Carrina de Vera
Carrina de Vera stumbled upon pickleball around eight years ago during a casual chat with friends, sparking an immediate interest due to its reputation as both a fun and physically engaging sport. Upon discovering that the local YMCA offered pickleball sessions, she dove headfirst into the game, which soon became a vital part of her life. What started as casual play quickly evolved into competitive tournaments, leading her to share her passion by coaching others in the sport.
For Carrina, pickleball is more than just a hobby; it has been a life-changing experience. She cherishes the numerous opportunities to engage with the sport, promote its growth, and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Originally hailing from the Philippines, Carrina's family relocated to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, during her childhood. Her father, an avid tennis player, introduced the family to the sport, which Carrina embraced wholeheartedly and continued to play throughout her life, including her college years. Inspired by her father's belief that mastering tennis opens doors to other sports, Carrina took that message to heart. This philosophy has propelled her to excel in various athletic pursuits, including basketball, softball, and volleyball. She was a highly ranked junior tennis player and earned the title of two-time MVP while playing for the University of Pittsburgh. Beyond pickleball, Carrina enjoys a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, and kayaking, as well as traveling and sampling local cuisines. She also dedicates time to martial arts and yoga, blending her love for fitness with mindfulness.
“Coaching allows me to forge meaningful connections with players and witness their growth in a sport they love,” Carrina reflects on her coaching journey within the pickleball community.
Carrina expresses her appreciation for the backing of ONIX, stating, “Being a member of Team ONIX enriches my ability to teach, train, and travel extensively. I have a strong affinity for the ONIX logo and rely on the ONIX Malice DB Paddle. The stability of the Malice DB enhances my gameplay, especially when executing spins and making rapid grip adjustments for diverse shots.”
We are thrilled to have Carrina on Team ONIX. To discover more about our professional pickleball athletes, including Carrina, visit the link here. You can also explore our full range of pickleball products on the ONIX website here. We owe our success to the incredible support from our professional pickleball players.
Carrina de Vera’s Notable Pickleball Achievements:
- National Pickleball League Champions Pro Player for the OKC Punishers
- Competes in the Senior Pro Division
- IPTPA & PPR Certified Pickleball Teaching Professional