Our dear friend, and Top 10 Pickleball Pro, Michelle Esquivel joins us on the podcast today!  Whether it’s due to her incredible teaching skills, her passion for pickleball, or her infectious laugh it’s no mystery why Michelle is considered a fan favorite. Listen in for tips on the best way to return to the court after an injury, the story of how The Ultimate Pickleball Academy got started, how to know which event is right for you at a tournament, and how to be the best doubles partner you can be. You don’t want to miss this one, Pretty Picklers! 

About Michelle: 

Michelle Esquivel is Top 10 Pickleball Pro, IPTPA certified instructor, and Co-Director of Ultimate Pickleball Academy 

In 2015, Michelle was introduced to Pickleball and within a few years, she decided to teach and play Pickleball Full time professionally. Since then, Esquivel has medaled in singles and doubles at several Major Professional Pickleball tournaments including PPA events, APP events, US Open, and Nationals. 

She graduated from Concordia University, Irvine on a full tennis scholarship with a BA in Exercise Sports Science with an Emphasis in Teaching and Coaching.  After graduating, she became a USPTA instructor at Matchpoint Tennis Academy and collegiate tennis coach at Cypress College. She later obtained her Master’s Degree in Physical Education at Azusa Pacific University and began teaching Kinesiology classes at the community college level. 

Michelle established herself in the Pickleball community as one of the top instructors in the game and has experience teaching with EngagePickleball Camps, LevelUp, Pickleball Getaways, and Suncoast Pickleball Academy. Her passion and love for the sport have made her a fan favorite. She’s made appearances as a live commentator for several professional pickleball events and has also been featured as a guest on several podcast pickleball shows. 

Resources Mentioned:

• Follow Michelle on Instagram
• Check out the Ultimate Pickleball Academy
• Shop Michelle’s line at Faye + Florie!
• Learn more about The Pretty Picklers
• Follow The Pretty Picklers on IG @PrettyPicklers 
• Connect with The Pretty Picklers on Facebook!