Pickleball is officially taking root in Bacolod City. Megaworld is expanding the global pickleball trend with four new tournament-standard courts at Northill Courtyard, the newest sports and recreational hub within its 53-hectare Northill Gateway township along the Bacolod-Silay Airport Access Road. Set to open in July, this will be the first dedicated pickleball facility along this rapidly developing corridor.
The timing feels intentional. Just weeks ago, I was drafting a piece about a pickleball event in Australia. Before that, I read a post about a South Korean celebrity I admire talking about playing pickleball. And now, here I was in Bacolod, attending the groundbreaking ceremony for a space designed entirely around this fast-growing paddle sport that blends elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis. It wasn’t coincidence. It was momentum.
What Is Northill Courtyard?
Northill Courtyard is more than a place to play pickleball in Bacolod. It is a community-centered destination built for connection, activity, and lifestyle. Spanning close to 1,200 square meters, the facility will feature four expansive, tournament-ready courts alongside a spacious lounge area designed for post-match relaxation.
Players and visitors can refuel at Northill Café by Quino’s, a concept brought to life by beloved homegrown Bacolod brand Quino’s, founded by husband-and-wife team John and Ann Ledesma. Adding to the convenience, the complex offers direct access to Megaworld‘s Northill Parade, a vibrant retail and dining strip where guests can easily visit popular establishments like McDonald’s, Denny’s, and JT’s Manukan after a game.
Operated by ADA Sports, a collective of private individuals united by their shared passion for the sport, the venue welcomes players of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are a beginner learning the basics or an advanced competitor seeking tournament play, Northill Courtyard is designed to be inclusive, inviting, and inspiring.
Built for Players, Designed for Community
The complex embraces a large-scale open-air layout with a clean, minimalist aesthetic and a relaxed, resort-inspired ambiance. Scenic views of the surrounding mountains provide a calming backdrop to every match, while thoughtful amenities prioritize comfort and safety throughout the grounds.
Visitors will find shaded seating areas and benches strategically placed for rest, along with drinking fountains to keep players hydrated. Safety fencing surrounds each court, and the site is equipped with ample parking spaces and pedestrian-friendly pathways to ensure smooth, convenient access for everyone.
Players can easily join open play sessions or enroll in tailored membership programs, all with the goal of creating a space where Bacolodnons can stay active, meet new people, and enjoy the game together.
Why Pickleball? Why Now?
“Pickleball’s appeal lies in its simplicity, accessibility, and strong sense of community,” says Tin Yusingco-Torre, General Manager for Megaworld Lifestyle Malls, Northill Gateway.
“We are excited to help grow this movement in Bacolod by creating a dedicated space where people can stay active, connect, and enjoy the game. This latest addition further enhances Northill Gateway’s identity as a premier residential and lifestyle enclave, while reinforcing Megaworld’s commitment to developing modern, future-ready townships that elevate everyday living and contribute to Bacolod’s continued growth.”
Her words reflect a broader shift in how we design modern living spaces. Townships are no longer just about homes and offices. They are about experiences and places that bring people together around shared interests. Pickleball, with its low barrier to entry and high social reward, fits that vision perfectly.
A Strategic Location for Growth
Positioned along the Bacolod-Silay Airport Access Road, Northill Gateway is strategically placed to serve both local residents and visitors arriving in Negros Occidental. The addition of a dedicated pickleball facility strengthens the township’s appeal as a lifestyle destination.
For Bacolod, known as the City of Smiles, this development aligns with the community’s values: warmth, connection, and joyful living. It also signals that the city is embracing global wellness trends while creating spaces that feel distinctly local.
What to Expect When Northill Courtyard Opens
When the gates open in July, visitors can anticipate a vibrant launch season featuring grand opening events and introductory clinics for newcomers. The facility will offer flexible booking options for both casual open play and private sessions, alongside community tournaments and social mixers designed to foster friendly competition.
Most importantly, the space will cultivate a welcoming environment for families, friends, and solo players alike. Whether you come to play, to watch, or simply to enjoy a coffee at Northill Café by Quino’s after a match, the experience is designed to feel effortless and uplifting.
Join the Pickleball Movement
Pickleball is more than a sport. It is a way to move, to meet, to belong. And now, Bacolod has a place where that spirit can thrive. Northill Courtyard at Northill Gateway isn’t just adding courts. It is cultivating community.
To stay updated on the facility’s July opening, follow Megaworld Bacolod and ADA Sports on social media for announcements regarding membership details and launch events. Whether you are curious about trying your first game or ready to book a competitive match, the courts are your invitation to play.
Share your thoughts or pickleball questions in the comments below and join a growing community of players right here in Bacolod.
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