Meet The Pros - Kevin Booth

Meet The Pros – Kevin Booth

Can you list for us your major wins, so we can correctly introduce you to our readers?
In the pickleball world I'm fairly new to the game. Some of my wins include:
            2017 Tournament Of Champions, Sr Open Mixed Doubles with Kris Anderson - Gold
2017 PPF Desert Championships, Senior Mixed Doubles with Kris Anderson - Gold
            2016 So Cal Classic, Men's Doubles 50+ with Steve Dawson - Gold
In Outdoor Racquetball I was a 5-time National Champion in Men's Pro Doubles and 7-time winner in the 40+ division.  

What paddle do you play with and why?
I use the Paddletek Tempest Wave. I like how soft and responsive the paddle is and the accuracy it gives me.

What’s your pickleball story? How were you introduced to pickleball?
After retiring from racquetball, I needed a new sport and a friend told me about pickleball. I was hooked from the first day I played.

What’s your preference, playing indoor or outdoor?
Well, although I only played indoors once at the Simi Valley Pro Tournament and placed 4th and loved it, I really only play outdoors. Who wouldn't rather be outdoors if possible?

Do you like singles or doubles better? Why?
Doubles really. There is so much more going on mentally. The way you have to play with and compliment your partner just makes it more fun. I've never played singles yet, but plan to in 2018.

What’s your favorite place to play? Why?
I guess I would have to say center court at the USAPA Nationals. It was quite a buzz and fun to play in front of a crowd that is into the match and only watching you. Very exhilarating. I could have played for another 2 hours!

What’s your secret sauce? Any tips for players?
Beyond the Tempest Wave Paddle, I would have to say a combination of patience and creativity. Master the soft short game and the rest will come.

What’s your day job?
We own New Life Cryotherapy in Rancho Santa Margarita in Southern California. It's a Whole Body Cryotherapy and Wellness Center. I also market BEMER devices for increasing micro-circulation and wellness.  

How many hours a week do you play? How do you make time to play?
Probably around 9 hours. We have a great group of 5.0 players here in Orange County, and oh yes, my wife lets me play!

Any lucky rituals before a big tournament?
Not sure I would call them 'lucky,' but I believe in making sure my body is free of any excess inflammation and that my micro-circulation is properly functioning. 

Do you have any pickleball goals you’d like to share?
Play as much as I can, travel if possible to some of the other larger tournaments and stay healthy!

Anything else you’d like to share about your experience being one of the best pickleball players in the world?
Ha, 'best in the world'...  I guess we were 'best' last Saturday for about 12 hours! Play, have fun, find a good partner and stay hydrated!