Jorja Johnson

Historically, pickleball has been a sport for seniors. Now younger players are becoming the face of the game. What do you think should be done to attract more younger players?

I think pickleball needs to be brought into the schools. I gave an exhibition in a high school gym and the students were really interested.

You are a 17-year-old professional. At what age do you think kids should start playing pickleball?

I started playing at 12 because I came from tennis. I think you can start pickleball when you are as young as 4. If pickleball is to become your main sport, it will help to develop your muscle memory.

Do women play a different game from the men?

Yes, most pros will say that women’s doubles is the most entertaining. Women have longer rallies and more chaotic points. Men’s doubles involves a lot of dinking and waiting for the perfect shot. Women have more freedom to speed up.

Is there a minimum age you must be to turn pro?

There is not. There are so many pros now and the level of play has improved, so a player has to be old enough to physically achieve a high skill level.

What about school?

That is less of an issue now because of online school. I am an online student. There is no offseason in pickleball. You travel year-round. You are dedicated to the sport.

What about friends?

Most of my friends are people I’ve met playing pickleball and people on tour.

Do you drill or play, or both?

I drill, play and do fitness workouts. I work out four times a week: two movement days and two strength days. On the strength days I do weightlifting movement workouts that involve hurdles and cones. My workouts are overseen by a fitness instructor. I used to do this for softball and tennis, so it’s not new to me. My brother, JW, does fitness training. I started doing fitness workouts about a year and a half ago, particularly for singles.

How do you handle the pressure of having a mother and a brother who are both outstanding pickleball pros?

Actually, it helps to have them with me to handle the pressure of being on tour. It helps with the outside pressures.

What is your favorite food?

I like a lot of foods. My favorite is birria tacos.

What place would you most like to visit?

Tokyo. I heard it’s a really nice city with good shopping and good food. I like Asian food.

What is your favorite movie?

“The Princess Bride.”

There is a lot of controversy about young people and their cell phone use. What do you think about cell phone use?

It is good in moderation. Cell phones are good tools to stay connected, but I do see the addiction. You need screen time in moderation.

Do you have a pet?

I have a dog named Barry. He is a bichon mix.

Do you have a favorite piece of jewelry?

Yes, everyone in my family wears a soapstone pendant on plain twine.

What historical character do you find most interesting?

Amelia Earhart.

What athlete do you most admire?

Novak Djokovic. He is gluten free and so am I due to allergies. I’m also dairy free. He has dealt with food issues.  •