The 15th National Games of China will be held grandly from November 9 to 21, 2025. As the country’s highest-level comprehensive sports event, this year’s Games hold great significance — marking the first time Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao jointly hosting the event, injecting new momentum into the development of Macao’s sports industry.
In response to and in full support of this major event, and to align with the “Healthy Campus” initiative of higher education institutions, the City University of Macau organized a “Pickleball Beginner Experience Class” for staff members on October 10, 2025. The activity aimed to enrich the cultural and sports life of them, provide a relaxed and interactive team-building platform, and was met with enthusiastic participation. Professional pickleball coaches were invited to give on-site instruction for staff members from various faculties and departments. On this first outdoor sports exchange event of the autumn, colleagues who usually interact only in work settings found their distance instantly bridged once they stepped onto the vibrant pickleball court. The venue was filled with laughter and energy, allowing participants to enjoy the fun of exercise while actively supporting Macao’s role in hosting the National Games.
The first stage of the experience class focused on pickleball fundamentals. The professional coaches combined “theoretical explanations and live demonstrations” to introduce the sport’s origins, rules, and equipment essentials. Participants learned about proper grip posture, serving power control, and return techniques, with the coaches providing one-on-one corrections for beginners. Colleagues then practiced in groups — progressing from solo wall-hitting to doubles rallies — gradually adapting to the sport’s rhythm. The open outdoor venue created a light and joyful atmosphere.
The University hopes this initiative will extend sports friendships beyond the workplace. Mr. Choi from the Finance Division said that it’s been a long time since the University organized such an activity. He was very glad to participate. The format helped them quickly bond and understand each other better, which will improve communication in future work. Many other participants expressed that they not only learned a new sport but also strengthened connections with colleagues through outdoor interaction. They hope the University will organize more similar leisure activities so that those who couldn’t join this time can also experience the joy of exercise and camaraderie.
Looking ahead, the University will continue to introduce more diverse cultural and sports activities — such as badminton leagues and yoga workshops — catering to the physical and mental well-being of staff. By promoting fitness and warm exchanges, the University will further its “Healthy Campus” development, helping staff stay energized and better balance work and life.
