Behind the Scenes with Pro

You played tennis for Notre Dame . What ’ s the most important carryover ? Discipline and structure . I learned to compete under pressure . These bring success in life and in pickleball .

What brought you to tennis in the first place ? I started playing when I was 4 . My sister took clinics and I hit on the wall until they put me in tennis clinics , too . I played every sport , and at 11 or 12 I was all into tennis .

What ’ s your favorite shot in pickleball ? My two-handed backhand . It was my favorite shot in tennis . In pickleball , I hit topspin out of the air and definitely from the kitchen line .

When do you take a time-out ? Mostly when I see three or more points going to the opponent . Or , if I ’ m in a tight game or stuck on a number .

Who has been your mentor in life ? My parents . I look to them for guidance . My Notre Dame coach , Ryan Sachire , pushed me to be better , and world-renowned coach Nick Saviano also played a huge role in my life . In pickleball , pro Johnny Goldberg has helped me find good partners . JW Johnson practiced with me early on before I became a solid player . You remember the people who helped you on the way up .

What is the most important thing a coach ever told you ? That it is not about the outcome . Focus on the individual moment . Focus on doing your best .

What advice would you tell a 10-year-old about pickleball ? Have fun with it . Pickleball is supereasy to pick up . Jump in with your whole family .

What would you do to get more spectators in pickleball ? We are entertainers . Bring personality to the game . Build identities .

If you were to sponsor a charity tournament , what charity would you choose ? Something benefiting animals or underprivileged youth . I would want to give kids supplies to play .

You are interested in motor sports . What do you drive ? When I was younger , I bought a V8 Mustang and I worked on it . Then I bought a motorcycle . Now I drive a Kia Forte that is good on gas mileage .

You are an Eagle Scout . What was your project ? I created flag depositories for Ace Hardware stores so that people had a place to take American flags to be properly retired .

What sport did you most enjoy watching in the Olympics ? Sprinting .

What is your social media strategy ? I want to keep my account professional . I consistently upload serious material and training information .

Olympic stars have become advertising models . Is that coming to pickleball ? We are already seeing it . Anna Leigh Waters is advertising a skin care brand .

What do you look for in a woman ? My girlfriend is someone who listens , is a good communicator , down to earth , calm and composed . I need someone to even out my personality . Synergistic .

What ’ s your favorite candy ? SweeTARTS Ropes .

Where in the world would you like to teach pickleball ? Dubai . I ’ ve never been there , and it looks super-futuristic . •

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