Laura DeCinque has played pickleball for over 10 years making the transition from tennis. Being a group exercise instructor at the YMCA in Lexington, Kentucky, Laura stumbled upon pickleball one day being played in the gym. She was given a paddle, encouraged to play, and instantly loved the game. Enjoying the play and people, Laura jumped in and got involved helping the city establish their first permanent courts as well as the Kentucky Pickleball Association club.

Laura has medaled in many tournaments, won states, and attended a national senior tournament in Alabama. She has been an instructor for 6 years teaching clinics and private lessons. She piloted the “newbie clinic” hosted by the WSPC each month to teach new players the game. She is certified by IPTPA and PPR.

In an effort to grow pickleball in Winston Salem, Laura has helped paint pickleball lines on existing tennis courts, helped establish the Winston Salem Pickleball Club, and introduced the app TeamReach used by all local players. She was also part of a small committee that worked with the city of Winston Salem and Forsyth County for the first permanent outdoor courts in the area. 

Laura enjoys all sports, hiking, disc golf, cooking and reading. She and her husband Jim have 2 grown sons.