A junior champion whose fearless development accelerated into Major League Pickleball
Hendershot developed in Mapleton after her family began playing pickleball together. Her parents and professional player Allyce Jones helped guide her early development, while regular family training supported an unusually fast progression from local competition to the Junior PPA stage.
Her left-handed game creates uncommon crosscourt patterns, especially through a backhand crosscourt dink and flick. Heavy groundstrokes, patient point construction and composure against older opponents helped her earn junior championships, a UPA Futures contract and an MLP opportunity before entering high school.
What makes Elsie Hendershot one of pickleball’s leading young prospects?
Hendershot combines left-handed angles, heavy groundstrokes and a composed crosscourt game with the willingness to challenge experienced professionals. Her rapid adjustments and calm under pressure helped turn junior titles into an MLP role at age 13.