I recently participated in an out-of-school pickleball fundraising tournament, which gave me the opportunity to combine my interest in sports with contributing to a meaningful cause. This experience pushed me to grow in various ways, especially as I had to adapt to a formal competitive environment outside my usual school activities.

LO2 – Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken and new skills developed

Participating in an external tournament was challenging because the environment was unfamiliar and the competition tougher than what I usually experience. I had to manage performance pressure, stay focused, and adapt quickly to different playing styles. Through this, I developed new skills such as better court awareness, improved stamina, and more strategic thinking. I also learned how to control my nerves and maintain confidence even during intense matches, which strengthened my overall gameplay.

LO3 – Demonstrate how to initiate and plan a CAS experience

Since this tournament was outside school, I had to take initiative in planning everything myself from registering for the event to organising my practice sessions. I created a training routine, researched techniques used by experienced players, and coordinated with my playing partner to practice regularly. Balancing the preparation with my school work taught me time management and showed me the importance of structured planning in ensuring a CAS experience is successful and meaningful.

LO6 – Engagement with issues of global significance

The fact that the tournament was a fundraising event connected this experience to wider global issues. It supported the idea that sports can be used as a platform to promote well-being and raise funds for social causes. Across the world, sports are increasingly used for community development, health awareness, and charity. Participating in this event made me realise how even a local tournament can contribute to larger efforts such as promoting access to resources, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and supporting communities in need.

LO7 – Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions

Playing in the tournament made me reflect deeply on sportsmanship and ethical behaviour. I ensured fairness in every match, respected all players, and followed the rules strictly, especially since the event supported a cause. It was important to me that my actions aligned with the spirit of the fundraiser. This experience helped me understand how my behaviour honesty, respect, and integrity can influence the environment around me and contribute positively to any community event.