Laura Jaget’s Pickleball Dream: Former Valley High School tennis star Laura Jaget will represent the United States in the upcoming pickleball Maccabi Games, also known as the Jewish Olympics, as pickleball debuted in the international competition. The games, set for July 8-22 in Israel, will bring together over 11,000 Jewish athletes worldwide.
From Tennis Champion to Pickleball Contender
Laura Jaget made a name for herself as a dominant force in high school tennis. She led Valley High School’s Viking Rackets to consecutive undefeated seasons from 1981 to 1983, winning multiple MVP awards and a state singles championship in 1984.
Ranked as the top player in Nevada and 54th nationally, she earned a full scholarship to the University of California San Diego (UCSD), where she continued to excel in the sport.
“We were a powerhouse. Junior tennis was very big back in the 70s. And for some reason, all of those girls happened to be zoned for Valley High School. I won three state championships with that team.” – (Laura)
Despite her success, the rigorous training schedule from childhood took a toll.
“We didn’t really have any off days unless it rained. So by the time I was 21, when I graduated, I just felt kind of burned out. And tennis was just always something that I had to do. I played it as a child. That’s what was required. That’s what we did in my family.” – (Laura)
She stepped away from competitive sports for nearly three decades, giving away her tennis equipment and never owning another racket.
Discovering Pickleball and a New Passion
While living in Oregon, Laura stumbled upon pickleball, a sport played on smaller pickleball courts with paddles. Initially playing for recreation, she quickly rediscovered her competitive edge.
“I found pickleball and the surge of excitement and competitiveness and fun was restored. Took 30 years, but here I am.” – (Laura)
Laura now competes at a 5.0 level, a near-proficiency ranking in the sport. In 2024, she attended tryouts for the Maccabi USA pickleball team’s Masters Division (ages 50 and up). To her surprise, she was selected for the more competitive Open Division, which has no age restrictions and includes some of the best players in the sport.
“Being selected to represent the United States in the Maccabi Games is really something that I am more proud of than anything else I’ve done in pickleball. I am proud to represent the United States and I’m proud to represent the Jewish people and my community here in Las Vegas.” – (Laura)
A Historic Moment for Pickleball
The Maccabi Games, first held in 1932 with 390 athletes, have grown into the third-largest multi-sport event in the world, trailing only the Olympics and FIFA. The 2025 edition will feature 42 sports, with pickleball making its first-ever appearance.
Pickleball has surged in popularity in recent years. According to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA), it was the fastest-growing sport in the U.S. for the third consecutive year in 2024.
“The remarkable growth in pickleball participation highlights the sport’s widespread appeal and the enthusiasm it generates across all age groups,” said Alex Kerman, SFIA’s senior director of research and business operations.
“The 2024 State of Pickleball Report showcases this surge in participation and the cross-generational excitement for the sport. As we continue to support this rapid expansion, our priority is to ensure that pickleball remains accessible and enjoyable for everyone, fostering a thriving community of players.” – (Alex Kerman)
Laura believes the sport’s accessibility is a key reason for its rise.
“I think that is the question on everybody’s mind in the tennis world, in all these sports worlds. Why is pickleball so huge? It has a silly name. It’s played on the small court. It’s more accessible for people to play. And then when they see that they can play it easily, they become addicted.” – (Laura)
Family and Friends Rally Behind Her
Laura’s friends and family are thrilled about her selection. Devin Rupper, one of her pickleball partners, recalled her modesty about the accomplishment.
“Laura is really humble and a bit shy of attention. She didn’t tell anyone that she was trying out for the games. I found out weeks after the fact when I randomly asked her how pickle ball was going. She quietly and hesitantly told me that she has been selected to represent the United States at the Maccabi Games in Israel this summer.” – (Devin Rupper)
“I am the opposite of Laura; I will shout her praises from the rooftops with zero sense of decorum. And I did. I whooped and hollered, ‘WHAT? NO WAY! THIS IS INCREDIBLE!!!!’ I then told everyone I know!” – (Devin Rupper)
Cristi Gonzalez, Laura’s cousin and former high school teammate, expressed admiration for her achievement.
“She’s won so many open and national medals. And not only that: SHE’S 58 AND COMPETING AGAINST 18+ YEAR OLDS! AT THE MACCABI GAMES!” – (Cristi Gonzalez)
Laura’s children also support her journey.
“When I heard my mother was invited to represent team USA at the Maccabi Games. We all jumped up in amazement. She surprised us. All of our siblings were together in a room, and she announced the news, and we all got so excited because it is an incredible honor.” – (Aliyah Jaget, Laura’s daughter)
Since athletes must cover their own travel and training expenses, Laura’s children started a GoFundMe to help fund her trip to Israel.
Looking Ahead to the Maccabi Games
As Laura prepares for the Maccabi Games, she hopes to inspire others and contribute to the growth of pickleball on an international stage. The games will take place from July 8-22 in Israel, marking an important milestone for both Laura and the sport.
News in Brief: Laura Jaget’s Pickleball Dream
Former tennis star Laura Jaget will represent the U.S. in pickleball’s debut at the Maccabi Games in Israel from July 8-22. Once a top-ranked high school player, she transitioned to pickleball after a 30-year break from competition. Friends and family have launched a GoFundMe to support her journey.
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