Facolos Returns as Official Paddle Partner for Trailblazers Program Season 2 

The UPA Asia Trailblazers Program is excited to welcome back Facolos as an official Paddle Partner for Season 2, renewing their commitment to developing the region’s next generation of professional talent. 

The homegrown Asian brand continues to demonstrate their dedication to growing the sport throughout the region. Through this partnership, players will be equipped with Facolos paddles as they work toward becoming stars within the region and around the globe. 

“We’re truly honored to be part of the Trailblazers Program for a second time. This partnership with UPA reflects our shared belief in the power of developing future champions – discovering, nurturing, and empowering young talent to build the foundation for sustainable growth of pickleball in Asia and beyond. Facolos is proud to contribute to this meaningful mission, and we look forward to continuing our journey with UPA in creating more opportunities for the next generation of athletes.” Jessica Vo, Co-Founder & Vice President, Facolos Pickleball. 

Headquartered in Vietnam with a vision to blend sporting excellence and style, Facolos represents the rising power of Asian brands in the global pickleball marketplace. Standing at the forefront of expanding pickleball across the region, Facolos brings cutting-edge paddle design that enhances gameplay and presence on court. 

Class of 2025 Trailblazer Yufei Long has proven the impact of the program and Facolos’ support. Since returning from her training and competition stint in the USA as part of Season 1, Long has claimed four PPA Tour Asia gold medals and risen to #1 in the Women’s Singles Asia rankings. 

Season 2 of the UPA Asia Trailblazers Program follows on from a successful first edition in 2025. Shortlisted candidates will join the Pre-selection Training Camp in December at Infinity Academy in Ho Chi Minh City, working with head coach Collin Johns. The Class of 2026 will be announced in March, with top Trailblazers earning a 2-year UPA Asia Pro Contract following a fully-funded, six-week immersion in the USA.