On June 15, 2025, the “Connect – Reach Further” Pickleball Tournament officially opened at the Pickzone court complex (Nguyen Xien, Hanoi), marking a prominent sporting activity in the series of events celebrating the 10th anniversary of the National Economics University (NEU) Alumni and Learners Network.

The “Connect – Reach Further” Pickleball Tournament celebrates the 10th anniversary of the NEU Alumni and Learners Network

Attending the event were Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Duc Tho, Secretary of the Party Committee, Chair of the University Council, and Chair of the Executive Board of the Alumni and Learners Network; Dr. Nguyen Huu Dong, Chair of the NEU Trade Union; MSc. Nguyen Hoang Ha, Head of the Department of Political Affairs and Student Management; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Do Anh Duc, Director of the Center for Business English; Dr. Tran Ngoc Thin, Director of the Center for Services and Training Support and Chair of the NEU Pickleball Club; along with many faculty members and 128 athletes who are NEU alumni and learners competing in the tournament.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Duc Tho presents the Decision establishing the Liaison Committee of the NEU Pickleball Club

Amid the lively atmosphere of the pickleball tournament, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Duc Tho shared: “Sports activities not only improve physical fitness but also play a role in forging strong connections and generating enthusiasm and energy throughout the University’s Alumni and Learners Network.”

Also as part of the event, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bui Duc Tho presented the Decision establishing the Liaison Committee of the NEU Alumni and Learners Pickleball Club, an important milestone contributing to the growth of sports participation within the NEU community.

The 2025 “Connect – Reach Further” Pickleball Tournament, celebrating the 10th anniversary of the NEU Alumni and Learners Network, was particularly engaging and creative, with interesting names such as “Veteran Pairs” and “Young Pairs” adding to its appeal and helping attract large numbers of NEU alumni and learners across generations.

At the tournament, exemplary groups such as Cohort 39 and Cohort 46 were honored and awarded the “Connection and Outreach” Cup in recognition of their pioneering role in building and expanding pickleball participation within the NEU community.

The tournament’s success would not have been possible without the valuable support of sponsoring organizations and individuals—alumni and learners who remain committed to their alma mater in a spirit of sharing and responsibility. Their financial and in-kind contributions helped create a lively, professional tournament imbued with a strong sense of humanity.

The organizing committee acknowledges the contributions of groups and individuals sponsoring the tournament

The opening ceremony concluded with the presentation of commemorative medals to 128 athletes as a symbol of their enthusiasm and dedication. Immediately afterward, the athletes began lively matches in an atmosphere of solidarity, fair-play, and excitement. One particularly moving highlight of the tournament was the moment an athlete in Cohort 39’s “Veteran Pairs” duo claimed the championship with an outstanding performance despite persistent cramps from the semifinal through the final. The sight drew enthusiastic cheers from spectators and became a vivid testament to the spirit of never giving up and the determination to push beyond one’s limits.

The “Connect – Reach Further” Pickleball Tournament concluded in a joyful and enthusiastic atmosphere, leaving fond memories of a lively sporting event while also serving as a bridge that strengthens bonds among generations of NEU students and learners.

Some images from the tournament:

Article and photos: Department of Political Affairs and Student Management and Department of Communications

This is an automated translation. If you notice any errors, please contact the Department of Communications, National Economics University at phongtruyenthong@neu.edu.vn.