Have you ever thought about how different life could be if a different path had been chosen?
Consider the possibilities: attending another college, switching majors, joining a different fraternity or sorority, or relocating to a new city. These choices can shape our futures in unexpected ways.
In a recent exploration of alternate career paths, several professional pickleball players reflected on their lives if they hadn’t chosen this unique sport.
Mary Brascia shared that with her film degree from Biola University, she would likely be pursuing a career in Los Angeles, possibly working on a reality TV show.
Tyra Black, known as Hurricane, envisioned herself as a veterinarian, caring for animals and making a difference in their lives.
Hunter Johnson expressed a genuine passion for golf, suggesting that in another life, he might have competed on the PGA Tour alongside top players like World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler.
Anna Leigh Waters noted, “I’d probably be playing soccer in college,” indicating a strong connection to her athletic roots.
Jade Kawamoto dreamed of being a marine biologist, exploring the wonders of the ocean and its ecosystems.
JW Johnson humorously remarked, “I’d love to be in the NBA if I was tall enough,” highlighting his aspirations in basketball.
Lauren Stratman envisioned herself as a stay-at-home mom, focusing on family and home life.
Lastly, Jay Devilliers shared his interest in sports journalism or commentating, emphasizing his love for the stats behind games.
Parris Todd reflected on her creative side, saying, “I would be in the clothing and fashion space. I’d design or start a clothing company.”
These insights reveal not only the diverse interests of these athletes but also the various paths they could have taken, illustrating the rich tapestry of choices that shape our lives.
Anna Bright envisioned herself working as a project manager at a tech company, applying her skills in a fast-paced environment.
Dylan Frazier noted that he would have pursued accounting, as that was his field of study before turning pro.
Ben Johns would leverage his engineering degree, saying he’d enjoy working in material science engineering because of his passion for the subject.
Rachel Rohrabacher, who earned a master’s degree in social work with a focus on counseling and therapy, expressed that she would have become a sports mental health counselor, helping athletes navigate their mental wellness.
Vivienne David shared her love for baking, mentioning that before pickleball, she considered opening a bakery or working in one, where she could indulge her passion for homemade bread, pastries, and sweet treats.
Salome Devidze revealed her fascination with cars, saying she would be involved in the automotive industry, possibly building RVs or restoring classic cars.
In a recent feature by Pickleball.com, several professionals in Atlanta shared their insights on alternative career paths they might have pursued if the call of professional pickleball hadn’t beckoned. From exploring opportunities in tech to diving into creative fields, their stories highlight the diverse potential journeys that could have unfolded. Each perspective offers a glimpse into the impact of choices made and the paths not taken, underscoring the unpredictable nature of life and career.
While these athletes recognize the diverse professions they could have pursued, they all agree on one thing: the joy of hitting the court with their peers is truly a blessing, making their journey in pickleball all the more rewarding.
