Dylan Frazier Discusses His Journey: In Episode 5 of the Behind the Paddle pickleball podcast, professional player Dylan Frazier shared insights into his journey in the sport, his college experience, and his future in pickleball. Frazier discussed how the sport has grown, his plans for staying involved in pickleball beyond his playing career, and the potential for the sport to become a varsity offering at colleges.
Transitioning from Full-Time Student to Pro Player
Frazier, who attends the University of Missouri, began his collegiate journey studying accounting, with pickleball as a side hobby. However, as the sport gained momentum and tours began offering contracts, Frazier switched his focus to become a full-time pickleball player. “At that time, it made more sense financially to be playing on the tours,” he said.
By his sophomore year, Frazier was traveling about 32 weeks per year to compete. The busy travel schedule made attending in-person classes difficult, so Frazier transitioned to online learning, which allowed him to balance his academic and athletic commitments. He currently takes one class per semester, with plans to finish his degree in business administration.
Exploring the Future of Pickleball
Frazier believes that pickleball has significant potential to grow within colleges, with the possibility of it becoming a varsity sport in the future. He also sees opportunities for players to get involved in other areas of the sport, such as hosting clinics or engaging in podcasting. Frazier is focused on extending his playing career but is also exploring ways to stay involved in the sport beyond playing, possibly by using his business degree.
“Pickleball is in its growth phase right now, and there are so many different ways to get involved,” he said. “Whether it’s through clinics, camps, or even working with paddle manufacturers, there are lots of possibilities for someone in my position.”
The Drive to Compete
Frazier also shared his love for competing against the best in the sport. He named Federico Rico as one of his favorite players to face in singles, citing the high level of competition.
As Frazier looks to the future, he remains optimistic about his role in the sport, both as a player and as a business professional. His career path illustrates the unique balance between athletics and education in the world of professional pickleball.
News in Brief: Dylan Frazier Discusses His Journey
In Episode 5 of the Behind the Paddle podcast, Dylan Frazier discussed his transition from a full-time student at the University of Missouri to a professional pickleball player.
He shared insights into the sport’s growth, potential college varsity inclusion, and his plans for staying involved after his playing career. Frazier also emphasized his competitive drive and future business opportunities
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