Forging Leaders, Not Just Coaches: PCP Honors New Certified Mentors at the 3rd Eminence Cup

Under the bright lights of the FPF Arena, the 3rd Edition of the Eminence Cup (November 29–30) opened not just as a celebration of high-level competition—but as a defining moment for coaching excellence and personal growth in the sport of pickleball.

The evening ceremony saw five coaches step forward to receive their PCP Coaching Certifications, each representing more than technical mastery — a reflection of integrity, discipline, and the drive to uplift others through the sport.

 • Crystal Zhang – Level 2A

 • Marcus Tan – Level 3A

 • Kok Yoke Kheng – Level 3A

 • Steven Chia – Level 2

 • Hannah Tan – Level 4A

These certifications symbolise a commitment to community, leadership, and self-evolution, hallmarks of the PCP coaching philosophy that redefines what it means to be a coach in modern sport.

Milestones of Legacy and Leadership

A historic milestone was achieved when Crystal Zhang became the first-ever Chinese coach to be awarded a PCP Level 2 certification.

“This certificate represents more than a qualification,” Crystal shared. “It’s a reminder that coaching is about empathy, patience, and purpose. PCP taught me to see every student not just as an athlete, but as a person with their own journey.”

At the same ceremony, Hannah Tan made history as the first person in the world to achieve a Level 4A PCP certification, symbolising mastery not only in technical expertise but in character, leadership, and community building.

“The PCP journey challenged me to question who I am as a coach and as a person,” Hannah reflected. “It pushes you beyond the mechanics of the game — into understanding people, mindset, and growth. This certification isn’t an end; it’s a lifelong pursuit of excellence.”

Beyond Technique — The PCP Advantage

The PCP Certification Programme stands apart in global pickleball education. It goes beyond teaching drills and tactics, focusing on the holistic development of a coach — their communication, emotional intelligence, leadership, and integrity.

Coaches are not only trained to teach but to inspire, equipping them with tools in psychology, character development, and ethical leadership. The programme emphasises continuous self-improvement, a principle echoed by Marcus Tan, now a Level 3A coach:

“What sets PCP apart is that it doesn’t just certify you—it transforms you. It’s a mirror that reflects your strengths and your blind spots. I’ve learned that real coaching begins when you start improving yourself first.”

For Kok Yoke Kheng, who also earned her Level 3A certification, the process was deeply personal:

“PCP helped me find my voice as a mentor. It reminded me that growth happens in the small, consistent moments — the conversations, the encouragement, the ability to listen.”

Steven Chia, awarded Level 2, summed up the journey succinctly:

“PCP’s approach is structured yet deeply human. It teaches you that excellence in sport starts with humility and awareness. Every module challenges you to rise higher, not just as a coach, but as a leader.”

Building a Global Standard

With hundreds of candidates across Asia now pursuing PCP certifications, the programme continues to set a new global benchmark for pickleball education — one rooted in values, vision, and community impact.

As the Eminence Cup unfolds over two days, the achievements of these newly certified coaches stand as living proof that the future of pickleball is not just about players who win matches — but coaches who shape lives.

About PCP

The Pickleball Coaching Programme (PCP) is an internationally recognised coaching framework designed to nurture holistic excellence in sport. PCP certifications emphasise not only technical and tactical expertise but also ethics, communication, leadership, and personal growth. Coaches are trained to bring out the best in others — and in themselves — creating a culture of integrity, inclusion, and lifelong learning.