Nagaland Pickleball Association hosts Dimapur Pickleball Open

Dimapur Pickleball Open, organised by Nagaland Pickleball Association (NPA) concluded at Fitness House, Dimapur, on September 21, with the fast-emerging sport, drawing encouraging participation not only from Dimapur but neighbouring districts, including Assam.
Addressing the gathering, president, Indian Pickleball Association (IPA), Suryaveer Singh Bhullar, expressed confidence in the Northeast’s potential, describing the region as home to natural athletes who can excel at the sport.
He further emphasized that Pickleball, was one amongst the most affordable sports with relatively low court-making costs, and racket price starting from Rs 500, has the potential to grow rapidly and emerge as the second-biggest sport after cricket.
Meanwhile, sharing the vision of NPA, president, NPA, Nathan Zeliang, highlited the association formation.
Outlining the association’s roadmap for the next 6–12 months, Zeliang said that the focus would be on grassroots and schools through introductory clinics, inter-school and inter-college matches, and distribution of starter kits.
He added that other priorities included certification pathways for coaches and referees, establishing a transparent state ranking system, forming clubs and improving court facilities across districts.
He also announced that the Niathu Pickleball Open, would be held on October 10 and 11, adding that the event would build on the competitive momentum, welcome new players, and further strengthen the ecosystem.
General secretary, NPA, Nisuka Khulu, highlighted the success of the ongoing Dimapur Pickleball Open, which carried a total prize pool of over Rs. 1 lakh. The tournament, he said, featured three categories, Men’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles, with participation of 23 players, 22 men’s doubles teams, and 10 mixed doubles teams.
Meanwhile, IPA’s North East Development Officer and Secretary of Assam Pickleball Association, Nazneen Rahman, lauded the efforts of NPA, remarking that Nagaland has set a benchmark not only for the states under Northeast, but also for other states across the country.
Vice president, NPA, Kakivi Chishi also highlighted briefly on Pickleball as a sport and how it was emerging as one of the most sought after sport in the state.
Results:
Mixed doubles runner up: Imsumeren Lonchar and Lentina Longkumer
Mixed doubles winner: Rajat Sarda and Anangsha Alomyan
Mens singles runner up: Zhaputso Khate
Mens singles winner: Vilasier Khate
Mens doubles runner up: Nzamo Kikon and Imsuren Longchar
Mens doubles winner: Tonoto Ayemi and David Murry