of the initial phase. The structure is designed to establish a sustainable and long-term youth development platform for pickleball in China.

This initiative represents an innovative step by PIC and CSS in expanding the global footprint of pickleball. By combining sports training, youth development, and international exchange opportunities, the program aims to introduce Chinese youth to one of the world’s fastest-growing sports while building stronger connections with the international pickleball community.

The program will be operated by Shanghai Yixin Education Technology Co., Ltd. (YET), the exclusive authorized partner for Discovery Education’s school programs and camp programs in China. With extensive experience in international education cooperation and youth programs, YET will oversee program operations in China, including summer camp curriculum development, the organization of camp tournaments.

Mr. Terry Cecil, CEO of PIC, welcomed the initiative and praised the innovative cooperation model:

“Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide. We are excited to see such an innovative model that integrates sports, education, and international exchange take shape in China. Through the International Pickleball Summer Camps, young people in China will have the opportunity to experience this dynamic sport while developing healthy lifestyles, teamwork, and global perspectives.PIC looks forward to supporting the continued growth of pickleball in China and welcoming more young players into the global pickleball community.”

Pickleball has experienced rapid growth around the world in recent years and is widely recognized as one of the fastest-expanding sports globally. Its accessibility, inclusive nature, and engaging gameplay make it particularly suitable for youth and school sports programs.

As youth sports development and physical education initiatives continue to expand in China, pickleball is expected to find significant opportunities for growth. Industry observers believe that through the collaboration of international sports organizations, educational institutions, and professional operators, the sport has the potential to become an important new component of China’s youth sports ecosystem.

PIC and CSS emphasized that the initiative represents not only the introduction of a new sport but also a new model combining sports development, education, and international cultural exchange, which may further accelerate the growth of pickleball across China.