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Monica Paolicelli

Monica Paolicelli - Pro Pickleball Player

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Gender

Female

Age

35

Location

Annapolis, Maryland

Plays

Left-handed

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Monica’s Profile

Monica Paolicelli grew up in McLean, Virginia, and later moved to Annapolis, Maryland. She began playing pickleball professionally in 2021, making her debut at the Tournament of Champions where she finished 4th out of 15 teams in her first mixed Pro event. Prior to her pickleball career, Monica was involved in coaching and teaching professional fitness classes, personal training clients in their homes, and serving as the director of pickleball for the Dill Dinkers Indoor facility.

Her athletic background includes playing collegiate soccer, which contributed to her strong competitive drive and understanding of sports dynamics. Monica’s transition to pickleball was driven by her passion for sports and the desire to engage in a rapidly growing and dynamic community. Her dedication to the sport is evident in her active participation in tournaments and her commitment to promoting pickleball through coaching and community involvement.

In 2022, Monica achieved significant milestones, including winning Pro Gold Medals in both mixed and women’s categories at the Atlantic City Pickleball Open, the largest indoor tournament in the country. She also secured top 5 finishes at the APP NY Open, New Jersey, and Philadelphia events, showcasing her versatility and skill across different formats. Monica’s performance in the GAMMA Classic was also noteworthy, where she earned a Women’s Pro Doubles gold medal and a Mixed Pro Silver Medal.

These accomplishments highlight her consistent performance and ability to compete at a high level in the professional pickleball circuit. Her training regimen is rigorous, focusing on enhancing both her offensive and defensive skills, which has contributed to her success in various tournaments. Monica’s playing style is characterized by a smart offense and strong defense, attributes that have earned her daily compliments from peers and fans alike.

As of November 2025, Monica continues to compete professionally, representing the MLP DC Pickleball Team and maintaining an active presence in the pickleball community. Her left-handed play adds a unique dimension to her game, making her a formidable opponent on the court. Monica’s future goals include further developing her skills, achieving higher rankings, and contributing to the growth and popularity of pickleball through her performances and coaching endeavors.

Popular Video

“I love the competitive spirit of pickleball.”

— Monica Paolicelli

Top Strategy Tips

1

Focus on developing a strong cross-court forehand to control rallies and create offensive opportunities.

2

Enhance your defensive skills by practicing quick reflexes and positioning to effectively counter aggressive shots.

3

Incorporate regular fitness training to improve agility and endurance, which are crucial for maintaining a high level of play throughout matches.

🏆 Career Highlights

Pro Gold Medalist in Mixed and Women’s categories at the 2022 Atlantic City Pickleball Open

Top 5 finishes at the 2022 APP NY Open, New Jersey, and Philadelphia events

Women’s Pro Doubles Gold Medal and Mixed Pro Silver Medal at the 2022 GAMMA Classic