Cami Gonzalez Stuns Pickleball World: Junior pickleball player Cami Gonzalez of Lowell, Arkansas, made waves by winning the national girls’ doubles 16U title and securing second place in singles at the Junior Professional Pickleball Association Finals. The 16-year-old transitioned from tennis to pickleball only a year ago.
“They are two very completely different sports. A lot of people think just because I played tennis, you can play pickleball. It does help to have the hand-eye coordination, but it’s not everything.” – (Cami Gonzalez)
Rapid Rise in Pickleball
Despite her short time in the sport, Gonzalez achieved major milestones, medaling in two events at the national tournament. This was her first time competing on such a large stage.
“It’s definitely a nerve-racking experience, especially for my first time to be on that big of a stage. But it’s such a cool and unique experience that I know a lot of people don’t get to have. So, I really tried to take advantage of it.” – (Cami Gonzalez)
Her efforts paid off as she earned the national title in girls’ doubles and took second in singles.
“It felt really good to see all the hard work and dedication I’ve put in and to see the fruits of my labor.” – (Cami Gonzalez)
Coach Praises Gonzalez’s Talent
Shannon Hudson, Gonzalez’s coach, highlighted her rapid progress.
“How fast she’s been successful in the sport with only starting a year ago is incredible. I don’t think it’s really heard of anywhere.” – (Shannon Hudson)
Gonzalez was the only player from Arkansas at the tournament, further emphasizing her unique achievement.
“I think Cami’s success in the sport, being from Arkansas, shows the growth of the sport in our area. It also shows how great she is. She’s able to succeed without other people having paved the path for her.” – (Shannon Hudson)
Future Goals
For Gonzalez, this success is just the beginning.
“I mean, there’s nowhere to go but up. So, I’m excited for the next part of my journey.” – (Cami Gonzalez)
Her accomplishments not only spotlight her dedication but also signal the growing popularity of pickleball in Arkansas.
News in Brief: Cami Gonzalez Stuns Pickleball World
Cami Gonzalez, a 16-year-old junior pickleball player from Lowell, Arkansas, claimed the national girls’ doubles 16U title and finished second in singles at the Junior Professional Pickleball Association Finals. Having transitioned from tennis only a year ago, Gonzalez’s rapid rise has amazed fans and her coach, Shannon Hudson, who praised her unique achievement as Arkansas’ sole representative.
Gonzalez described the experience as nerve-racking yet rewarding, showing the results of her hard work. Her success highlights not only her talent but also the growing popularity of pickleball in Arkansas. Gonzalez aims to continue her journey and achieve even greater milestones.
