With the recent trend of the emerging sport, I had recently been exploring the depths of pickleball. Developing increasing interest in the same, I decided to participate in the “Play2BeatCancer” tournament, for the sake of contributing my limited knowledge towards the sport towards something bigger. The event was fun to be a part of, and combined their earnings to raise money for cancer patients. I learned more about strength in unity for a cause, teamwork, and skill development.

LO 2: Demonstrate that challenges have been undertaken, developing new skills in the process.

There were several challenges I had to face when deciding to be a part of this tournament. Since I was already new to this sport, it already demanded for physical ability, teamwork, and perseverance. However, that added with the environment of a tournament really pushed me to do my best in a situation with pressure, using strategies, overcoming hardships, etc.

At some points it was really difficult to keep up with my decision to keep participating in the tournament looking at the competitive and skilled players that were competing with me, but I had to remind myself of the cause the tournament was for, and the fact that I was participating to make myself better and give myself the chance to acquire new experiences.

I improved my athletic ability by pushing myself to my best ability in my match, along with my hand-eye coordination skills, as well as my ability to think and make decisions under pressure. Apart from these, it also enriched my community engagement as I interacted with the organizers and players and reminded myself of the contribution I was making by putting in efforts for a community of patients.

LO 6: Demonstrate engagement with issues of global significance.

Cancer is a worldwide health challenge that impacts several people regardless of age, gender, or nationality. By participating in this tournament, I directly engaged with this issue, finding a means through which I could make a difference on a personal level.

Additionally, despite making an impact on just a personal level, my contribution showcased how a small action can also make an effect on an issue that seems large and unattainable. The participation also showcased my awareness about the issue at hand, and how by participating and advocating for the tournament, I was letting others know about the same.

LO 7: Recognize and consider the ethics of choices and actions.

Through this activity, I showcased my awareness of ethical responsibility, since the tournament was not simply a means of personal gain or betterment, but rather for the purpose of a social cause. Beyond that, my fair and justified participation in the tournament was an example of ethics in sports, exhibiting how it isn’t simply restricted to social causes but also consists of sportsmanship and fair play.

I also exhibited awareness of privilege, recognizing the fact that I have the ability and resources to participate and compete in the tournament, and making the conscious choice to use that ability and privilege for a cause that supports people struggling with terminal illness. Moreover, I also made a choice to participate in a tournament that showcased responsibility and transparency, ensuring that the money collected went only to the cause that was intended and nowhere else.