‍Home town: Fort Myers, Florida

Playing Hand: Right Handed

Sponsors: Paddletek, The Picklr, Babolat Shoes

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Hi Kyle! We are so excited to have a chat with you today about all things Pickleball and Major League Pickleball Australia. I think everyone has been dying to get to know you better! First up, you’ve been drafted for the Brisbane Breakers as their number #1 pick, chosen by Captain Ludociva Sciaky and the overall 6th pick of the draft. What is it that attracted you to apply for Major League Pickleball in Australia for Season 2 and can you tell us about your reaction when you got picked!

First off, of course I’m stoked to be playing in MLP Australia! I didn’t have any preference which team to play for, but I’m thrilled to represent Brisbane this season. I already have so much respect for all Lu has done to help grow pickleball in Australia. She has helped lay down the foundation for the next generation of players, and I hope we can continue to build on that.

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Now, you’re a well-known Pickleball Player around the world and have played in many tournaments with a variety of different players. What is your expectation leading up to playing with and/or against Australian, Asian, and NZ players? What style of play are you expecting to face?

I’m no stranger to playing with different partners, but that’s one of the many things I enjoy about pickleball: meeting and competing with/against new people. It’ll be great to build that chemistry with my new team and help each other grow as players. As for expectations, I certainly won’t be taking anyone lightly. This league is full of quality professionals, and it’s about time we showcase how global this sport has become.

Speaking of global, there are three iconic locations in Season 2 of MLP Australia; starting off on the Gold Coast in Queensland, Australia, then over to Vietnam in South-East Asia, and finally back to Australia for the Melbourne Championships. What event/location are you most looking forward to and why?

If I had to choose, I’d say I’m most excited for the first event. I can’t wait to see all the teams in action for the first time and, of course, the famous Gold Coast beaches. That being said, I could’ve thrown a dart at a globe while blindfolded and been happy.

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Other than competing in the MLPA for the Brisbane Breakers, what other events have you got planned for the rest of the year?

Since the “Tour Wars” last year, I’ve been focusing more on off-court projects this year; growing pickleball at the local level. But I definitely miss competing, so the plan is to compete hard at MLPA and see what happens.

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Lastly, how do you see the growth of pickleball for 2025 and beyond? Is there anything you’d love to see happen with the sport, and can we expect to see you apply for the 2025 MLPA Draft?

We’re just getting warmed up! We’ve come a long way since I first picked up a paddle in 2011, and I see no reason why it won’t continue. I’m focused on MLPA 2024 right now, so ask me again after Melbourne!

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Thank you so much, Kyle! It's been great chatting with you, and we can’t wait to see you in action this season. Best of luck with the Brisbane Breakers!

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To keep up to date with Kyle and all things pickleball make sure you follow his Instagram!

https://www.instagram.com/kyleyates.pb/

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