Meet Andre Mercado: a rising star in pickleball and online education
Pickleball is more than just a growing sport; it’s a passion for 16-year-old Andre Mercado, the world’s leading 16U pro pickleball player. Based in Scottsdale, Arizona, Andre has taken the pickleball world by storm, signing a professional contract with the Professional Pickleball Association (PPA) and earning sponsorships from Proton Sports and Monster Athlete Juniors.
But Andre’s success isn’t limited to the court. As a junior at ASU Prep Digital, Andre is proving that it’s possible to excel both academically and athletically.
Balancing a pro pickleball career with online school
Andre’s journey in pickleball began in 2022 when he started playing with his father, Randall. What started as a fun activity quickly turned into a full-time commitment. Today, Andre trains up to nine hours a day and travels across the country for tournaments.
Thanks to the flexible online school model at ASU Prep Digital, Andre can balance his demanding training schedule with a college-preparatory education. His Learning Success Coach, Tracy Patrum, shared, “Andre has adapted remarkably to our online learning model! He is a dedicated student and he always gives his best to everything he does! He is able to exhibit excellent time management and makes classwork a priority to complete around his very busy schedule!”
A trailblazer in pickleball and education
Andre’s accomplishments are nothing short of extraordinary. At just 15, he became the youngest male player to win a PPA Pro Main Draw match and has made 13 PPA Pro Main Draw appearances. He’s also a two-time Junior National Champion and a member of the ASU Pickleball Club, where he competes on the DUPR Collegiate Pickleball Tour.
Through ASU Prep Digital, Andre is also earning college credits while still in high school, giving him a head start on his higher education journey. Patrum highlighted his thoughtful approach to academics, saying, “Andre is a very thoughtful planner! He is so wise in looking ahead to planning each semester’s courses carefully and in consideration of his travel schedule. ASU’s on-demand Universal Learner Courses have worked nicely for him to also take concurrent courses in addition to his high school classes.”
Andre is taking advantage of the opportunity to take concurrent courses while also completing his rigorous high school schedule! At his current pace, Andre will likely graduate with 25+ ASU credits, which sets him up so nicely to begin his college career with many standard freshman year college courses already completed!”
Inspiring the next generation of pickleball players
When he’s not training or studying, Andre gives back to the pickleball community by coaching juniors and players of all ages. His passion for the sport and dedication to helping others make him a role model for aspiring athletes.
Patrum also spoke to Andre’s character, saying, “In addition to both his athletic and academic success, he also is an exceptional person! He is consistently kind, respectful, motivated and determined.”
Why online school works for students seeking flexibility
Andre’s story highlights the benefits of online education for students who need flexibility, whether they’re pursuing athletic dreams, managing a busy schedule, or simply looking for a personalized learning experience.
The flexible schedule, rigorous curriculum and supportive environment at ASU Prep Digital make it possible for students like Andre—and others with unique goals or commitments—to achieve their dreams both in and out of the classroom.
Patrum summed it up perfectly: “ASU Prep Digital is such a tremendous school! For students like Andre in particular, our platform allows him to thrive academically while still pursuing his goals, meeting his demanding travel schedule and growing in his talent while at the same time preparing him for continued success in his college career!”
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