College Athlete Pickleball Journey: Christian Alshon balanced college exams and pro pickleball dreams during a chaotic week that changed his life. With an exam on Monday and a tournament ahead, the University of Chicago student found himself torn between studies and the sport he loved. That week tested his limits in class and on court.
Academic Struggles and Late-Night Practice
Alshon had an important test in International Monetary Systems. It was set for 4:30 p.m. on a Monday and was worth 50% of his final grade.
“There were 13 lectures—I went over nine of them. I kind of just skimmed through the last three.” – (Christian Alshon)
He left the test early and didn’t answer enough questions to pass.
“I actually didn’t answer enough questions to pass. Also left 30 minutes early.” – (Christian Alshon)
Fortunately, a replacement exam was available. Though he feared failing his classes, he realized he would be okay. That same night, he returned to the court.
“It was 10:30 p.m., and I was playing with my boy Jerry. We just did a lot of dinking games.” – (Christian Alshon)
Minnesota Tournament and Weather Worries
Alshon had plans to travel to Minnesota for the PPA National Indoors. He was excited to team up with Rafa Hewitt for doubles play.
“I ended up deciding to drive to Minneapolis that day instead of waiting until Wednesday—just so I could beat the storm.” – (Christian Alshon)
It was a six-hour trip, and though he couldn’t train that day, he felt thankful just to play in the event. “That place felt so confining at the time. It felt amazing to leave,” he said about Hyde Park.
First Matches and Tough Opponents
His tournament matches began quickly.
“Survivors Singles Day—time was 11:12. Set was due at 11:15.” – (Christian Alshon)
In round one, he faced Wyatt Harem and lost the match.
“He was up 3–0 in the first, started off strong.” – (Christian Alshon)
He won his next game but called it “a bad matchup, some would say.” Next up was a big match against James Ignatowich.
“Unfortunately, that was probably the most frustrated I’d ever been after a loss.” – (Christian Alshon)
Doubles Play and Momentum
In doubles, Alshon and Hewitt placed fifth.
“We lost in the second round to Dylan and J-Dub.” – (Christian Alshon)
They bounced back, winning several matches in a row.
“We won, I think, five in a row, beating some great teams. It was a battle. We played well together.” – (Christian Alshon)
Despite the ups and downs, the tournament left Alshon feeling positive.
“I could tell it was a good start to the pickleball career that was ahead of me.” – (Christian Alshon)
The Meaning Behind the Mess
Alshon’s story shows how tough it can be to chase a dream while juggling college life. The stress, failure, and travel all played a part in shaping his journey.
“So if you’re wondering what it’s like to juggle college and chasing a dream in pickleball—just know it’s messy, uncertain, and full of setbacks—but if you love the game enough, you’ll find a way to keep showing up, on and off the court.” – (Alshon)
News in Brief: College Athlete Pickleball Journey
Christian Alshon, a college student, shared how he nearly failed a major exam while preparing for a pro pickleball tournament. Despite setbacks, he competed at the PPA National Indoors in Minnesota, showing strong results in doubles and pushing forward in his sports journey.
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