Collin Johns, a name that’s quickly gaining recognition in the world of pickleball, is a professional player known for his strategic gameplay and impressive track record. This article delves into the journey of Collin Johns in the pickleball arena and his contributions to the sport.
Collin Johns and His Pickleball Journey
Collin Johns, currently residing in Austin, Texas, began his pickleball journey in the spring of 2018. His debut at his first major pickleball tournament was at the 2019 US Open, where he made it to the semifinals in Men’s Pro Singles. Over the course of the following year, he quickly established himself as one of the top players in the game in men’s singles and doubles, climbing to the Top 10 in both divisions.
Johns’ regular doubles partner is his younger brother, Ben Johns. Their partnership has been fruitful, yielding 27 professional titles to date, with the most notable titles being back-to-back US Open crowns in 2021 and 2022 and the USAP National Championships in 2022.
The Role of Other Sports in Johns’ Success
Johns attributes his success in pickleball to his background in tennis, table tennis, and baseball, and the tutelage he received from his younger brother, Ben. His favorite shots are his reset block and forehand dink, which he adapted from his previous experiences in other racquet sports. Johns appreciates what he calls “the uniquely unsolved nature of the technique and strategy that is currently evolving in pickleball” and enjoys experimenting with new shots by borrowing elements from other sports.
Johns’ Sponsorship and Contributions to Pickleball
Johns is sponsored by JOOLA and the Professional Pickleball Registry. He serves on the Professional Pickleball Registry Board of Directors and contributes to PPR as a coach developer and columnist. He certifies professionals around the country, and his work has been featured in publications such as Pickleball Magazine and the PPR Symposium. In addition to traveling the U.S. as a pro athlete, Johns is the co-owner and founder of Pickleball 360, an instructional video subscription service.
Johns’ Life Off the Court
Off-court, Johns enjoys reading, writing, chess, and table tennis. Prior to pickleball, he competed at the professional level in tennis for five years, attaining a career-high ATP ranking of #978 in singles and #939 in doubles. Following professional tennis, he coached junior high performance and collegiate tennis for Florida Gulf Coast University. As the team’s assistant coach, Johns helped guide the Eagles to the 2019 Atlantic Sun Conference division title.
Conclusion
Collin Johns’ journey in the world of pickleball is a testament to his dedication, skill, and love for the sport. His contributions to the sport, both as a player and a coach, continue to shape the future of pickleball. Whether you’re an aspiring player or a fan of the sport, Collin Johns’ story serves as an inspiration to all.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When did Collin Johns start playing pickleball?
A: Collin Johns began playing pickleball in the spring of 2018.
Q: What are some of Collin Johns’ notable achievements in pickleball?
A: Collin Johns has numerous achievements in pickleball, including making it to the Top 10 in both men’s singles and doubles, winning back-to-back US Open crowns in 2021 and 2022, and winning the USAP National Championships in 2022.
Q: Who is Collin Johns’ regular doubles partner?
A: Collin Johns’ regular doubles partner is his younger brother, Ben Johns.
Q: What is Collin Johns’ favorite shot in pickleball?
A: Collin Johns’ favorite shots are his reset block and forehand dink.
Q: What are some of Collin Johns’ contributions to the pickleball community?
A: Collin Johns serves on the Professional Pickleball Registry Board of Directors and contributes as a coach developer and columnist. He also certifies professionals around the country and is the co-owner and founder of Pickleball 360, an instructional video subscription service.
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