Junior Pickleball Star Jack Loughridge Shines at Inaugural Agassi Open Play Day
Junior PPA standout and JOOLA athlete Jack Loughridge marked a day to remember as he showcased his passion for the sport during the inaugural “Agassi Open Play Day” at Life Time Green Valley in Henderson, NV. The 11-year-old prodigy seized the opportunity not only to participate in nationwide festivities but also to mingle with several sports icons, including tennis legend Andre Agassi.
A Day of Celebration and Connection
In honor of National Pickleball Month, Life Time facilities across the nation coordinated a simultaneous open play event on their 775 pickleball courts. The celebration served as a platform to bring together enthusiasts and professionals alike, fostering community spirit and encouraging participation in the fast-growing sport.
At the center of the event was Andre Agassi, who chairs the Life Time Racquet Sports Board. Agassi, known for his illustrious tennis career, was active on the court throughout the day. His presence and enthusiastic involvement elevated the atmosphere, drawing attention from both participants and onlookers.
Inspiring Moments on the Court
For young Jack Loughridge, the highlight was the chance to play alongside his idol. Loughridge shared his excitement on Instagram, writing,
“Got to play and hang out with Mr. Andre Agassi – he’s not only an accomplished athlete, but very generous and super funny too. Always amazed at the connections made through this game with a funny name. Pickle on!”
This candid remark encapsulated the spirit of the day—where fun, athleticism, and the power of shared experiences took center stage.
Star-Studded Participation
The event also featured a variety of high-profile figures from the sports and entertainment worlds. Among them were:
- Bahram Akradi: Founder and CEO of Life Time, whose vision for integrating sports and community engagement was evident throughout the event.
- Ryan Sherry: UPA Tour pro who participated in the open play session, highlighting the crossover between professional tennis and pickleball.
- James Valentine: Guitarist and vocalist for Maroon 5, adding a lively musical touch to the celebration.
Another notable moment came when Ryan Sherry teamed up with Jaden Agassi, Andre’s son and a former USC pitcher. Jaden’s impressive athletic background includes pitching for Team Germany in the World Baseball Classic Qualifiers earlier this year. Playing doubles with Sherry, Jaden exemplified the spirit of versatility and the global nature of sports.
Pickleball’s Expanding Horizons
Andre Agassi and his wife, Steffi Graf, have long embraced pickleball as more than just a casual pastime. As top ambassadors for the sport, their influence extends beyond the court. In early 2025, the couple participated in the JOOLA Pickleball Legends Tour in Vietnam and China. This tour, designed to showcase pickleball in Asia, featured a host of renowned players such as Ben Johns, Anna Bright, Brooke Buckner, Tyson McGuffin, Collin Johns, and Zoey Wang. The clinics, exhibitions, and product demonstrations on the tour not only highlighted the sport’s dynamic appeal but also underscored the commitment of these legends to growing pickleball internationally.
Looking Ahead
The success of the Agassi Open Play Day underscores a promising future for pickleball. With its increasing popularity across the United States and abroad, events like these are not just about playful competition—they are about building bridges between different sports, cultures, and generations. For young athletes like Jack Loughridge, these experiences pave the way for lifelong connections and an enduring love for the game.
As the sport continues to attract diverse talents and passionate fans, each new event adds another chapter to the evolving story of pickleball—a sport celebrated for its accessibility, community spirit, and the joyful energy it brings to players of all ages.
