Japan’s Pickleball Organizations UniteJPA and PJF Officially Merge, Launching “Pickleball Japan (PJ)”

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— A New Start as Japan’s National Governing Body —

PICKLEBALL JAPAN

The Japan Pickleball Association (JPA) and the Pickleball Japan Federation (PJF) have agreed to merge to promote the sustainable growth of pickleball in Japan and to establish a unified competitivestructure. The merger agreement was signed on March 13, 2026, and will officially take effect on April 14, 2026.

On April 10, 2026, the new structure will be announced, marking a new start as the national governing body for pickleball in Japan.

This merger was agreed upon by both organizations on an equal basis and will operate under a newly established governance structure. Moving forward, the external name Pickleball Japan (PJ) will be used for the Pickleball Japan Federation to promote the development and growth of pickleball inJapan.

Pickleball Japan (PJ) Logo

The new logo is based on the existing PJF logo and incorporates the colors of the Japan Pickleball Association (JPA), symbolizing integration and a new beginning.

■New Governance Structure

Chairperson:

Rika Riordan

Vice Chairperson:

Shigeru Nishigami

Secretary General:

Gaku Koizumi

Executive Directors:

Kento Sasaki

Koki Sugimoto

Yuki Tanaka

Chiharu Hachiya Lorenzoni

Masahiro Marutani

■Core Philosophy

Core Statement

Pickleball — the sport that connects people.

【Mission】

Through pickleball, we connect people and contribute to the development of a sports culture that fosters vibrant communities and healthy lives.

We will expand the inclusive and accessible nature of pickleball — a sport that brings generations and backgrounds together — creating opportunities to enjoy, compete, and support one another. Weaim to build an environment where anyone can participate easily.

At the same time, we will balance athletic competitiveness with social value, strengthening competition environments, developing the sport’s foundation, and nurturing athletes. Through this, we aimto cultivate a new sports culture that connects people across generations and backgrounds.

【Values】

Inclusiveness

A sport open to everyone regardless of age, gender, experience, or background.

Connection

Creating communities where people naturally connect through pickleball.

Fun & Well-being

Contributing to society as a lifelong sport that promotes enjoyment and health.

Fair Play

Ensuring fair and transparent competition management and fostering mutual respect.

Excellence

Building a globally connected competitive foundation based on international standards.

【Vision】

Through pickleball, we aim to create a society where people connect beyond generations and backgrounds, and communities expand nationwide.

We also aim to develop athletes who compete globally and establish pickleball as a new sports culture connecting people and countries around the world.

■Future Outlook

Through this merger, pickleball in Japan enters a new stage. Moving forward, we will promote:

・Strengthening the national governing structure

・Expanding collaboration with international federations

・Development of national tournaments

・Growth of participation nationwide

・Establishment of athlete development systems

・Promotion of regional grassroots activities

This integration will unify Japan’s pickleball community and build a competitive foundation connected to the world.

Looking ahead to future international competitions and potential Olympic inclusion, we will continue developing athletes and improving competitive environments.

Competitions and certification systems planned for FY2026 will continue under the new structure while respecting existing plans.