On Wednesday, February 14, Villena will host a landmark gathering that showcases pickleball, a sport gaining rapid popularity in the United States and Canada and now growing as an inclusive activity in Spain. Paseo Chapí de Villena will become a dynamic hub where disabled social organizations from the Valencian Community, alongside local schoolchildren, will try out multiple courts set up specifically for this event. The sport blends elements from table tennis, paddle tennis, tennis, and badminton, creating an accessible, fast-paced relay of rallies that appeals to players of diverse ages and abilities. This day highlights how pickleball can serve as a bridge between communities and encourage participation from those who face barriers to traditional racket sports. (Citation: municipal organizers and event coordinators.)
Across the promotional program, a master class will be offered by seasoned players and coaches who dedicate their time to teaching the sport and sharing tips for ongoing play. The clinic will be guided by members of the Elche Pickleball Club, who will introduce the practice before players take to the active courts. The emphasis is on enjoyment, safety, and active engagement for people of all skill levels, ensuring that newcomers feel welcome while veterans can refine techniques. (Citation: Elche Pickleball Club representatives.)
The event, coordinated with the Sports Council Member Maite Gandía, signals the kickoff of the Mediterranean Open Villena tournament, scheduled for March at the Ferrero Academy tennis facilities. This tournament will bring competitive attention to the region and offer opportunities for local athletes to compete in a spirited, community-minded environment. (Citation: municipal sports office.)
Cocemfe Alicante and AMIF president Antonio Ruecas, together with technical and sports managers who specialize in social integration and inclusive events, will participate in the day. Their involvement underscores a shared commitment to weaving sport into social life for everyone, including organizations that represent people with disabilities. The aim is to strengthen connections between sport and social inclusion, transforming Villena into a model for inclusive athletic events across the region. (Citation: COCEMFE Alicante, AMIF.)
The event will feature prominent figures from the local and national sports scene. Attendees will include the Mayor of Sports and the city’s mayor, Fulgencio Cerdán, along with Raúl Reina, the Sports Director at Miguel Hernández University, and Antonio Parto, director of Sports Without Adjectives. Additional attendees include Antonio Ruecas, president of COCEMFE Alicante and AMIF; Celia Maestre, coach for FEDDI Valencia; Jorge Peleteiro, national Paralympic football coach; Ramón Simón, president of the Spanish Boccia Team and ADA president; and Raúl González, director of INCLUSPORT and member of the Spanish Boccia Team. Their presence highlights the collaboration between education, disability sport organizations, and local government to promote active living and inclusive access to sport. (Citation: event program and participant list.)