In a sport traditionally dominated by older players, a new wave of talent is making its mark. At just 10 years old, Desert Ridge resident JZ Holmes is turning heads and smashing expectations, proving that age is just a number when it comes to skill and passion for the game. “I have a lot of friends over the age of 70 now!” JZ shares.
Like many people, JZ first encountered pickleball while playing casually at a friend’s house. Intrigued by the fast-paced rallies and easy-to-learn rules, he picked up a paddle and gave it a try. Little did anyone know that this would be the start of something special.
With a background in competitive basketball, JZ’s hand-eye coordination, quick reflexes, and strategic mindset were far beyond what you’d expect from someone his age. What started as a fun hobby soon turned into a passion, with weekends and mornings before school spent on the court, honing skills, and learning from older, more experienced players.
JZ’s pickleball coach knows it’s rare to see someone so young who is not only talented but deeply committed. “JZ is a joy to work with as he is coachable and determined to improve. Winning and learning is in his eyes,” says John Solema, Head Coach at The Pickleball Space.
Between practicing with his Junior Club team Monster Athlete and competing in tournaments on the weekends, JZ has embraced every opportunity to improve his game. This year, he became sponsored by CRUSH, a leading pickleball gear and apparel company and continues to play on two competitive basketball teams. Most recently he and his partner placed 4th at the National Junior Pickleball Tournament and his basketball team won the Jr. Suns Championship at the Footprint Center.
As with any young athlete, finding the balance between school and sports is crucial. Homework gets done ahead of practice, and weekends are carefully structured to allow time for pickleball tournaments and basketball games without compromising schoolwork and a social life.
As the sport continues to grow in popularity, JZ hopes to keep climbing the ranks and one day compete at the professional level. For now, though, he’s focused on enjoying every moment on the court, learning from each game, and proving that even at a young age, anything is possible in pickleball.