The 2026 Major League Pickleball season has been a breakthrough year for many youngsters. Teenagers have made the most of their opportunities, producing impressive performances and moments against experienced professionals.
From record breaking achievements to strong performances alongside experienced players, the league’s rising stars have shown they are ready for the biggest stage. Their success is proving that regardless of age, talent and confidence can make an impact in professional pickleball.
14-year-old Kelly Goodnow has become one of the standout young players of the 2026 MLP season after joining the Carolina Hogs from the player pool during MLP New York. After becoming the youngest player to win a PPA Challenger gold medal, she helped the Hogs secure a 3-1 victory over the Palm Beach Royals. Speaking about her MLP debut, Goodnow described the experience as “surreal” and said she was excited for the opportunity.
Another young player who made impressive start this season was Elsie Hendershot, who at just 13 years became the youngest player to win a game in MLP history. Representing the St. Louis Shock, Hendershot teamed up with Hayden Patriquin to achieve an 11-0 pickle during the St. Petersburg event, adding another memorable moment to the list of youth achievements.
Young players are also gaining valuable experience on the professional tours. 15-year-old Tama Shimabukuro, who turned professional in 2025, recently won the Pro Men’s Doubles title at the Tokyo Open alongside Yuta Funemizu and is ranked No. 18 in PPA doubles, while 16-year-old Camden Chaffin has also displayed progress on the PPA Tour. Both players have been highlighted in the 2026 MLP draft and player pool as bench and opportunity players gaining valuable experience.
Young players like Goodnow, Hendershot, Shimabukuro and Chaffin are showing that the next generation is already making name in pro Pickleball. Through player pools, drafts and team rosters, they are getting the chance to compete against some of the league’s top players. With the mid-season tournament and playoffs approaching, these emerging talents will be aiming to continue their impressive performances.
Written by Aditi Jain