Ella Evans: A Rising Star in Pickleball Overcoming Adversity to Shine at the Veolia Atlanta Championships
Rising Star Ella Evans Triumphs at Veolia Atlanta Pickleball Championships
Atlanta, GA – In a heartwarming display of resilience and determination, 10-year-old Ella Evans clinched the girls’ doubles gold medal at the Veolia Atlanta Pickleball Championships, showcasing not only her talent but also her unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.
The young athlete’s victory comes just months after the passing of her father, Jake Evans, who lost a long battle with health issues at the age of 57 in February. For many, such a loss could have been overwhelming, but Ella chose to honor her father’s memory by continuing to pursue the sport he loved.
"He was just the greatest father I could ask for," Ella shared with Pickleball.com. "Even though his loss hurt me, that just encouraged me to get better and better and tell myself that he’s cheering for me every single tournament."
Currently ranked second in girls’ doubles, fourth in singles, and eighth in mixed doubles in the PPA Junior Girls 12U age category, Ella has proven herself a formidable competitor. Her coach, Johnson, praised her mental fortitude, noting, "A lot of players would break under that kind of pressure. But she has used it as a tool to motivate her even more."
Ella’s journey in pickleball began at the tender age of seven, and her dedication has only intensified since. "Once I get pretty hype, I just get so powerful," she explained, reflecting on her recent performances. "It probably just started at the NC tournament. At NC, I was just playing like a baller."
Her mother, Monica, recalls the moment Ella first stepped onto the court, exclaiming, "When she’s so fierce, it was just like ‘Oh my goodness. Who is this little girl? Where did she come from?’"
Johnson commended Ella’s work ethic, stating, "She is an absolute dawg out there. She doesn’t lose her focus. She really wants to win."
While Ella’s competitive spirit drives her to succeed, her ultimate goal is to inspire other young players in the sport. "I would love just to inspire the other juniors in pickleball," she said, embodying the spirit of resilience that has defined her journey.
As Ella Evans continues to rise in the ranks of pickleball, her story serves as a powerful reminder of the strength found in perseverance and the enduring bond of family. With each match, she not only plays for herself but also for the memory of her father, proving that true champions rise above challenges, inspiring others along the way.
