Callie Smith: One Of Pickleball’s Best Rising Stars
Callie Jo Smith is a professional pickleball player who has made a name for herself in the sport. She is known for her impressive skills on the court and her dedication to the game. Smith has been playing pickleball for several years and has risen to the top ranks of the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) in both Women’s Doubles and Women’s Singles.
Smith’s background in tennis has undoubtedly contributed to her success in pickleball. She played Division 1 tennis at the University of Utah and has continued to teach tennis alongside her pickleball career. Smith’s athleticism and competitive spirit have translated well to the sport of pickleball, and she has quickly become one of the top players in the game.
Despite her success, Smith remains humble and dedicated to improving her game. She continues to travel on the pro tour, playing singles and doubles with partner Catherine Parenteau and holds clinics at various clubs and locations around the country. Smith’s passion for the sport and her commitment to excellence have made her a role model for aspiring pickleball players everywhere.
| Information | Callie Smith |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Callie Smith |
| Birthplace | Orem, Utah |
| Age | 32 |
| Height | 5′ 10″ (1.78 meters) |
| Turned Pickleball Pro | 2019 |
| Education | University of Utah |
| Other Sports | Tennis – Collegiate |
| Notable Achievements | 10-time gold medalist in PPA Open Tournaments 2-time gold medalist Selkirk Red Rock Open 27 medals since 2019, including: PPA Mesa Grand Slam APP Tour SoCal Classic Major League Pickleball (MLP) – 2021 |
| Pickleball Partner (s) | Major League Pickleball drafted #7 10-time gold medalist in PPA Open Tournaments |
| Major Sponsors | -Onix Pickleball – Fila |
| Married | Yes, Kyle Smith |
| Children | Camber and Stockton |
| Net Worth | Estimated in six-figure range |
| Rank in Pickleball | WPR: #5 in Women’s Doubles, #9 Women Singles PPA: #4 in Women’s Doubles, #8 Mixed Doubles |
| @calliejosmith_pickleball | |
| @calliesmithpb | |
| calliejo.smith.58 | |
| Favorite Paddle | Onix Evoke Premier |
| Favorite Shoe | Filla Volley Zone |
Early Life and Family
Callie Smith was born and raised in Orem, Utah. From a young age, she was taught tennis by various members of her family, most notably her grandfather, the late Wayne Pierce. Her family played a significant role in her early life and athletic development.
Callie’s mother, whose name is not publicly known, was also involved in her athletic pursuits. In an interview, Callie mentioned that her mother was a former tennis player who played at a high level. Her mother’s involvement in tennis likely played a role in Callie’s early exposure to the sport.
Is Callie Smith Married?
Callie Smith is married to Kyle Smith, and they have two children, Camber and Stockton. She has mentioned in interviews that her family is very supportive of her career as a professional pickleball player. In fact, her family often attends her matches and cheers her on from the sidelines.
Overall, Callie’s family played a significant role in her early life and athletic development. Their support and encouragement have helped her achieve success in her career as a professional pickleball player.
Where Did Callie Smith Go To College?
Callie Jo Smith, a professional pickleball player, has a background in tennis. She played Division 1 collegiate tennis at the University of Utah, where she graduated with a degree in exercise and sport science.
During her time at the University of Utah, Smith was an accomplished athlete, earning several accolades for her performance on the tennis court. She was a four-time letter winner and was named the team’s Most Valuable Player in 2010.
Before attending the University of Utah, Smith also played tennis at Brigham Young University. While there, she was a two-time letter winner and helped lead the team to a conference championship in 2007.
Smith’s experience playing tennis at the collegiate level has undoubtedly contributed to her success as a professional pickleball player. Her knowledge of the sport and her ability to compete at a high level has made her a force to be reckoned with on the pickleball court.
Did Callie Smith Play Tennis?
Callie Smith’s athletic journey started with tennis. She played Division 1 collegiate tennis at the University of Utah after dominating in junior tennis, winning the Utah state title four years in a row. Smith’s tennis career was impressive, and she was on track to pursue it professionally. However, things took a turn when she was introduced to the sport of pickleball.
Smith’s experience in tennis helped her transition to pickleball smoothly, as the two sports share similarities in terms of court size and movement. She quickly fell in love with the sport and decided to pursue it professionally. Despite leaving tennis behind, Smith’s tennis career undoubtedly helped her develop the skills necessary to excel in pickleball.
Smith’s tennis background is evident in her pickleball game. She has a powerful serve, a strong backhand, and a strategic playing style that sets her apart from other players. Her experience in tennis also helps her adapt to different court surfaces and playing conditions, making her a formidable opponent in any situation.
Overall, Callie Smith’s tennis career played a significant role in shaping her as a pickleball player. Her skills, experience, and competitive mindset have helped her become one of the top players in the sport today.
Transition to Pickleball
Callie Smith’s transition from tennis to pickleball was a natural progression for the Utah native. Smith was a standout tennis player in her youth, winning the Utah state title four years in a row before playing Division 1 collegiate tennis at the University of Utah. After college, Smith continued to play tennis professionally, but her focus shifted to pickleball in 2017.
Smith’s husband, Kyle, introduced her to the sport, and she quickly fell in love with the fast-paced, competitive nature of pickleball. Smith’s transition to pickleball was aided by her tennis background, as many of the skills she learned on the tennis court translated well to the sport of pickleball.
Smith’s success on the pickleball court has been nothing short of impressive. Since turning pro in 2019, Smith has quickly built a name for herself as a formidable force on the court and someone hungry for victory. She is currently ranked #4 in PPA Women’s Doubles and #8 in Mixed Doubles.
Does Callie Smith Have Any Business Interests?
In addition to her success on the court, Smith is also a co-founder and co-owner of Paddle Up Pickleball Academy with her husband, Kyle, per US Sports Camps. The academy offers pickleball lessons and clinics for players of all skill levels. Smith’s dedication to the sport and her desire to help others improve their skills have made her a respected figure in the pickleball community.
Smith’s success on the court and her involvement in the sport through Paddle Up Pickleball Academy is a testament to the family’s love and dedication to the sport of pickleball.
Professional Pickleball Career
Callie Smith turned pro in 2019 and has quickly become a force to be reckoned with on the professional pickleball circuit.
Smith has seen great success in both women’s doubles and women’s singles. She is currently ranked #4 in PPA Women’s Doubles and #8 in Mixed Doubles, according to the PPA. Smith’s success has earned her recognition as a pro athlete to watch for in the coming months.
Smith has competed in numerous professional events, including the U.S. Open and other major pickleball tournaments. She has consistently performed well in these tournaments, showcasing her skills and determination on the court.
Smith’s success can be attributed to her hard work and dedication to the sport. She is a former tennis player who played D1 at the University of Utah, and her experience and skills have translated well to the world of pickleball.
Overall, Callie Smith’s professional pickleball career has been impressive, and she is a rising star in the sport. With her skills and determination, it’s clear that she will continue to make waves in the world of pickleball for years to come.
Tournament Achievements
Callie Smith has had an impressive career in professional pickleball, with numerous tournament wins and high rankings in both women’s singles and doubles. Here are some of her notable achievements:
- In 2023, Callie Smith won the Women’s Doubles division at the Newport Beach Shootout
- Smith won the Women’s Doubles division in 2023 at the PPA Indoor National Championships.
- Callie Smith won the Women’s Doubles Pro division in 2022 at the Selkirk Lab Showdown Pro Invitational
- In 2022, Callie Smith won the Women’s Doubles Pro division at the PPA Atlanta Open
- Callie Smith won the Women’s Doubles Pro division at the Ororo PPA Indoor National Championships in 2022
- Smith won the Women’s Doubles Pro division at the PPA Foot Solutions Championships in 2022
- In 2022, Callie Smith won the Doubles Pro division at the Carvana PPA Desert Ridge
- In 2021, Smith reached a career-high ranking of #3 in both Women’s Singles and Women’s Doubles by the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) [1].
- Smith won the Women’s Doubles Pro division at the 2021 Las Vegas Pickleball Open, partnering with fellow pro, Sarah Ansboury [2].
- Smith also won the Women’s Doubles Pro division at the 2021 APP Tour SoCal Classic, again partnering with Ansboury [3].
- In 2020, Smith won the Women’s Doubles Pro division at the PPA Atlanta Metro Open, playing with Lucy Kovalova [4].
- Smith and Kovalova also won the Women’s Doubles Pro division at the 2020 PPA Texas Open [5].
- In 2019, Smith won the Women’s Doubles Pro division at the PPA Mesa Grand Slam, playing with Simone Jardim [6].
- Smith and Jardim also won the Women’s Doubles Pro division at the 2019 PPA Las Vegas Open [7].
Smith’s consistent success in women’s doubles, often with different partners, is a testament to her skill and adaptability on the court. Her high rankings in both singles and doubles demonstrate her versatility and all-around ability as a pickleball player.
Partnerships and Rivalries
Callie Smith has had several partnerships and rivalries throughout her professional pickleball career. One of her most successful partnerships was with Catherine Parenteau. The duo won the Women’s Doubles title at the 2022 U.S. Open Pickleball Championships, defeating the team of Leigh Waters and Anna Leigh Waters in the final. Smith and Parenteau also reached the semifinals of the Women’s Doubles competition at the 2023 California Open.
Smith has also partnered several times with Lucy Kovalova and, together, have won several Women’s Doubles gold medals.
While Callie Smith has had several successful partnerships, she has also had some notable rivalries on the court. One of her most intense rivalries has been with Anna Leigh Waters. The two have faced off several times in Women’s Doubles competitions, with both players determined to come out on top. Smith and Waters have split their last four meetings, with each player winning two matches.
Another notable rivalry for Smith has been with Kyle Yates. The two have faced off in several Mixed Doubles competitions, with Yates teaming up with Simone Jardim. Smith and Yates have split their last four meetings, with each duo winning two matches.
Despite these rivalries, Smith maintains a professional and respectful attitude towards her opponents. She recognizes the talent and skill of her rivals and strives to improve her own game with each match.
Training and Nutrition
Callie Smith is an athlete who takes her training and nutrition seriously, and it shows in her performance on the court. She believes that physical training and proper nutrition are key to achieving success in pickleball.
When it comes to training, Callie focuses on a combination of cardio, strength, and agility exercises. She regularly shares her workout routines on her social media channels and instructional workout videos, providing her fans with insight into her training regimen. Callie also emphasizes the importance of working out with a purpose and tailoring workouts to specific goals.
In addition to physical training, Callie also pays close attention to her nutrition. She is a firm believer in the power of healthy eating and regularly shares her favorite recipes and nutrition tips with her followers. Callie’s diet is centered around whole, nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats. She also stresses the importance of staying hydrated and drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
When it comes to equipment, Callie uses a paddle that is comfortable and suits her playing style. She recommends that players experiment with different paddles to find the one that works best for them. Callie also stresses the importance of taking care of equipment, such as keeping paddles clean and dry, to ensure longevity.
Overall, Callie’s approach to training and nutrition is confident, knowledgeable, and clear. She recognizes the importance of physical training and proper nutrition in achieving success and shares her insights and tips with her fans.
Equipment and Sponsors
Callie Smith is a professional pickleball player who has quickly become a force to be reckoned with on the court. Her success has not gone unnoticed, and she has attracted the attention of several sponsors who have helped her to achieve even greater success.
What Paddle Does Callie Smith Use?
One of Callie’s most important pieces of equipment is her paddle, and she uses the Onix Evoke Premier CT-16 paddle. This paddle is known for its power and control, which are essential qualities for a successful pickleball player. The paddle is designed to provide a large sweet spot, which helps to reduce the number of mishits and increase the accuracy of shots.
In addition to her paddle, Callie also relies on other equipment to help her perform at her best. This includes her shoes, clothing, and other accessories, all of which are carefully chosen to provide the right combination of comfort, support, and style.
Callie is sponsored by several companies, including Optivida Health and Spry Smile. These companies provide her with financial support, as well as access to their products and services. Optivida Health is a health and wellness company that provides a range of supplements and other products designed to support overall health and well-being. Spry Smile is a dental care company that offers a range of products designed to promote healthy teeth and gums.
In addition to these companies, Callie also has a sponsorship deal with Onix, the manufacturer of her paddle. This sponsorship provides her with access to the latest paddle technology, as well as other benefits such as exposure and marketing support.
What Pickleball Shoe Does Callie Smith Wear?
Callie Smith wears the Fila Volley Zone Shoe.
Overall, Callie’s equipment and sponsors are an important part of her success as a pickleball player. By carefully choosing the right equipment and partnering with the right sponsors, she has been able to achieve her goals and establish herself as one of the top players in the sport.
Personal Life
Callie Smith was born and raised in the state of Utah, where she currently resides with her husband and two children. She is an avid traveler and enjoys exploring new places. In her free time, she loves to read, watch movies, and play the piano.
Callie is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and was married and sealed to her husband in the Salt Lake Temple. She stands tall at 5 feet 10 inches and enjoys spending time outdoors, whether it’s hiking, camping, or playing pickleball.
When she’s not on the court, Callie enjoys cooking and baking. She also has a passion for hair and has been known to style her teammates’ hair during tournaments, earning her the nickname “Rapunzel.”
Despite her busy schedule, Callie makes sure to prioritize her family and spends quality time with them whenever possible.
Social Media Presence
Callie Smith has a strong presence on social media, with a significant following on Instagram and YouTube. Her Instagram account, @calliejosmith_pickleball, has over 36,000 followers and features photos and videos of her playing pickleball, as well as training tips and updates on her tournaments and travels. She also uses Instagram to promote her clinics and camps, which she holds at various clubs and locations around the country.
On YouTube, Callie has a channel called Callie Smith PB where she shares videos of her matches, highlights, and training sessions. Her channel has over 2,000 subscribers and is a great resource for pickleball players looking to improve their game. In addition to her own channel, Callie has been featured in videos on other pickleball channels, such as the Pickleball Channel.
Callie Smith is active on other social media platforms as well, including Facebook and Twitter. She uses these platforms to share updates on her tournaments and travels, as well as to interact with her fans and fellow pickleball players. Her social media presence has helped her build a strong following and connect with fans and players from around the world.
Overall, Callie Smith’s social media presence is a testament to her commitment to the sport of pickleball and her desire to help others improve their game. Her videos and posts offer valuable insights and tips for players of all levels, and her engaging personality and passion for the sport have made her a beloved figure in the pickleball community.
Other Interests
Aside from being a professional pickleball player, Callie Smith has a wide range of other interests. She enjoys outdoor activities such as biking and running. She is also an avid traveler and loves to explore new places.
In addition to her love for sports and travel, Callie Smith is also passionate about music. She enjoys singing and playing the piano, and even composes her own music. Her musical talents have been showcased in several videos posted on her social media accounts.
Callie also has a sweet tooth and loves chocolate. She has mentioned in interviews that she enjoys indulging in some chocolate every now and then, especially after a tough match or training session.
Overall, Callie Smith is a well-rounded individual with a variety of interests outside of the sport of pickleball. Her love for music, travel, and chocolate, coupled with her dedication to the sport, make her a unique and interesting individual both on and off the court.
Legacy and Influence
Callie Smith is an aggressive and skilled pickleball player who has made a significant impact on the sport since turning professional in 2019. As one of the top female players in the world, Smith’s impressive defense and signature long braid have become well-known trademarks of her game.
Smith’s success on the court has also made her a role model for aspiring professionals in the sport, particularly for female players. Her aggressive style of play and dedication to improving her skill level have set a high standard for others to follow.
Smith’s influence on the sport extends beyond her own achievements, as she has also been instrumental in promoting pickleball at the collegiate level. As a former Division 1 tennis player at the University of Utah, Smith’s experience and knowledge of the game have been invaluable in helping to establish pickleball programs at Pac-12 universities.
Overall, Callie Smith’s legacy in the sport of pickleball is one of excellence, dedication, and influence. As one of the top professionals in the game today, Smith’s impact on the sport is sure to be felt for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Callie Smith’s height in pickleball?
Callie Smith’s height in pickleball is 5’10”.
What is Callie Smith’s ranking in pickleball?
Callie Smith is currently ranked #4 in the Professional Pickleball Association for women’s pro doubles.
Where can I find Callie Smith’s pickleball camp?
Information about Callie Smith’s pickleball camp can be found on her website or social media pages.
Does Callie Smith offer pickleball lessons?
Yes, Callie Smith offers pickleball lessons. Interested individuals can contact her through her website or social media pages for more information.
What are Callie Smith’s preferred pickleball shoes?
Callie Smith’s preferred pickleball shoes are the Fila Volley Zone.
What paddle does Anna Leigh Waters use?
Anna Leigh Waters uses the Paddletek Bantam TS-5 pickleball paddle.
What pickleball paddle does Tyson McGuffin use?
Tyson McGuffin uses the Selkirk Vanguard Power Air Invikta paddle.
