My name is Allan Avila, and I’m an amateur pickleball player from Fremont, California. This year, something extraordinary happened — something I never expected, and something I’m deeply honored to share with you.

Last March, while on vacation in the Philippines, I entered a pickleball tournament simply to experience playing in the country where I was born. I don’t really consider myself a tournament player. I just wanted to enjoy the moment.

To my surprise, I won Gold in the Men’s Singles, Open, 60+ division at the 1st Philippine Pickleball Amateur Nationals. That victory led to an invitation I never imagined: I was selected to represent Team Philippines in the Masters Division (60+) at the 2026 Pickleball World Cup in Da Nang, Vietnam.

This opportunity is deeply meaningful. I get to honor the Philippines — the country of my birth — while also proudly representing the community that shaped me: my friends, fellow players, and supporters in the Bay Area.

Why I Need Your Support

Although the Philippine Pickleball Federation has accredited me as an official member of Team Philippines, support of the Masters team is limited to team registration fees and uniforms. All other expenses are my responsibility, including:

Competing at the World Cup is a tremendous honor — but it is also a significant financial challenge. That’s why I’m reaching out to my community for help.

Recent Achievements

Your support will help me build on a truly special year:

Philippine Pickleball Amateur Nationals (2026)

USA Pickleball Golden Ticket Block Party (2026)

These results earned me a place on the world stage — and I want to make the most of it.

Why This Means So Much to Me

Representing the Philippines is deeply personal. I left the country as a child and have lived in the U.S. practically all my life, but my roots have always stayed with me. To return now — not just as a visitor, but as an athlete carrying the Philippine flag — is something I never dreamed possible.

At the same time, I carry with me the spirit of the Bay Area pickleball community. My friends, fellow players, and local courts have shaped me into the player I am today. I’m proud to represent both my heritage and my home.

This journey is a celebration of both.

How Your Support Helps

Your contribution — no matter the amount — directly supports my ability to compete at the highest level. In return:

I’m not a big social media person, but I promise I’ll do my best to keep everyone updated and make you feel part of this journey. If you’ve ever cheered me on, played with me, or simply love seeing local athletes chase big dreams, I hope you’ll consider supporting this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Thank You

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Thank you for supporting pickleball, for supporting local athletes, and for supporting me as I take on this incredible challenge.

I’m excited. I’m grateful. And I’m proud — proud to represent the Philippines, proud to represent the Bay Area, and proud to represent all of you.

Let’s do this together.

— Allan Avila Fremont, CA, Team Philippines, Masters Division (60+) 2026 Pickleball World Cup