Selkirk Sport athletes reflect on their mothers' impact

on May 10, 2024

The entire Barnes family stands together in a park. They are smiling at the camera and behind them is fall foliage.

As Mother's Day draws near, many take the time to acknowledge the unique and diverse ways in which their mothers have contributed to their journey.

Ahead of the holiday, Selkirk Sport athletes shared how their mothers have contributed to their success, both on and off the court.

Read what the athletes had to say about their mothers, in their own words. Plus, slide the images to see what the athletes looked like before they were pros.

Rachel Rohrabacher

My mom has been so supportive of my entire athletic career to date. Her and my father committed to funding my junior tennis career so that I could pave a future for myself with a scholarship to a D1 university.

Not only has their choice to put me in tennis helped me get my degree, but it has given me a completely other career in pickleball.

My mom is always one of the first people to text me after my matches, win or lose. She is such a proud parent, which makes me want to work even harder to continue making her proud of me.

Everything I do is for my family, and I would not be where I am today as both a pickleball player or a person without my mom.

Pickleball pro Rachel Rohrabacher as a child with her mother, both wearing hats, sitting on a couch.

Pickleball pro Rachel Rohrabacher with her supportive parents at a pickleball event, smiling together.

Collin Shick

I wouldn't be where I am today without my mom. She has been my biggest fan, teacher, and role model.

From driving across the country for tennis tournaments, to putting up with me while supporting homeschooling, to supporting me no matter where life has taken me, I am so grateful to have the best mom ever.

A mother and child smiling together on skis, showcasing their bond and support.

A mother holding a baby while a young boy points at the baby, conveying family support and love.

Ava and James Ignatowich

We are so lucky to have a mom as amazing as ours. No one believes in us more or supports us harder than she does.

A mother sitting in a chair with her son holding an umbrella and daughter beside them, surrounded by wrapping paper.

Pickleball pros Ava and James Ignatowich smiling together, showing joy and connection.

Judit Castillo

I would not be where I am without my mom. She has supported every one of my career adventures — from track to soccer to tennis, coming to the states for college, and now, pickleball.

She's the most intelligent woman I've ever known and my siblings and I are very thankful to have been raised by such a remarkable woman.

A woman with long hair and a young girl with a ponytail, both smiling together.

Pickleball pro Judit Castillo with her mother and father in a city park, expressing gratitude for her mother's support.

Mary Brascia

My mom is the BEST! She is so supportive. There is a lot that goes on behind the scenes to make this pickleball career possible.

When it comes to booking flights, hotels, or even just a hug after a tough match, my mom is there for it all! She is a queen, and not to mention, she is pretty good at pickleball too — a great drilling partner. Love you, Mom!

Pickleball pro Mary Brascia and her mom posing together outdoors, celebrating their bond and love for pickleball.

A player celebrating with a trophy after winning a pickleball match.

Jade and Jackie Kawamoto

We are forever thankful for the love and strength our mom has given to our whole family. She has always been there for us no matter what and we are so proud to be her daughters.