An Interview with Anna Bright: Insights from a Pro Pickleball Player
From College Tennis to Pro Pickleball: A Journey of Passion and Dedication
In this engaging interview, Aaron Reznik, The Pickleball Clinic Podcast, sat down with Anna Bright, a dynamic and inspiring figure in the world of pickleball. From her early days as a college tennis player at UC Berkeley to her remarkable achievements on the PPA tour, Anna shares her journey, challenges, and aspirations. At just 24 years old, Anna has already made significant strides in the sport, and her story is one of determination and passion.
Introduction
Anna Bright is a name that resonates with pickleball enthusiasts. Hailing from Boca Raton, Florida, Anna's journey from college tennis to becoming one of the top players on the PPA tour is nothing short of inspiring. Known for her energy and strategic prowess on the court, Anna has quickly risen to prominence in the sport. In this interview, we delve into her transition from tennis to pickleball, her role on the court, and her vision for the future.
0:00 Intro
1. 0:26 - From Account Manager to Pro Pickleball Player: How Did the Transition Happen? "You're 24 years old, starting your career as a pro athlete, and you were an account manager for DUPR before going full-time pro. Can you describe the moment you realized you were moving on from working in a business to going full-time into pro pickleball?" Anna: "My first job was actually as a project manager at a small fintech company. I had a breakout tournament, and Steven and Jill Bravman recruited me to work for DUPR. It allowed me to play pickleball and participate in tournaments. When I was managing a big tournament in Newport Beach, I realized the trajectory was only going to demand more from me, so I chose to pursue pickleball full-time. I'm happy with my decision." 2. 2:04 - Leading on the Court: Natural Evolution or Intentional Effort? "One thing that's always fascinated me about your game is how you lead in terms of energy and poise on the court. Is that something that's naturally evolved over time, or is it a serious effort on your part?" Anna: "It's been natural for me. I've always been a natural competitor and a smart player, starting with tennis tournaments at six. Pickleball suits me well because it relies on anticipation, hand speed, decision-making, and consistency, which are my strengths." 3. 3:43 - The Role of Drilling in Your Training "I heard that when you started playing pro, you had never drilled. Do you think if you had drilled earlier, you might have been a better player today?" Anna: "I don't think so. Drilling helps once you hit plateaus. I was naturally talented and had great players to play with, so obsessively playing recreationally was the best for me initially. Drilling started when I felt plateaus, and it depends on your situation." 4. 4:48 - Playing Mixed Doubles with Your Significant Other "You're one of the few pro players who plays mixed doubles with your significant other. Was that a pro pickleball business decision or a relationship decision?" Anna: "It was mostly a relationship decision. I got good earlier than James, and while we tried playing with others, playing against each other affected our relationship negatively. Playing together felt right, and his improvement made it a win-win." 5. 6:28 - Advice for Couples Playing Together "To all the couples out there that play together, do you have any pro tips on keeping the relationship happy and the doubles team successful?" Anna: "It's important to both be very good. If one is much better, it can cause frustration. At our level, there's an understanding of the right decisions, so there's less room for frustration. Be nice to each other and understand that the better you both are, the easier it is." 6. 7:44 - Visualizing Your Future Career "When you visualize your future career, what do you want it to look like in 10 years?" Anna: "I don't know how long I'll be playing pro pickleball at this intensity. I see myself possibly being a GM of a Major League Pickleball team or getting into coaching and building an academy. I love coaching and think I'd excel in a GM role." 7. 9:02 - Making Career Decisions for Young People "There are many young people trying to figure out their careers. Can you talk about how they can decide what to do with their lives and what factors are important in making that decision?" Anna: "Everyone says follow your dreams, but it's also okay to have a job that funds your dreams. For pickleball, find a job in the industry that allows you to play tournaments. It's important to dip your toes in the water and see if it's for you, especially as the game gets harder to break into." 8. 10:53 - Why Do You Love Pickleball? "Why do you love pickleball?" Anna: "I love it because it's so fun and it gives an avenue to compete. After tennis, I felt a chapter was ending, but pickleball reignited my passion for competition. It's a sport that allows adults to compete at a high level, and that's why so many people love it."
No comments:
Post a Comment