Virginia State Pickleball Championship Winner: Roanoke native Pierce Rakes will compete on the world stage later this year after winning the Virginia state pickleball championship in Richmond. Rakes, who only started playing in January, earned his spot at the world competition in Dallas, where he will face some of the best pickleball players.
From Beginner to State Champion
Pierce Rakes was introduced to pickleball by his father just months ago. What began as a family activity quickly turned into something more serious.
“We went out and played the other day, and it’s just fun that we can. We started out playing this together, both of us not knowing anything, and it’s been exciting to see his support and my mom’s support of moving on to the national and world level,” Rakes said.
At first, the game did not come easily.
“It started out pretty rough. Like anybody can imagine, picking up any kind of new sport or hobby, it starts out where you don’t even know the rules,” he said. “It took probably a month for me and my dad to know the actual rules of the game.”
A Sport for Everyone
Despite the challenges, Pierce Rakes believes pickleball is easy for anyone to enjoy.
“I think it’s a sport that, no matter your skill level, starting, you’ll be able to participate in and grow exponentially as you play,” Rakes said. “So I think it’s one that’s super fun if you’ve got a lot of sports experience or not, to just give it a try.”
Lessons Learned on the Court
In the final match of the state championship, Rakes was behind on the scoreboard. Instead of giving up, he leaned on his faith and stayed focused.
“Through that was just a huge learning experience for myself of, like, you need to stay centered, stay on Christ first and foremost, but also just allow yourself to stay calm no matter the situation,” he said.
That calm approach helped him come back and win the championship. Now, he hopes those lessons will carry him to victory in Dallas.
Looking Ahead
Pierce Rakes’ story shows how quickly dedication can lead to success. His journey from learning the rules to winning a state title in just months is an inspiration to other new players. As he prepares to compete in Dallas, he carries both his family’s support and the lessons learned on the court.
News in Brief: Virginia State Pickleball Championship Winner
Roanoke native Pierce Rakes, who began playing pickleball with his father in January, won the Virginia state championship in Richmond. His victory qualified him for the world competition in Dallas later this year. Rakes says the sport is fun and easy to learn and hopes his faith and focus guide him to success.