Since earning a Selkirk Sparta contract at the first pickleball combine in fall 2025, pro Charlie Treviño has taken her game to new heights.
Known for her tactical game, Treviño has earned her first PPA Challenger Gold medal and competed around the globe. Ahead of the 2026 Spring Combine, Treviño shared her experiences and some tips for success.
The Combine experience
Looking back at the Combine, what was the most challenging part of the advanced performance testing? Why?
Although I loved the match play, one of the most interesting challenges was being mixed and matched with and against all kinds of players. Every round was different.
For me, the goal was to stay adaptable and perform at a high level no matter who was next to me or across the net. That meant adjusting communication, strategy, and tempo quickly. I saw it as a test of versatility more than anything, and that pushed me in a really positive way.
Was there a specific metric or piece of feedback from the Combine that surprised you about your own athleticism?
The reaction test really stood out to me. It showed me that while my court movement and endurance are strong, there’s another level I can reach with hand speed and hand-eye reaction. I love having something measurable to improve, and that test gave me clear direction on what to focus on next.
Why would you encourage other emerging pros to apply for future Sparta Combines?
This program is so much more than a sponsorship. It gives you real-life feedback, structure, and accountability. You’re not just being supported —m you’re being evaluated, developed, and challenged. It forces you to look honestly at your game and identify where you can grow. It also creates meaningful connections with other driven athletes and people who genuinely care about the future of the sport. That environment alone is powerful.
What is one piece of advice you’d give to an athlete who is currently grinding in the early draws and wants to reach the Sparta level of performance?
Remember that everyone at this level works hard and wants to be the best. Talent isn’t enough. You have to be willing to go the extra mile — especially when no one is watching.
I would suggest that you take your fitness seriously. Prioritize recovery. Protect your sleep. The margins are small at the top, and the athletes who treat their bodies like professionals are the ones who separate themselves.
Since the Combine, what has been your favorite or biggest achievement on the court?
Since the Combine, I was able to win silver in India at the World Pickleball League, earn a gold and a bronze at a PPA Challenger, and begin partnering with even stronger, higher-level players. For me, that progression has been the most exciting part, as the level of competition I’m surrounded by continues to rise.
Charlie's formula for success
You are often described as a tactical specialist. What is one unforced error or tactical mistake you see other pros make that you’ve trained yourself to exploit?
One mistake I see is players trying to rush neutral balls instead of recognizing where they’re uncomfortable. I pay close attention to weak spots that relieve pressure.
For example, if I notice someone struggles resetting out of the air in the transition zone, I’ll intentionally attack the body or jam that space to force uncomfortable contact. My goal isn’t just to hit hard; it’s to apply pressure in very specific areas that create indecision.
Your game relies on incredible placement and precision. How do you maintain your focus on hitting the right spots when the game speeds up and becomes chaotic?
For me, it starts with my feet. If my feet stop moving, my placement suffers. I focus on staying light and constantly adjusting so I can slide into the exact position I need for the shot I want to hit — especially for resets. Even when the pace speeds up, I try to simplify the moment — see the ball early, trust my preparation, and commit fully to the target. Precision under chaos comes from preparation and repetition.
For athletes just coming up the ranks, why is the Sparta program’s emphasis on professionalism just as important as the on-court drills?
At this level, your reputation travels faster than your ranking. The players you compete against today could be your partners tomorrow. How you communicate, how you carry yourself, and how you prepare is something that others see as well. The Sparta program reinforces that being a pro isn’t just about winning points; it’s about how you represent yourself and the sport.
You play pickleball all over the world. What’s your favorite part of traveling to play? How do you adjust your game style to different geographical play styles?
I love experiencing new cultures and seeing firsthand how quickly the game is growing globally. Every region brings something different, such as balls, temperature, court speeds, and even tactical tendencies.
Adapting is key. Hot conditions or faster balls might require softer hands and more shape on the ball. Slower conditions might allow for more aggression. But no matter where I am, I focus on staying flexible and keeping my feet moving. Movement solves a lot of my problems!
As someone who plays with finesse, what do you look for in your paddle setup?
I look for balance and consistency above all. I play with the SLK ERA Elongated, and I love how stable it feels while still giving me precision. The carbon face gives me great touch and ball feel, especially on resets and controlled speed-ups. I also customize my handle by removing the undergrip and adding two overgrips. I prefer a slightly smaller handle because it allows for quicker hand speed and more flexibility with grip changes.
Fast facts:
Short, fun answers only!
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Your "go-to" warm-up song: Work REMIX - A$AP Ferg
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Most surprising item in your bag: SOS Kit (grips, KTape, scissors, band aids, lip balm, Advil, electrolytes, tampons, etc.)
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Post-tournament cheat meal: Any and all Asian food possible
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Favorite recovery method: Stretching
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If you weren’t a pro pickleballer, what would your dream job be?: Something creative
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One word to describe the Sparta Program: Revolutionary
