Ariana Rodriguez

Ariana Rodriguez is a prodigious talent in the world of racquet sports, whose journey from a promising tennis prodigy to a pickleball sensation encapsulates her relentless drive and remarkable skill. Beginning her tennis journey at the tender age of 8, Ariana quickly distinguished herself as a top junior player in the country, earning the prestigious title of a blue chip recruit at age 15. Her prowess on the court led her to represent Puerto Rico at the 2012 Fed Cup tournament, showcasing her talent on an international stage.

Ariana honed her skills at the University of Louisville, where she competed fiercely in Division 1 tennis for four years, further solidifying her status as a top athlete. After college, she transitioned to coaching, sharing her wealth of knowledge as a tennis instructor at Mountainside Racquet Club. However, her competitive spirit found a new outlet in April 2023, when she took up pickleball. Demonstrating her adaptability and natural athleticism, Ariana achieved a 5.0 status in record time by the end of 2023, marking her as a force to be reckoned with.

Her swift ascent in the pickleball world is highlighted by notable tournament victories, including the 2023 USA Pickleball National Indoor Championship, the Montclair Winter Classic Open Division, and the inaugural GTA Open alongside fellow Heali athlete Christina Chin. By the first quarter of 2024, Ariana had already secured her place among the top 15 players in the North Mid-Atlantic Region, as rated by DUPR, as well as being recognized as a top player in her home state of New Jersey. Recognizing her talent and potential, Team Gearbox proudly sponsors Ariana, underscoring her status as a rising star in the sports world.