More Than a Game: Coach McCoy and Jaco’s Pickleball Open Plays Fuel Davao’s Growing Community

In the heart of Davao City, a movement is growing—one paddle at a time.

What started as casual open plays led by Coach McCoy and Coach Jaco, two of Davao’s most passionate pickleball advocates, has now evolved into something much bigger: a thriving, inclusive, and tight-knit community that welcomes everyone, from first-time players to seasoned athletes.

A Safe, Supportive Space for All

Every week, locals gather at the courts—especially at the Matina Town Square Pavilion, the city’s largest covered pickleball venue—for friendly matches, shared laughter, and skill-building sessions. For many, these sessions are more than just a workout. They’re an outlet for stress, a chance to connect, and a doorway to better health and friendship.

“Our goal is to make pickleball accessible to everyone,” says Coach McCoy, a certified instructor and passionate motivator on the court. “You don’t need to be an athlete to start—you just need the heart to try.”

Coach Jaco adds,

“What we’re building isn’t just a sports group—it’s a family. We’ve seen friendships form, confidence grow, and even families start playing together.”

Powered by Passion and Purpose

Both Philippine Selkirk Advocates, Coach McCoy and Coach Jaco bring more than just coaching expertise. They bring energy, structure, and heart. Their sessions are known for being fun, inclusive, and supportive—especially for newcomers. With gear available to borrow and experienced players always willing to guide beginners, there’s no excuse not to pick up a paddle.

Their focus on community building is what truly sets them apart. From organizing beginner clinics and doubles mixers to supporting local causes through pickleball, their leadership is shaping Davao’s pickleball identity into one rooted in camaraderie, growth, and giving back.

Growing Momentum

Attendance at their open plays has grown steadily, with new faces joining every week. The court is now a melting pot of ages and backgrounds—students, professionals, retirees, and even tourists discovering the joy of pickleball in Davao.

And it doesn’t stop there.

With more clinics, inter-barangay exhibitions, and potential school outreach programs in the pipeline, Coach McCoy and Coach Jaco are helping make pickleball one of Davao’s fastest-growing recreational sports.

Join the Movement

If you’ve ever been curious about pickleball, there’s no better time to start. Whether you want to get fit, make friends, or just have fun, you’ll find what you’re looking for on the courts with Coach McCoy and Coach Jaco.

Follow them on social media for updates on open play schedules, beginner sessions, and upcoming community events.

From humble beginnings to a full-blown movement, the Davao pickleball community is just getting started. And with leaders like Coach McCoy and Coach Jaco at the helm, the future looks bright, fun, and fiercely supportive.