Pickleball continues to grow in Sabah with the launch of Todi Pickleball School at The Good Club in Tanjung Aru on 7 October 2026. Founded through a joint venture between Todi, established by Faizal Osman, and MCC Pickleball Club, the academy marks a new milestone for the sport in Borneo.
Key Takeaways:
- Todi Pickleball School is now active in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, welcoming players aged six and up.
- Pro player Faizal Osman (21 professional titles) leads the academy as General Manager and Head Coach.
- The partnership with MCC Pickleball Club creates clear pathways to regional and national competition.
- The school aims to foster community growth and produce world-class talent from the region.
A Game-Changer for Sabah Pickleball
Kota Kinabalu has welcomed a powerhouse institution with the launch of the Todi Pickleball School. Designed for enthusiasts aged six and above, this academy is more than just a training ground; it's a strategic investment in the future of Malaysian pickleball. The vision is clear: to cultivate talent and significantly boost the sport's accessibility across the community.
The Visionary Behind the Drive
At the helm is Faizal Osman, serving as both General Manager and Head Coach. Faizal, a formidable professional player boasting 21 professional titles, saw immense potential during a visit to Sabah last year. His decision to establish the centre in Kota Kinabalu reflects a deeper commitment to player development.
"This is more than just an academy with a coaching program," Faizal emphasized. "We want to create a platform where students can truly learn and develop as players, not just hit balls." His expertise is set to be invaluable for aspiring athletes.
Forging Pathways to Glory
The launch's significance is amplified by a crucial partnership with the MCC Pickleball Club. President Faiezah Yunus underscored how this collaboration provides students with a direct pipeline to regional competitions and future opportunities to represent Sabah and Malaysia on the national and international stage.
Building World-Class Talent
"What makes this launch truly special is our partnership with Todi," Faiezah shared. "Working alongside Faizal Osman, a pro player who boasts 21 professional titles to his name, will bring invaluable expertise to our program. I am confident that under his guidance, Sabah is well on its way to producing world-class talent capable of competing on the international stage."
Community & Collaboration at its Core
The official inauguration was graced by Datuk Norazlinah Arif, Political Secretary to the Chief Minister. She extended gratitude to Faizal for choosing Kota Kinabalu as the base and acknowledged The Good Club owner, Ryan Chu, for joining as a key partner. The support from sponsors like Delon, McEden from Thailand, Rehabworks, and Velo Clinic further highlights a collaborative spirit driving this initiative.
On the Court: The Future is Now
Following the formal proceedings, students and teachers got a direct taste of the academy's philosophy. A special clinic and drill session, personally led by Faizal Osman, offered participants an exciting preview of the cutting-edge training approach. This session set an energetic tone for what promises to be a vibrant new chapter for pickleball in Sabah.
With its strategic launch and expert leadership, the Todi Pickleball School is poised to become far more than just a training facility. It stands as a beacon of growth, opportunity, and community, solidifying Sabah's place on the global pickleball map.
