Erin Yang to Compete for Team Manitoba at National Pickleball Championships

UPDATE: Erin Yang, a rising star in the pickleball world, is set to represent Team Manitoba at the 2025 Pickleball Canada National Championships, taking place from August 19-25 in Winnipeg. This year’s event will gather over 700 players from across Canada, making it a significant milestone for the sport in the province.

Yang, who moved to Brandon alone in 2020 without family or friends, discovered her passion for pickleball in 2021 and has since transformed her life through the sport. “Pickleball definitely helped me settle down in Brandon and build local connections. I’ve made lifelong friends through this game,” Yang stated, highlighting the emotional impact of her journey.

Originally from China, Yang began her athletic career playing badminton before transitioning to pickleball. Frustrated by the long commute to Winnipeg for badminton, she saw a Facebook ad for an introductory pickleball session and decided to give it a shot. By summer 2022, she was hooked and quickly began to excel, medaling at her first national championships in 2023.

“I’ve always liked racket sports. Pickleball combines elements of badminton, table tennis, and tennis, which makes it uniquely addictive,” Yang explained. She will compete at the 4.5 level in both Ladies Doubles and Mixed Doubles, just below the professional level.

The national championships will also introduce a new Provincial/Territorial Team Competition, featuring teams from across Canada, a move that resonates with Yang. “It’s an honor to be selected among the best players in our province,” she remarked, emphasizing her desire to showcase Manitoba’s talent on a national stage.

As Yang prepares for this prestigious event, she practices regularly, aiming for top results against both amateur and professional players. “My goal is to medal in the events I’ve registered for,” she added, underscoring her ambitious spirit.

The growth of pickleball in Manitoba is evident, with membership in Pickleball Manitoba surging from 400 to nearly 2,500 members in just three years. “The sport is attracting younger players, and our average age is now below 55,” said Ted Fardoe, president of Pickleball Manitoba. He believes that hosting the national championships will elevate the sport’s profile and encourage even more participation.

“The friendly and welcoming nature of pickleball communities is a huge draw,” Yang noted, inviting newcomers to join the sport. “Just get yourself on the court. You’ll find one of the most friendly sports communities out there.”

The national championships will feature various events, including Men’s and Women’s Singles and Doubles, Mixed Doubles, and Junior categories. The excitement surrounding this event marks a significant moment for both the players and the sport itself.

As the countdown to the championships begins, Yang and her teammates are eager to demonstrate their skills and the spirit of Manitoba. “We’re proud to present this tournament to players across the country. I look forward to this event being a big success,” Yang concluded.

Stay tuned for more updates as the 2025 Pickleball Canada National Championships approach, promising to be a thrilling showcase of talent and community spirit in Winnipeg.