CEBUANO pickleball enthusiasts have launched a platform that provides a standardized local ranking system for better classification of players during tournaments. The initiative, called PickleRank Philippines (PickleRank PH), is designed to offer a localized player rating system while streamlining tournament management.
Father-Daughter Team Behind the Platform
PickleRank PH was created by the father-and-daughter tandem of Howard and Althea Lazarte. Howard Lazarte noted that one of the key challenges tournament organizers face is the absence of a reliable ranking system to objectively determine where players should compete. The platform assigns each player two separate ratings: a personal rating and a matchmaking rating. Tournament performances are recorded independently, preventing players from intentionally lowering their overall ratings to qualify for lower divisions in future competitions.
Inspired by Universal Rating System
Lazarte explained that the system is inspired by the dynamic universal pickleball rating (DUPR). This ensures that ratings reflect actual performance rather than strategic manipulation. Beyond player ratings, PickleRank PH offers tournament management services, including online registration, player bracketing, payment processing, live updates, court bookings, and other community-driven features.
Reducing Disputes in Local Competitions
Tournament organizer Allan Borres Delantar believes the ranking system could significantly reduce disputes that have become commonplace in local competitions. According to Delantar, having an objective measure of skill levels will help ensure fair play and smoother tournament operations. The platform aims to foster a more organized and transparent pickleball community in Cebu and potentially across the Philippines.
