Player Spotlight: Jeffrey Johnson — From Oceanside to the Court

This month’s Player Spotlight shines on a competitor who brings not only skill to the court but also heart and humility to the game. Born in Oceanside, California and now living in Abilene, Texas, Jeffrey Johnson was introduced to the sport by a friend — and hasn’t looked back since.

Let’s dive into his pickleball journey, the people who inspire him, and what makes Pickleball Power Play his tournament of choice.

🏓 Pickleball Power Play: How did you first get into pickleball?

Jeffrey: My friend Terry Cagle introduced me to the game!

💬 What do you love most about pickleball?

How the camaraderie brings all types of people together.

🥇 Most memorable pickleball moment?

Playing in a PPA tournament and getting to see Connor Gannett.

💪 How has the sport impacted your life?

Pickleball has truly changed my life for the better. It’s helped me make friends and travel to places I never would have otherwise.

🚨 How did you discover Pickleball Power Play?

I found it online and thought, this format is like the pros — and I wanted that same opportunity to compete.

🎉 What’s your experience been like playing Power Play events?

Always good fun and high-level competition. I look forward to them every time.

🔥 What makes Power Play tournaments different?

The format and structure — it allows you to compete against top players in your area, in a way that you don’t get at every other event.

🏟 Favorite venue or event so far?

Pickleball Kingdom — no question!

🎒 Any advice for first-time Power Play players?

Bring bananas and good court shoes — trust me, you’ll thank me later.

📈 What’s your current rating and goal?

I’m currently rated 3.9, and my goal is to get to a 4.1 or 4.2 and stay above 4.0 consistently. I keep hitting it and dipping — it’s a battle!

🏡 Where are you from and where do you live now?

Born in Oceanside, California — currently living in Abilene, Texas.

💼 What do you do for work?

I work for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas.

🤓 Fun fact about your job?

I work with some of the most compassionate people in the world.

🎨 Any hobbies outside of pickleball?

Yes! I love volunteering and I’m also musically inclined.

🗓 What’s a weekend like off the courts?

It’s all about prepping for the next tournament — whether that’s watching film or letting my body recover.

👨‍👩‍👧 Any family support for your pickleball journey?

Right now, I’m not in a relationship — but the beautiful thing is, I’ve gained a pickleball family that I wouldn’t have found without the game.

✈️ Have you traveled for tournaments?

Absolutely. I’ve played in Austin, Lubbock, Dallas, Las Vegas, and more. My favorite so far? Georgetown — it’s stunning in the spring!

🌟 Who inspires you?

Ray Hernandez and Brad Stanford — both on and off the court.

💖 What are you proud of outside of pickleball?

Who I am as a person. How I treat others means everything to me — no matter what someone has or doesn’t have, I treat everyone with respect.

🎾 Dream match?

Me and Tyra Black vs. JW and Jorja Johnson. I saw them at a PPA tournament — they seem like wonderful people off the court, and I’d love to share a court with them.

💬 Final Thoughts

Jeffrey Johnson reminds us that pickleball is about more than medals — it’s about community, character, and the love of the game. From California roots to Texas courts, his journey is just getting started — and we’re proud to have him as part of the Pickleball Power Play family.growing the game. We’re lucky to have her as part of our family — and can’t wait to see what state she plays in next!