Carter Turner

Carter Turner, a dedicated member of Team ONIX and hailing from Roanoke, Virginia, embarked on his pickleball journey after experiencing a heart attack at the age of 47. Initially introduced to the sport by friends who spoke highly of it, Carter saw this as an opportunity to enhance his fitness levels following his health scare. With a sense of curiosity and a desire for a fun way to exercise, he decided to try his hand at pickleball. To his delight, the moment he struck the ball, he realized he had discovered a new passion. Having played tennis extensively until he was 26, picking up a pickleball racket after two decades away from the game was a gratifying experience. While he expected the balls to bounce differently and found himself short-arming several shots, the familiarity of his former tennis strokes quickly returned. By the time he left the court that day, Carter was already envisioning a future filled with pickleball, and that was nearly seven years ago—he has been playing ever since.

In his pickleball matches, Carter relies on the ONIX Evoke Premier Pro Raw Carbon Paddle and the Malice DB Paddle. These paddles are part of the ONIX Tournament Paddles collection and are popular among many professional players. Carter appreciates these paddles for their balanced weight and the agility they provide during gameplay, allowing him to respond quickly and effectively on the court.

One of the aspects Carter loves most about pickleball is the nostalgic connection it evokes to games he enjoyed in his childhood. The sport brings back fond memories and a sense of joy that he cherishes.

“There’s an element of unpredictability in pickleball that I find thrilling. Each point can unfold in unexpected ways. As I’ve matured, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the physical and mental advantages that come with playing. My strength, speed, endurance, and mental resilience have all significantly improved,” Carter shared.

Carter draws inspiration from his favorite athlete, hockey star Alex Ovechkin. He embodies the notion that with dedication and training, older athletes can continue to excel in their sports.

Looking ahead, Carter has set ambitious goals for himself. He aspires to win a national championship and play for an NPL team in the future. Currently, he proudly represents the Stonegate Swim Club and Performance Pickleball in Roanoke, Virginia.

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