· By Bill Durham
Michael Cao
- Seasoned athlete and coach of several sports, whose passion for pickleball started in May 2020
- His love for the game has motivated him to train and/or coach every day to better himself and his players
- Has a strong background in tennis as a former Collegiate tennis player at Mary Washington College, and he has also played soccer and volleyball since childhood
- Certified tennis, soccer, and volleyball coach, and most recently became a Professional Pickleball Registry Certified Coach in July 2023
- Currently plays senior pro men's singles in major US tournaments along with doubles and mixed doubles at 4.5 and 5.0 levels, taking home numerous medals in those events
- Making his international debut at the Italian Open Pickleball Championships in Abruzzo, Italy (August 2023)