In 2016, John Enger, a young man with a passion for sports embarked on a journey that would take him from amateur pickleball tournaments to law school, intertwining his love for the game with a burgeoning legal career. His story is one of perseverance, family bonds, and seizing opportunities at every turn.

During middle school and going into high school, he was heavily involved in football until multiple shoulder injuries led doctors to recommend surgery. Deciding against it, he sought other ways to stay fit and stumbled upon pickleball. Between 2016 and 2020, he lost over 100 pounds and discovered a deep passion for the sport. By 2020, he was traveling the country with his father, participating in tournaments from Florida to California, and climbing the pickleball rankings to an impressive 5.4 rating.

His dedication paid off when he won a bronze medal in the men’s doubles at the 2022 US Open in Florida, competing in the open division against the best players in the world. However, this achievement was bittersweet as he sustained a stress fracture in his foot, which sidelined him for the summer.

With his pickleball career on hold, he began to explore other paths, spurred by the influence of his brothers, who were both attorneys. He decided to follow suit, taking the LSAT and enrolling at Akron Law School in January 2023, drawn by the prospect of combining his love for business with legal expertise.

One month into law school, he received a life-changing message from Chris Patrick, General Counsel and Commissioner of the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA). Chris had met him at the 2022 US Open and was impressed by his background in both pickleball and business. Chris needed a law clerk who understood both the sport and the legal landscape—qualities he embodied. Despite being just a month into law school, he seized the opportunity and began working with the PPA immediately.

Balancing law school with his new role at the PPA wasn’t easy. His first major project was spearheading and authoring the player tournament handbook, establishing crucial guidelines and codes of conduct to ensure the integrity of the sport, followed by implementing a Contract Lifecycle Management System across the company. When a divide between the PPA and Major League Pickleball threatened to disrupt the pickleball community, John worked tirelessly, often through the night, to navigate the complex negotiations and ultimately bring the two entities together under the United Pickleball Association (UPA).

Amidst his burgeoning career, he proposed to his girlfriend, Danielle, in June 2024, planning an intimate family gathering to celebrate. The couple has been busy traveling, from Maryland to Missouri, even visiting Montreal and Quebec City. 

Despite his busy schedule, he remains committed to the pickleball community. He started teaching after COVID-19, offering lessons and organizing camps at his family’s farm in Chester. John's impact extends far beyond the professional realm. Here in our community, he has been a driving force in promoting the sport and fostering a sense of camaraderie by welcoming top-ranked players to lead clinics and exhibitions, inspiring both seasoned players and newcomers alike. These events, hosted in the Gates Mills Village Hall Courts, have become beloved gatherings, where the community comes together to celebrate the sport, share a few drinks, and simply enjoy each other's company.

As he continues his law studies, he’s focused on building his career while staying true to his roots. The future holds many possibilities, but one thing is certain: his love for pickleball and commitment to his community will continue to guide his journey.

John often says that Pickleball is a sport for anyone, whether you're an experienced tennis pro or someone who's just looking to make new friends and try something fun. This sport, which has played a significant role in John's life, is more than just a game—it's a community.

If you're curious about what makes Pickleball so special, why not give it a try? The courts at the Village Hall are open to everyone. And don't worry if you don't have the gear—the Gates Mills Library offers free rentals of paddles and balls, along with easy-to-follow instructions to help you get started.

John firmly believes that Pickleball is destined to become an international sensation, and with the welcoming spirit of our community, now is the perfect time to join in the excitement. So, grab a paddle, head to the courts, and see for yourself why this sport has captured John's heart and the hearts of many others.