HomePickleball NewsMaggie Velloso's Inspiring Journey at the Taichung Pickleball Cup

Maggie Velloso’s Inspiring Journey at the Taichung Pickleball Cup

Maggie Velloso’s Inspiring Journey: Maggie Velloso from Guam earned a bronze medal in the women’s singles 19+/4.5 division at the 2024 World Pickleball Championship’s Taichung 2nd Marc Pickleball Cup in Taichung, Taiwan, held on December 26. Competing against top players from Taiwan and Korea, Velloso showcased her skills on an international stage.

Competing Against International Talent

Velloso has been playing pickleball for about two years in Guam. Unsure of her abilities to compete against international players, she faced significant challenges during the tournament. The bronze medal match was especially intense, played to 21 points, unlike her typical local matches, which go to 11 points.

“It was a long battle, and even when I pulled ahead to 20, I couldn’t relax. Every point mattered,” (Maggie Velloso).

In the decisive moments of the match, Velloso served to secure her victory.

“When I finally got the serve back, I knew I had to finish it there,”, celebrating her achievement with pride. “It felt surreal standing on the podium representing Guam alongside players from South Korea and Taiwan.”(Maggie Velloso)

Adapting Strategies and Building Connections

Throughout the tournament, Velloso had to adapt her strategies against unfamiliar opponents.

“I had to constantly adapt my strategy in-game, which made every match exciting and insightful,” (Maggie Velloso).

She also appreciated the opportunity to network with other players and volunteers, forming international friendships along the way.

Reflecting on her experience, Velloso emphasized the importance of mental toughness.

“I discovered that my mental toughness was stronger than I had initially thought, and I was able to push through even in challenging moments,” (Maggie Velloso).

In addition to her singles success, Velloso and her partner Derek Madden performed well in the mixed doubles 19+/5.0 division, winning a round and defeating the eventual silver medalists in the mixed doubles 19+/4.5 division. Despite not advancing to the elimination rounds, she valued the lessons learned throughout the tournament.

Looking Ahead to Future Competitions

“My experience playing in the 2nd Marc Pickleball Cup was truly unforgettable,”.(Maggie Velloso)

Now back in Guam, she is eager to train harder and refine her skills for upcoming tournaments.

“I’ve made a list of things to work on and new skills I want to develop before the next tournament,” (Maggie Velloso),

motivated to continue improving her game.

News in Brief: Maggie Velloso’s Inspiring Journey

Maggie Velloso from Guam earned a bronze medal in the women’s singles 19+/4.5 division at the 2024 World Pickleball Championship’s Taichung 2nd Marc Pickleball Cup in Taiwan on December 26. Competing against international players, she showcased her skills, demonstrating mental toughness and adaptability. Velloso is motivated to train harder for future tournaments, aiming to refine her skills and improve her game.

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