WITH pickleball’s popularity surging across Saipan, the Saipan Ultimate Pickleball Hub or SUP Hub announced on Saturday its biggest project yet — a dedicated indoor facility featuring four courts that will officially open for memberships on Oct. 1 in Tanapag.
Gail Manalang, a committee member who helped establish SUP Hub, confirmed the launch of the new venue and its ambitious goals. She said the need for indoor courts became clear as outdoor venues — such as American Memorial Park and Capital Hill — filled up with players almost nightly.
“It feels like there’s a tournament every single night at AMP,” Manalang said, adding that the indoor facility will give players a chance to play without worrying about rain, sun, or heat.
Facility and membership details
The new courts are located inside a converted warehouse in Tanapag, across from iMart. Membership costs $20 per month and allows access to open play between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Members can join games as long as a court is available, but they also have the option to make reservations during those hours.
From 7 p.m. to midnight, the facility shifts to reservation-only play at $8 per hour. Members can book one court for a minimum of one hour and a maximum of two hours to give others an opportunity to play.
Although primarily a private facility, SUP Hub plans to partner with schools for student training and eventually introduce one-on-one coaching sessions. The aim, Manalang explained, is to provide structured opportunities for players to improve without the pressure of competing against higher-level athletes.
International competition
Beyond recreational play, SUP Hub’s long-term vision is to bring international talent to Saipan and develop league play. Sponsors are already lined up to assist players with training, jerseys, and other needs as they prepare to compete in tournaments both locally and abroad.
Manalang said the goal is to represent Saipan and SUP Hub in regional competitions, including those in Japan and across Asia.
The demand for pickleball on Saipan continues to grow. According to Manalang, there are already numerous active groups on island, including about 150 players at American Memorial Park, the Marianas High School Pickleball Club, and other groups in Koblerville, Capital Hill, and Hopwood.
“We want the community to be involved,” she said. “This facility is another option for players, especially when the outdoor courts are full.”
SUP Hub’s opening event on Saturday served as an open house to showcase the courts, allow visitors to try the game, and explain membership rules and costs.
Saipan Ultimate Pickleball Hub committee members Karl Kwan, John Kwan, Gary Cheung, Gail Manalang, and Mike Manalang pose for a group photo during an open house in Tanapag on Saturday.
Indoor pickleball courts will soon open in Tanapag.
