Cancer is huge problem for the world and the people living in it. Play-to-beat cancer was a pickleball tournament orgainzed by one of my friends in order to collect money for donating towards cancer. Pickleball is a paddle sport played on a badminton-sized court with a slightly lowered net that blends aspects of ping-pong, badminton, and tennis. Two or four players can play the game, which involves hitting a perforated plastic ball over the net with paddles. Pickleball is a sport that i had never played before but it always seemed interesting to me, thats why I took up the challenge and ployed in this tournament. I have always loved to push myself and take up challenges thats why I participated in this activity. My main purpose was to just enjoy through the event and explore the sport of pickleball properly. 

LO3: Demonstrate how to initiate and plan a CAS experience

I needed to organize and schedule my practice sessions and schoolwork so that I could participate in the Play-to-Beat-Cancer tournament. I needed to organize how I was going to learn the fundamentals of pickleball prior to the event since it was a new sport to me. I don’t consider myself to be the most organized person by nature, but I ensured I was disciplined with my time for this event. The most challenging thing was beginning the learning process by attempting a new sport that I had never tried before, something that went beyond my comfort zone. I learned that I can change my mind very quickly and invest in learning something new when I need to.This experience has shown me that planning and beginnings are not as intimidating as they appear. I now feel more prepared to experiment with new things in the future. Having the ability to plan and begin activities is crucial because it allows you to convert ideas into actions and boosts your confidence.

LO4: Show commitment to and perseverance in CAS experiences

The most difficult aspect of this exercise was mastering the sport and keeping pace with players who already knew the game. There were moments in practice when I became frustrated, but I reminded myself that the objective wasn’t to be perfect; it was to participate and help a cause. Despite the fact that I was a new sportsperson, I demonstrated my dedication by constantly attempting to improve and being present for games. Now I realize that I can be extremely stubborn when the goal is something I am interested in. Being persistent and dedicated is essential as they harden us mentally and demonstrate to others—and to ourselves—that we can endure difficult situations for a larger purpose.

LO5: Demonstrate the skills and recognize the benefits of working collaboratively

Collaborating with others is something I usually like doing, particularly when the environment is inclusive. Throughout the tournament, I had the chance to socialize with teammates and fellow participants — most of whom were better at playing. It wasn’t hard working with them since everyone was friendly, and we all wanted to help the cause. I did not have anyone especially tough to confront, but I did experience some times when I was nervous during games. Encouragement from others assisted me in managing that nervousness. This activity brought home the value of teamwork — not only of winning, but of learning and gaining confidence. Cooperation and leadership made the experience more delightful and rewarding.

LO7: Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions

The ethical concern in doing this activity was that it was significant to bring awareness and contribute to a cause as grave as cancer responsibly. I wasn’t personally touched by cancer, but I understand how it impacts individuals and families, so it was a good feeling to contribute to this cause. It made me realize that even the small things, such as attending a charity event, can have a grand impact. I had believed that the only means of assisting others was by providing them with money, yet the activity revealed to me that action and participation are essential as well. I used to believe that donating money was the only thing you could do to assist causes you care about, but nowadays I believe that you can use your talents, time, or even your interests like sport in a moral and efficient manner.

Final Takeaway

I was able to develop key IB learner profile traits such as risk-taking, communication, and empathy through this activity. Working towards a cause such as cancer heightened my sense of empathy, and attempting a new sport and befriending new people compelled me to go beyond my comfort zone. I also found a connection with biology because I knew the psychological as well as the scientific impact of cancer. The event directly helped the ones affected by cancer by bringing in money and awareness.

The feeling of belonging and how sport was used as a tool for change were the best parts for me. I felt an immense feeling of achievement and victory despite not winning. It proved to me that making the world a better place can be a fun experience and that all one needs is commitment. I would plan more if I was going to repeat this.

I learned the value of service, determination, and collaboration from this experience—values I will apply in my lifetime. Through comparable projects where fun and value align, I aspire to continue contributing to society in a positive way.