Golden Tate’s Journey to Pickleball: Former NFL wide receiver Golden Tate has found a new passion in pickleball. The Super Bowl champion has become one of the many professional athletes to take up the sport after retiring from football. Tate not only plays competitively but also has his signature paddle with Paddletek, showcasing his commitment to the game.
In November, Tate participated in the Deep Eddy Vodka Celebrity Pickleball Showdown at the Lapiplasty Pickleball World Championships in Dallas. Reflecting on his pickleball journey, Tate shared how he first encountered the sport in 2010 during a dinner at his then-girlfriend’s home in Washington State.
“I remember looking at this small tennis court they had in the backyard and asking them why they had a halfway tennis court,”. After learning it was for pickleball, he gave it a try and thought it was fun but didn’t expect to play again.(Golden Tate )
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Rediscovering the Game in California
Years later, Tate rediscovered pickleball in Southern California after moving to San Diego. He began playing regularly as a way to stay active while avoiding the physical strain of basketball and football.
“This was a way for me to get competitive, have community, and have something to work towards,”. “And now here we are, and it’s the fastest-growing sport in America.”(Golden Tate)
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Tate’s dedication to the game has grown significantly. He has played with pickleball professionals like Connor Garnett and Tyson McGuffin, and he doesn’t hold back on the court.
“I like to overpower my opponents and use my athleticism any way I can,”. “I love speeding it up and getting in hands battles.”(Golden Tate )
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Football Skills on the Pickleball Court
Tate credits his football background for giving him an edge in pickleball. His lateral movement, hand-eye coordination, and ability to track the ball have been key strengths.
“To know exactly where the ball is going to be is something I value, and I think I have an edge on,”. Growing up playing ping pong has also helped him develop strong paddle awareness.(Golden Tate )
Beyond his skills, Tate appreciates pickleball as an outlet for stress and a way to connect with others.
“This is what’s so great about pickleball and sports in general. It gives people an outlet to have after a long day or whatever they’re battling at home,” (Golden Tate ).
For Tate, the sport serves as a mental escape and a chance to decompress, much like football and baseball did during his youth.
Spreading the Joy of Pickleball
Tate has embraced his role as an ambassador for the sport, using his social media platforms to promote pickleball.
“I’m going to be the best version of myself and hopefully do my part in growing the game and bringing people together,” (Golden Tate ).
With his enthusiasm and influence, Tate aims to inspire others to join the pickleball community.
As pickleball continues to grow in popularity, athletes like Tate are helping to elevate its profile and attract new players. For Tate, pickleball is more than just a game—it’s a way to stay competitive, build community, and find joy in the next chapter of his life.
News in Brief: Golden Tate’s Journey to Pickleball
Former NFL star Golden Tate has embraced pickleball, finding it a way to stay active and competitive post-football. He rediscovered the sport in California, blending his athletic skills with a passion for community. As a player and ambassador, Tate promotes pickleball’s growth, highlighting its physical, social, and stress-relief benefits.
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