At Centerline Athletics, we take immense pride in supporting athletes who exemplify dedication, passion, and excellence in their sport. One such athlete is our sponsored player, Zach Gonnering, whose remarkable journey from basketball courts to becoming a top-ranked pickleball player is truly inspiring.

Hailing from Wisconsin, where Centerline Athletics was founded, Zach's athletic journey began with cross-country running and basketball at Bay Port High School. Initially, he viewed pickleball as an obstacle, with nets encroaching on his basketball courts. However, after accepting an invitation from his parents to try the sport, Zach quickly became captivated. He found himself dedicating four to six hours daily to training, driven by a newfound passion.

This dedication propelled Zach to become the No. 3 pickleball player in Wisconsin and earn a spot among the top 20 nationally for men aged 23 and under. His commitment to the sport is evident as he balances online classes with a rigorous schedule of training and tournaments.

Zach's story mirrors the rapid growth of pickleball, especially among younger players. In 2020, the majority of players were aged 55 to 74, but now, over 70% are between 18 and 44—a shift Zach has witnessed firsthand. He believes that as the sport continues to evolve, more parents will enroll their children in pickleball, further diversifying its player base. 

At Centerline Athletics, we are honored to support athletes like Zach, who embody the spirit of perseverance and passion. His journey from a basketball player to a pickleball champion is a testament to the transformative power of dedication. We look forward to cheering him on as he continues to achieve new heights in his pickleball career.

For a closer look at Zach's inspiring journey, check out this feature by NBC 26: https://youtu.be/IMsbHhnfx3E