In Search Of Excellence: Anna Leigh Waters – From the Youngest Prodigy to Pickleball’s #1 Player | Episode E144

Host: Randall Kaplan
Guest: Anna Leigh Waters
Release Date: December 31, 2024

1. Introduction and Early Beginnings

Randall Kaplan (00:41):
Anna Leigh Waters, at just 17 years old, stands as the world’s top-ranked female pickleball player. Her journey began remarkably early—at 12 years old, she became the youngest professional in the sport. By 14, she secured her first Triple Crown, and by 15, she dominated singles, doubles, and mixed doubles rankings. With an impressive tally of 44 singles titles, 40 women’s doubles titles, and 44 mixed doubles titles, Anna has amassed 128 gold medals, surpassing her closest competitor by 82.

Anna Leigh Waters (02:16):
"I didn’t know I was good at sports initially. When I was very young, I wasn’t interested and wasn’t athletic. But once I started playing tennis seriously, my interest surged, transforming my athletic journey."

2. Family Influence and Early Athletic Development

Anna recounts her upbringing in Allentown, Pennsylvania, and later moving near Raleigh. Her parents’ involvement in the hog business and athletic backgrounds provided a unique environment that fostered her athletic growth.

Randall Kaplan (02:00):
"Your mom played tennis in college, your dad played golf, and your grandfather was a draft pick for the Chicago Cubs. Despite this, Anna initially didn't see herself as athletic."

Anna Leigh Waters (03:21):
"I wasn’t forced into sports, but once I chose to pursue them, I became addicted. My parents’ support was crucial in allowing me to explore my athletic potential."

3. Discovery and Passion for Pickleball

During Hurricane Irma in September 2017, Anna and her mother discovered pickleball while seeking ways to pass time. Initially skeptical, they quickly became enamored with the sport after several sessions.

Anna Leigh Waters (09:24):
"We started playing pickleball almost by accident during Hurricane Irma. Initially, we thought it was just a casual activity, but after playing multiple times, we were hooked."

Randall Kaplan (10:39):
"After your first few games, did you realize how addictive pickleball was?"

Anna Leigh Waters (12:27):
"It was an immediate passion. Even with budget constraints on equipment, our enthusiasm kept growing."

4. Transition to Professional Play and Early Success

Anna's entry into professional pickleball was unplanned. After attending a tournament in November 2017, she and her mother were encouraged to compete seriously, leading to rapid success.

Anna Leigh Waters (17:12):
"We showed up to a tournament without even intending to compete seriously. Mid-tournament, Anna was bumped up from a beginner level to a more advanced one based on her performance, marking the start of her professional journey."

Anna Leigh Waters (20:16):
"When we won silver, I was actually 11 years old. Turning pro at 12 made my stats even more remarkable."

5. Understanding Pickleball: Rules and Strategies

Anna provides an insightful explanation of pickleball’s rules and strategies, highlighting how the game blends elements from badminton, tennis, and ping pong.

Anna Leigh Waters (12:27):
"Pickleball is a mix between badminton, ping pong, and tennis. The kitchen line creates a non-volley zone which adds a strategic layer to the game."

Randall Kaplan (14:35):
"Initially, many players, including myself, tend to 'whale away' at the ball, but Anna explains the importance of controlled, strategic play."

Anna Leigh Waters (15:05):
"Pickleball isn’t as easy as it looks on TV. The real-life speed and strategy make it highly competitive and addictive."

6. Training Regimen and Injury Prevention

Anna discusses the importance of physical conditioning and injury prevention in maintaining peak performance.

Anna Leigh Waters (26:25):
"Pickleball requires endurance, strength, and quick reflexes. Training involves not just playing but also physical therapy and regular workouts to prevent injuries."

Randall Kaplan (52:16):
"After experiencing a severe ankle sprain, I realized the importance of proper training and conditioning."

Anna Leigh Waters (53:45):
"Many newcomers underestimate the physical demands of pickleball. Regular physical activity and preventative measures are essential to avoid injuries."

7. Professional Leagues and Competitive Landscape

Anna elaborates on the structure of professional pickleball leagues, particularly the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and Major League Pickleball (MLP), highlighting their differences and the recent merger.

Anna Leigh Waters (54:23):
"The PPA is akin to tennis’s ATP, focusing on player-driven tournaments and rankings. In contrast, the MLP adopts a team-based format with celebrity owners, similar to traditional American sports leagues."

Anna Leigh Waters (60:01):
"MLP aimed to make pickleball a team sport with cities owning teams, attracting celebrities like Tom Brady and LeBron James, which significantly boosted its popularity."

Anna Leigh Waters (54:42):
"The merger between PPA and MLP streamlined the professional landscape, making it easier for fans to understand and for players to navigate their careers."

8. Personal Reflections and Achievements

Anna reflects on her journey, the role of her family, and the fleeting nature of her top-ranking status.

Anna Leigh Waters (44:19):
"Becoming number one wasn’t something I constantly thought about. It was an achievement I always expected myself to reach through self-belief and drive."

Anna Leigh Waters (44:32):
"Digital trophies and rankings meant a lot, but enjoying every moment was crucial as the sport continues to evolve and competition intensifies."

9. Advice for Aspiring Athletes and Enthusiasts

Anna offers valuable advice for young athletes and pickleball enthusiasts, emphasizing passion, perseverance, and self-discovery.

Anna Leigh Waters (45:45):
"Do what you love whenever you find it. Passion is the right path to sustain success and enjoyment in any field."

Anna Leigh Waters (49:47):
"To master pickleball, start by playing naturally without adhering strictly to others' advice. Discover your strengths and refine them through practice and learning."

10. Closing Thoughts and Future Outlook

As the podcast concludes, Anna highlights the exponential growth of pickleball and its inclusive nature, making it a beloved sport across various age groups.

Anna Leigh Waters (46:58):
"The sport’s growth is phenomenal, driven by its accessibility and the support of influential figures. Pickleball serves as a unifying activity for families and individuals alike."

Randall Kaplan (57:56):
"Anna, your journey is truly inspirational. From discovering pickleball during a hurricane to dominating the professional scene, your story exemplifies excellence."

Conclusion:
Anna Leigh Waters' story is a testament to innate talent nurtured by supportive family dynamics and relentless dedication. Her insights into pickleball’s intricacies, combined with her professional experiences, provide a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to excel in a rapidly growing sport. For aspiring athletes and enthusiasts, Anna’s journey underscores the importance of passion, adaptability, and continuous learning in the pursuit of excellence.

Notable Quotes:

• Anna Leigh Waters (03:21):
  "I wasn't forced into sports, but once I chose to pursue them, I became addicted."

• Anna Leigh Waters (12:27):
  "Pickleball is a mix between badminton, ping pong, and tennis."

• Anna Leigh Waters (20:16):
  "Turning pro at 12 made my stats even more remarkable."

• Anna Leigh Waters (45:45):
  "Do what you love whenever you find it."

• Anna Leigh Waters (49:47):
  "To master pickleball, start by playing naturally without adhering strictly to others' advice."