Yolanda “Yoyo” Monroe and her partner clinched the coveted gold medal at the prestigious Madtown Pickleball Open this past Friday, showcasing exceptional teamwork and finesse on the court.
Handball Pro to Pickleball
“I love it. I love being here, these courts are absolutely amazing, I love meeting people and I mean I just absolutely love this game,” Yolanda shared enthusiastically. Her sporting journey began on a different court altogether, representing Team USA in professional handball for 38 years. she reflected on her switch to pickleball, initially seeking a fun and active outlet. “I actually got into it for recreational purposes but then the competitiveness in me comes out,” Yolanda added with a smile.
“I used to play professional hand ball for team USA for like 38 years, and then when you reach the peak of your sport and you can go no higher then its time for change.” -( Yolanda “Yoyo” Monroe )
From Coast to Coast
With pickleball, Yolanda has traversed eight countries and played in 48 states, driven by her goal to conquer all 50 states, including her recent participation in the Madtown Pickleball Open in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. “I surfed. I surf on pickleball brackets and stuff and when they come up and I say ‘oh I’d like to be at that tournament’ and it doesn’t matter to me because I just really like meeting people and going different places to play,” she explained of her tournament discovery process.
She cherishes how pickleball, once favored more by older generations, has ignited interest across all age groups. “You can teach the grandchildren, the children, the parents, and then the parents of them. So this sport is actually really nice because it’s community, I love the community, it’s a diversified sport and anybody can play it and anybody can be taught,” Yolanda remarked passionately.
With just Montana and North Dakota left on her checklist, Yolanda plans to serve aces and achieve her goal this summer, embodying the spirit of adventure and camaraderie that defines her pickleball journey.
News in Brief: Yolanda “Yoyo” Monroe’s Pickleball Journey Led To Gold
Yolanda Monroe, a retired professional athlete, embraced pickleball six years ago, finding joy in its community and competition after a storied career in Team USA handball. Traveling across eight countries and 48 states, Yolanda aims to conquer all 50, driven by her passion for meeting people and playing in diverse locales. She values pickleball’s inclusivity and community spirit, teaching and inspiring players of all ages.
ALSO READ: Kelly Strobel’s Pickleball Journey from Amateur to Pro at 54
