⚾️ BORN TO COMPETE 🏓

Sam Orlansky: Like ever since, you know, ha that I got that surgery done and you know, them telling me like the doctors telling my parents that I was never gonna walk again and then like it kind of like motivated me a little bit. So you have an underdog mentality? A hundred percent. Yeah. Like I mean I just like I just want to make everybody around me happy. And I feel like for me, pickleball is like like really like lives on that. Like ever since, you know, ha that I got that surgery done and, you know, them telling me like the doctors telling my parents that I was never gonna walk again and then like it kind of like motivated me a little bit. You know, it kind of mentality? A hundred percent. Yeah. Like I mean I just like I just want to make everybody around me happy and I feel like for me, pickleball is like like really like lives on that. One of the things I love about pickleball is that everybody's fucking different. One of the things I love about pickleball is that everybody's fucking different. Different ages. Different ages, different races, different genders, different personalities, different backgrounds, different bodies, different abilities. You've got lifelong athletes playing next to people who found sports for the first time later in life. People with power, people with speed, people with great hands, people with patience, people with limitations. Different races, different genders, different personalities, different backgrounds, different bodies, different abilities. You've got lifelong athletes playing next to people who found sports for the first time later in life. People with power, people with speed, people with great hands, people with patience, people with limitations. And somehow. And somehow we can all step in the 44x20 rectangle and compete. Because you don't have to move the same. You don't have to look the same. You don't have to play the same. You figure out your game, your strengths, your strategy, your style, your swagger. And then you compete. Can all step in the 44X20 rectangle and compete. Because you don't have to move the same, you don't have to look the same, you don't have to play the same. You figure out your game, your strengths, your strategy, your style, your swagger. And then you compete. Because once the ball gets served. Because once the ball gets served, the court does not give a shit about assumptions that we make about each other. The game reveals the player. And today's guest is one hell of a fucking competitor. Here we go. The court does not give a shit about assumptions that we make about each other. The game reveals the player. And today's guest is one hell of a fucking competitor. Here we go! What up, what up, what up, pickleheads? What up, what up, what up, pickleheads? All right, welcome back to the pod, everybody. I'm super, super excited for today's guest. but before I introduce today's guest, I'm really, really excited to welcome back my guy, Mervin Quintana. Alright, welcome back to the pod everybody. I'm super, super excited for today's guest. but before I introduce today's guest, I'm really, really excited to welcome back my guy Mervyn Kintana. This guy earned himself a seat in the captain's chair. He's back. Let's go. @mervsportraits Just that This guy earned himself a seat in the captain's chair. He's back. Let's go. @mervsportraits That's right. So Merv you know today's guest yeah. Today I brought in somebody who moves a little bit differently. But if you've ever played against him, you probably remember something else. And that something else is that this motherfucker can play. Baller. So Merv, you know today's guest yeah. Today I brought in somebody who moves a little bit differently. But if you've ever played against him, you probably remember something else. And that something else is that this motherfucker can play. Baller. I'm super excited to bring into the studio Mr. Dylan Vaughn. I'm super excited to bring into the studio Mr. Dylan Vaughn! Let's go baby. Let's Let's go. Let's Let's go. Dylan, thanks so much for coming, man. I really appreciate you being here. Sam, you know what? I'm so happy to be here, honestly. Are you here to tell everybody how you've kicked my ass four fucking times? Is that what it is? No, but I mean if you're gonna say it, then I'm just gonna put it out there. That's what this whole show is all about, just the four and out thing. He's he's just he can't get over it. Well, he's got he's got he's got age on me, youth, exuberance. Dylan, thanks so much for coming, man. I really appreciate you being here. Sam, you know what? I'm so happy to be here, honestly. Are you here to tell everybody how you've kicked my ass four fucking times? Is that what it is? No, but I mean if you're gonna say it, then I'm just gonna put it out there. That's what this whole show is all about, just the four notes. He's he just can't get over it. Well, he's got he's got he's got age on me, youth, exuberance. handsomeness. Yeah, good. I don't know that I know if that helps on the pickleball court. Yeah, definitely not hand speed though. I mean dude, you you hit it pretty hard, man. There's a couple things that I remember when we from when we played together, but before we get into all that bullshit, yeah. I want to get to the good stuff. Yeah. So I'm not gonna dance around it, Dylan. you move differently. That's right. Tell us all about it. handsomeness. Yeah, I don't know that I don't know if that helps on the pick up. Definitely not hand speed though. I mean dude, you you hit it pretty hard, man. There's a couple things that I remember when we from when we played together, but before we get into all that bullshit, I want to get to the good stuff. Yeah. So I'm not gonna dance around it, Dylan. you move differently. That's right. Tell us all about it. Yeah, so for everybody who doesn't know who I am, I'm Dylan Vaughn. I was born with cerebral palsy. Yeah, so for everybody who doesn't know who I am, I'm Dylan Vaughn. I was born with cerebral palsy. like before I like when I was born, I was a surviving triplet. And my brother and my sister passed away before I was born. I survived though, surviving triplet, which is pretty awesome. I have always, you know, as you said, Sam, like like before I like when I was born I was a surviving triplet and my brother and my sister passed away before I was born. I survived though, surviving triplet, which is pretty awesome. I have always, you know, as you said, Sam, like moved a little differently because when I was born, I like my legs moved a little differently because when I was born, I like my legs were like out like this. were like out like this. And I got a surgery when I was six to try and fix it to try and walk a little bit better. And basically it what the doctors did is they like did like this whole like femur, like femoral rotation. So they moved my hip inward this way. And then so that's why when I walk, my right knee kind of moves in a little bit. And the the craziest part and I got a surgery when I was six to try and fix it to try and walk a little bit better. And basically what the doctors did is they like did like this whole like femur, like femoral rotation. So they moved my hip inward this way. And then so that's why when I walk my right knee kind of moves in a little bit. And the c the craziest part was right after the doctors told my parents that they were like, hey, like he's not gonna be able to walk again ever. was right after the doctors told my parents that, they were like, hey, like he's not gonna be able to walk again ever. wow. Yeah. Like he's never gonna be able to walk again. So w what does it mean for you physically day to day? wow. Yeah. Like he's never gonna be able to walk again. So what does it mean for you physically day to day? Like what does it mean for me to be doing all this awesome stuff, being able to, you know, say that I've played baseball in college Like what does it mean for me to be doing all this awesome stuff? Being able to, you know, say that I've played baseball in college and being a a pretty decent pickleball player on the court as well. and being a a pretty decent pickleball player on the court as well. And And it most notably comes at the beginning of matches because like, you know, in a tournament or in exhibitions, like people will see me and they'll be like, like, you know, we're gonna hit the ball to him. Big mistake. It most notably comes at the beginning of matches because like, you know, in a tournament or in exhibitions, like people will see me and they'll be like, like, you know, we're gonna hit the ball to him. Big mistake, man. Yeah. boy, is that a big mistake. Yeah. boy, is that a big mistake. because, you know, they everybody ha my whole entire life has kind of looked at me for what's on the outside instead of what's on the inside. because, you know, they everybody my whole entire life has kind of looked at me for what's on the outside instead of what's on the inside. when did you realize that people might look at you differently? When did you realize that people might look at you differently? I mean, it's been going on my whole entire life, but I think since high school was when I think during baseball, like freshman year, that's when people started to like really kind of look at me differently. Like once tryouts came, like I had a bunch of people saying, like, dude, like you're not gonna make the freshman team, like you're gonna get cut. I had a bunch of I mean, it's been going on my whole entire life, but I think since high school was when l I think during baseball, like freshman year, that's when people started to like really kind of look at me differently. Like once tryouts came, like I had a bunch of people saying, like, dude, like you're not gonna make the freshman team, like you're gonna get cut. I had a bunch of people telling me that who I thought I trusted and who were my friends. And so they were discouraging you? people telling me that who I thought I trusted and who were my friends. And so they were discouraging you? Yeah. Yeah. Like to my face. Like to my face. And instead of trying to lift you up. Exactly. Yeah. Exactly. And instead of trying to lift you up. Exactly. Yeah. Exactly. And you know what? Like, you know, you guys know me. Like you know I'm a very like positive person. And I love lifting people up. Like especially on the pickleball court. But like people have just been dragging me down for most of my life and it's a bummer. And you know what? Like, you know, you guys know me. Like you know I'm a very like positive person. Yeah and I love lifting people up. Like especially on the pickleball court. But like people have just been dragging me down for most of my life and it's a bummer. But you know, you gotta you gotta like choose your friends wisely. And so like as soon like as they kind of like tell you like bad bad stuff, you gotta just ignore it and you gotta choose better people to surround yourself with. And I've definitely done that. And just like throughout high school, like I found my crowd and I found But you know, you gotta you gotta like choose your friends wisely. And so like as soon like as they kind of like tell you like bad bad stuff, you gotta just ignore it and you gotta choose better people to surround yourself with. And I've definitely done that and just like throughout high school, like I found my crowd and I found Baseball baseball is like my true like calling card. Like that's always been my number one sport. is like my true like calling card. Like that's always been my number one sport. And And so just being able to it's been kind of my escape and so is pickleball now because I ended up injuring my arm so just being able to it's been kind of my escape. And so is pickleball now. Because I ended up injuring my arm, playing baseball in college. And then so I went to the doctor playing baseball in college. And then so I went to the doctor for it after I got a procedure done and he said pickleball is completely fine because it's not gonna like hurt your arm like as much. for it after I got a procedure done and he said pickleball is completely fine because it's not gonna like hurt your arm like as much. What about overheads? Overheads are no big deal. Okay. What about overheads? Overheads are no big deal. Okay. Your baseball career is over though? Yeah, my my baseball career is over like at least like for like professional. Like, you know, I've I was wanting to go pro, man. I mean So is is is your disability something that you're constantly aware of? yeah or is it something that's just your normal? And did I make a mistake by calling it a disability? No, no. I mean I mean, you know what? Like I think like disability is kind of what people perceive it to be. Your baseball career is over though for sure. Yeah, my my baseball career is over like at least like for like professional. Like, you know, I've I was wanting to go pro man. I mean So is is is your disability something that you're constantly aware of? or is it something that's just your normal? And did I make a mistake by calling it a disability? No no. I mean I mean, you know what? Like I think like disability is kind of what people perceive it to be. You know, like like like for me, like I don't see it as a disability. Well, I I saw you turn it into a superpower against me. Exactly. Like so I I think of it as like a superpower. Like I can do everything that the normal human being, a normal person can do, but better. Were you when you were growing up, did you ever feel like you like wished you could blend in? A little bit, yeah. I mean mainly during More like like like for me, like I don't see it as a disability. Well, I I saw you turn it into a superpower against me. Exactly. Like so I I think of it as like a superpower. Like I can do everything that the normal human being, normal person can do, but better. Were you when you were growing up, did you ever feel like you like wished you could blend in? A little bit, yeah. I mean mainly during middle middle school. school. It was kind of like a bending period. I mean 'cause like people like were So did I. I felt that way too. No, like like people would always like kind of like outcast me. You know, like when we're when we're playing like wiffle ball, like they would like have like just enough people and then they'd be like, like sorry dude. So like were you always like comfortable being yourself or is that something that you built up? It was kind of like the blending period. Yeah. 'Cause like people like were so that way too. No, like like people would always like kind of like outcast me. You know, like when we're when we're playing like wiffle ball, like they would like have like just enough people and then they'd like, like sorry dude. So like were you always like comfortable being yourself or is that something that you built up? I mean, no, I was I've always been comfortable being myself. I think I mean, no, I was I've always been comfortable being myself. I think Like ever since, you know, ha that I got that surgery done and you know, them telling me like the doctors telling my parents that I was never gonna walk again and then like it kind of like motivated me a little bit. So you have an underdog mentality? A hundred percent. Yeah. Like I mean I just like I just want to make everybody around me happy. And I feel like for me, pickleball is like like really like lives on that. Like ever since, you know, ha that I got that surgery done and, you know, them telling me like the doctors telling my parents that I was never gonna walk again and then like it kind of like motivated me a little bit. You know, it kind of mentality? A hundred percent. Yeah. Like I mean I just like I just want to make everybody around me happy and I feel like for me, pickleball is like like really like lives on that. You know, because I can like I can tow the court with somebody older than me, I can tow the court with somebody younger than me and still get along with them. You know, because I can like I can tow the court with somebody older than me, I can tow the court with somebody younger than me and still get along with them Did competition give you a place where you didn't have to think about being different? Like you were just another player just trying to win it? I mean, I feel like 'cause I have a really big competitive edge. I know it is very competitive. Did competition give you a place where you didn't have to think about being different? Like you were just another player just trying win it? I mean, I feel like 'cause I have a really big competitive edge. Like I'm very competitive. And I think when I'm in the heat of the moment, like I can just focus on that particular like I like I'm just focusing on that particular like sport or thing. Like so I'm like super locked in. Right. And I don't really pay attention to a lot of the outside noise around me in competition mode. And I think when I'm in the heat of the moment, like I can just focus on that particular like I like I'm just focusing on that particular like sport or thing. Like so I'm like super locked in. Right. And I don't really pay attention to a lot of the outside noise around me in competition mode. we could talk about that in a whole episode. Like I think that's a different one. It's all about focus and No th that's gonna be for like episode like eight. I'm gonna bring in everybody I know who has ADHD and then bring my therapist in. we could talk about that in a whole episode and like a hundred percent. I think that's a different one. It's all about focus and that's gonna be for like episode like eighty. I'm gonna bring in everybody I know who has ADHD and then bring my therapist in. Yeah. All right, so I just wanna know like I'm kinda confused because I I didn't know you were foreign. Like we Alright, so I just wanna know, like I'm kinda confused because I I didn't know you were foreign. Like What the fuck? What do you I told you I told you you can't get political on the show. What the fuck? I thought he was American. I told you you can't get political on the show. Okay. Cause you're four and against this guy, right? that's a good one. Why why why can't he beat you? Like, what's his problem? Like if you Alright Dylan, you're sitting in his spot right now, right? Alright. Why can't he why can't Sam beat you? Because he's just gotta get faster hands. Okay. Cause you're 4-0 against this guy, right? it's a good one. Why why why can't he beat you? Like, what's problem? Like, if you if you were to Alright, Dylan, you're sitting in his spot right now, right? Alright. Why can't he why can't Sam beat you? Because he's just gotta get faster hands. That's why? That's why? Yeah, that's why. I don't think that's why quicker, you gotta get quick on your feet, Sam. Yeah, that's why. I don't Sam. boy. We'll get into this a little bit more 'cause I have some other thoughts on that. boy. I I wanted to say something, I just think that you know, like every everybody who plays me for the first time, you know, for for your first time playing me, Sam, you're probably like, I'm gonna run over this kid. I had actually seen you before. We'll get into this a little bit more 'cause I have some other thoughts on that. boy. also I I wanted to say something, I just think that you know, like every everybody who plays me for the first time, you know, for for your first time playing me, Sam, you're probably like, I'm gonna run over this I had actually seen you before I played you for the first time. really? I I didn't I played you for the first time. This is This is news to me. news to me. It was actually at a Fairbanks Ranch tourney. I I I think I was playing four or I was playing three five, irregardless. You were playing the level above us. I was playing four mixed. I remember. So you saw me? I no, I don't remember seeing. is that the only time you played there? Is that the only time you played there or something? Yeah. I was just well anyway. You had just finished w winning a gold medal and I knew that you had played the level higher. And I watched you strutting your fucking ass all over Fairbanks and you had the gold medal on, and you're just like fucking beaming, swagger, and I'm looking at you like this. What the fuck am I looking at? Like that guy just got a gold medal in 4.5. Like, wow, that's amazing. You know, I remember that was my first thought. And So we want to know. Tell us a little bit about how Pickleball found you. Now, Merv, you asked all the questions after that. Merv, wake up. Can I can I answer that? Merv, wake up here. Hold hold on one second. So we wanna know. Tell us a little bit about how Pickleball found you. Now Merv, you asked all the questions after that. Merv, wake up. Can I can I answer that? Merv, wake up. Here, hold hold on one second. Are you aw are you awake now? Yeah, I'm not I'm awake now. Are you awake now? Alright, hold on. Welcome hey, welcome to the pod Merv All right, hold on. Welcome hey, welcome to the pod, right? So how did pickleball happen? Like, you walked into it? So how pickleball happened is I took a vacation with Go ahead, say something, Merv. So how did pickleball happen? Like did somebody introduce you into it? You walked into it? So how pickleball happened is I took a vacation with my family to Palm Springs and my my family to Palm Springs and my family friends were out there already playing and I had no idea what pickleball was at the time. How long ago was this? Twenty twenty. you've been playing for a while. no wonder. family friends were out there already playing and I had no idea what pickleball was at the time. How long ago was this? Twenty twenty. you playing for a while. I've been playing for a while. no wonder I wonder you're 0-4 against me, Sam. I I mean that's another reason. But But but anyways, I yeah, so my family friends were out there playing. And so my mom was like, Hey, like, you know, we should try playing it. I'm like, okay. And then tried it, and I was horrible, like, when I first started. And No wonder you're owing four against me, Sam. I mean that's another reason. But but any but but anyways, I yeah, so my family friends were out there playing. And so my mom was like, Hey, like, you know, we should try playing it. I'm like, okay. And then tried it, and I was horrible, like, when I first started. And I remember just like going to Barnes for like a little bit like like right after that vacation, like when I wasn't working there and I would play and I was just like playing with all like the old people and it was like a really slow game and I was really bad. How'd they treat you how did they treat you old people? I remember just like going to Barnes for like a little bit like like right after that vacation, like when I wasn't working there and I would play and I was just like playing with all like the old people and it was like a really slow game and I was really bad. How did they treat you? How did they treat you old people? Like now or when they No, in that first time. Yeah, first time. I mean th they were very welcoming to me. Like for the sport, which was great. Yeah. I I was so stoked about it. Shout out to the OGs for sure. Yeah, honestly. Shout out to all the Uncs Yeah, shout out to all my Uncs I I I gotta play their music. Hold on a second. Like now or when they No first time. Yeah, first time. I mean th they were very welcoming to me. Like for the sport, which was great. Yeah. I I was so stoked about it because they're shout out to the OGs for sure. Yeah, honestly, shout out to all the unks. Yeah, shout out to all the unks. I I gotta play their music. Hold on a second. That's for you, Dametime Okay. That's for you damn time. Okay. so so they kind of like brought me into their community. And just ever since then I I got addicted and then I just started playing more and I started playing on the advanced side, so that's like what, three point five to three point nine skill level so so they kind of like brought me into their community. And just ever since then I I got addicted and then I just started playing more and I started playing on the advanced side, so that's like what, three point five to three point nine skill level. and And I w I was still like driving a lot at this point. Like you know, like when you first start out you're just driving a ton. It feels good. It it feels really good, but like in the end, like like that's not that's not pickleball man. Yeah. You know. And then I started to I remember the first time I went on the Challenger courts at Barnes and you know, th those guys are those guys are good. And how did they receive you. I mean at first they were like, dude, like you gotta go back to the They said that to you straight up? I w I was still like driving a lot at this point. Like you know, like when you first start out, you're just driving a ton. It feels good. It it feels really good, but like in the end, like like that's not that's not pickable, man. Yeah. You know? And then I started to I remember the first time I went on the challenger courts at Barnes and you know, th those guys are those guys are good. And how'd they and how'd they receive you? I mean at first they were like, dude, like you gotta go back to the They said that to you straight up? Well, like I could just tell. Yeah, yeah. You can kind of tell in like their body language. People give you that vibe all the time. Yeah. Like peop people just have that kind of vibe. They're just like did you win? No, no, I I didn't win the first time. you know, so I've I lost. It was a good game. It was like eleven like seven and I lost. I was like, man. Well, like I could just tell. Yeah. You you can kinda tell in like their body language. People give you that vibe all the time. Yeah. Like peop people just have that kind of vibe. Yeah. They're like, dude, I want No, no, I I didn't win the first time. you know, so I I lost. It was a good game. It was like eleven like seven and I lost. I was like, man. Yeah, that that's why I gave you that. But then it kind of gave me that that drive a little bit. Like, yeah, like I wanna I wanna be here. Yeah. Be competitive. That's how is that what you got you into like being competitive? Yeah. Was there something about the size of the court that attracted you? I mean I just like from the very from the very start. Yeah. I mean like look, I I saw you cover quite a bit quite a bit of court. Yeah. Right? Like would you be able to cover that amount of court in tennis? I probably wouldn't either. Well, I actually play a lot of singles tennis. But then it kind of gave me that that drive a little bit. Like, yeah, like I wanna I wanna be here. Yeah. Be competitive. That's how is that what you got you into like being competitive? Yeah. Was there something about the size of the court that attracted you? I mean, I just like from the very from the very start. Like what do you I mean like look, I I saw you cover quite a bit quite a bit of court. Yeah. Right? Like, would you be able to cover that amount of court in tennis? I probably wouldn't either. Well, I actually play a lot of singles tennis. well fuck me. Actually? come on, man. Yeah, I I've I play singles tennis pretty pretty like frequently. So the sky's a limit for you. You don't see anything as a limitation. No, not really. Well, you know what the only limitation is in life, Sam? It's your mind. Your mental mental state, mental ability. Right? well. Actually? Actually. yeah, I I I play singles tennis pretty pretty like frequently. So the sky's a limit for you. You don't see anything as a limitation. No, not really. Well, you know what the only limitation is in life, Sam? It's your mind. Your mental mental state, mental ability. Right? I'm trying to tell myself that every day. you know. I'm trying to tell myself that every day. you know. and you make excuses when you start looking in the mirror at fifty, I'll tell you that. Yeah but you can't make excuses, You make excuses when you start looking in the mirror at fifty, I'll tell you that. Yeah, but you can't make excuses, man. No, I'm I'm actually in the best shape of my life. Dude, you you look like you're in the best shape of your life, man. No, I'm I'm actually in the best shape of my life. Dude, you you look like you're the best shape of your life, man. the comp You wanna show one, Merv? They're gonna arrest me. The bicep police. I You wanna show one birth? They're gonna arrest me for something The bicep police. I I don't think looking in I think looking in the mirror and like not seeing what you like has nothing to do with age, you know? I think it happens to just all of us. That's true. I don't think looking in I think looking in the mirror and like not seeing what you like has nothing to do with age, you know? I think it happens to just all of us. That's true. Mm-hmm. Like, I was three hundred and twelve pounds when I started playing pickleball, so were you really? Yeah. I mean I knew you were bigger. No, I was huge, Like I was three hundred and twelve pounds when I started playing pickleball, so Are were you really? Yeah. I mean I knew you were bigger. No, I was huge. man. you're gonna have to post a picture of that so I can put it into the podcast. I'll show I'll do a before. I'll send you a picture I'll send you my passport picture or something. you're gonna have post a picture of that so I can put it into the podcast. I'll show I'll do a before and after. I'll send you a picture I'll send you my password picture or something. The password is so bad. So like when do when did you realize like, shit, like I'm good at this game and I'm a picklehead? okay, so I have a story for you guys actually. So I don't know if you guys remember do you guys remember when they had those like So like when when did you realize like shit, like I'm good at this game and I'm a picklehead. okay, so I have a story for you guys actually. So I don't know if you guys remember do you guys remember when they had those like tournaments like and the winners would go to Xtapa, Mexico? Yeah. That's Renato's thing. Renato. Yeah. Renato's my guy. Yeah, mine too. Shout out Renato. tournaments like and the winners would go to Extapa, Mexico. Yeah. That's Renato's thing. Renato. Yeah, yeah. Renato's my guy. Yeah, mine too. Shout out Renato. Shout out Renato. but basically like when I learned that that was like kind of when I learned I was gonna be like pretty good at pickleball. I entered this tournament with this guy from Open Play. His name's Mario Castaneda. and Shout out Renato. but basically like when I learned that that was like kind of when I learned I was gonna be like pretty good at pickleball. I entered this tournament with this guy from Open Play, his name's Mario Castañeda. and like we had never played a tournament together before. It was our first time playing a tournament together. We went eight and and we won the entire tournament. What level? Like we had never played a tournament together before. It was our first time playing a tournament together. We went eight and and we won the entire tournament. What level? three five. But it was it was not three five. What year? It was twenty twenty three. Twenty twenty three, I think. And we ended up playing these two guys who were so good. Like they knew how to like drop and everything. Like like they were they were like back then, twenty twenty three, like three five. But it was it was not three five. What year? It was twenty twenty three. Twenty twenty three, I think. And we ended up playing these two guys who were so good. Like they knew how to like drop and everything. Like like they were they were like back then, twenty twenty three, like that's that's them being legit. Yeah. And and I just remember like dude, it was the craziest pickleball game that I've I've ever played and it was at night That's that's them being legit. Yeah. And Totally. And I just remember like, dude, it was the craziest pickleball game that I've I've ever played. And it was at night and it was like the championship game, winner goes to Ekstapa. We were down we were down ten eleven and they were on the two and like my So it was win by two. Okay. Yeah, it was win by two. And like my partner made like a like a diving stop and then I like and the ball like bounced the very And it was like the championship game, winner goes to a Gstapa. We were down we were down ten eleven and they were on the two and like my partner. Okay. Yeah, it was one by two. And like my partner made like a like a diving stop and then I like and the ball like bounced the very edge of the of the court and they and they called it good and then we got the ball back and then we scored two points and we edge of the of the court and they and they called it good and then we got the ball back and then we scored two points and we we won the trip and I remember like We won the trip. And I remember like Is that how felt? Yeah, yeah, that's literally how I felt. And the thing is, is like I just remember I was serving and it was 12-11-2 So if we get this next point, then we we win the trip. And I'm serving and I'm so nervous. And I I get like these like butterflies around me, and I'm like, whoa, like I've never had like a feeling like this before. And then so I serve the ball, they hit it at me, and I Is that how you felt? That's literally how I felt. And the thing is, is like I just remember I was serving and it was 12112. So if we get this next point, then we we win the trip. And I'm serving and I'm so nervous. And I I get like these like butterflies around me, and I'm like, whoa, like I've never had like a feeling like this before. And then so I serve the ball, they hit it at me, and I And I'm on the right side and I drive it to the right and the guy like hits it in the net and we just go And I'm on the right side and I drive it to the right and the guy like hits it in the net and we just go can talk during these sounds. sweet. I I've given up on And you I I've given up on that Carry on. But so right when I right when the ball goes in the net, And so like there was people everywhere, like along the court, and they were carry on. But so right when I right when the ball goes in the net And so like there was people everywhere, like along the court, and they were they were just screaming, and me and my partner just like, yeah, like They were just screaming. And me and my partner just like, yeah, like we get like super fired up and like we we embrace. And and I I just remember like the feeling that came across me. Like it was it was like very like like I feel like I was out of my body. Yeah. Like I was just so pumped. I was so fired up. And that's the moment you knew you were a picklehead? That's the moment where I knew that I was that I was somewhat get like super fired up and like we we embrace and and I've I just remember like the feeling that came across me. Like it was it was like very like like I feel like I was out of my body. Yeah. Like I was just so pumped. I was so fired up. And that's the moment you knew you were a picklehead? That's the moment where I knew that I was that I was somewhat good at pickleball. I knew that it was gonna be like a turning point for me. That was my real turning point. good at pickleball. I knew that it was gonna be like a turning point for me. That was my real turning point for pickleball. And that high lasted for like weeks, right? Yeah yeah. Like that I actually kinda I actually a little bit have the chills from the story, I'm not gonna lie. And and the thing is is like I forgot to mention in the story actually, I called a timeout 'cause we had one timeout and I called it at ten eleven. Like 'cause we we were so we were so tired, dude. Like And that high lasted for like weeks, right? Yeah, yeah. I I actually kinda I actually a little bit have the chills from the story, I'm not gonna lie. And and the thing is is like I forgot to mention in the story actually, I called a timeout because we had one timeout and I called it at ten eleven. Like so we were so tired, dude. Like Dude, Merv, how many times have you been on the other side of that shit? Dude, Mary, how many times have you been on the other side of that shit? too many to come. I've been on the other side of that shit. No, we're the one where everybody's watching, but the other team is hugging at the end. Yeah. I just been on the other side of the I've been on the other side of that shit so many times. I just knew that it was that it was like a big prize. Like, it's a trip to New Mexico. Like I I had to come back How was the trip? my gosh. The trip was I've been on the other side of that shit. Like everybody's walking every the one no or the one where everybody's watching, but the other team is hugging at the end. Yeah. Yeah. I've been on the other side. I've been on the other side of that shit so many times. I just knew that it was that it was like a big prize. Like it's a trip to Mexico. Like I I had to have How was the trip? my gosh. The trip was was was really eye opening for me because it was funny because I stayed in the same room as my my partner and like was was really eye opening for me because it was funny because I stayed in the same room as my my partner and like we were supposed to like stay in like separate rooms but I was like nah, We were supposed to like stay in like separate rooms, but I was like, nah, like like Like we so you're walking around Mexico with all the people from the tournament too. yeah. Wait, so you're walking around Mexico with all the people from the tournament too. yeah. So you're you're a king. And and it's with all of my friends from Barnes too. Cause like we we had all won the tournament together. So I knew everybody there already. And right when we get to Mexico, we go straight down like we drop our stuff off and it's like ten PM and we go and get our we go and get our pickleball stuff, run down to the pickleball courts, play until three in the morning. So you're you're a king. And and it's with all of my friends from Barnes too, 'cause like we we had all won the tournament together. So I knew everybody there already. And right when we get to Mexico, we go straight down like we drop our stuff off and it's like ten PM and we go and get our we go and get our pickleball stuff, run down to the pickleball courts, play until three in the morning. And we have a I love Mexico. And and you know what? I've played a men's match And we have a and you know what? I played a men's match at nine AM the next day. And we ended up getting second. And you're not sore? No. I mean there's a lot of adrenaline from the trip, so Yeah. A lot of adrenaline. Still I have like at nine AM the next day. And we ended up getting second. And you're not sore? No. I mean, there's a lot of adrenaline from the trip, so Yeah. A lot of adrenaline. Still I so this is kind of important background Dylan, he wasn't just someone who casually played baseball, Merv. This guy could fucking pitch so this is kind of important background Dylan, he wasn't just someone who casually played baseball on earth. This guy could fucking pitch In his senior year at Point Lomo High School, Ten appearances, In his senior year at Point Loma High School, Ten appearances. eighteen and a third innings, thirteen strikeouts, zero walks, one point five three ERA, and he had opponents that hit approximately one sixty-four. That's right. One point five three ERA is insane, bro. Dude, it's the zero walks. It's the zero walks. Zero walks. That's what stands out to me the most. I would get hit on purpose on that. 18 and the third innings, 13 strikeouts, zero walks, one point five three ERA, and he had opponents that hit approximately one sixty-four. That's right. One point five three ERA is insane, bro. Dude, it's the zero walks. It's the zero walks. The zero walks. That's what stands out to me the most. I would I would get hit on purpose, honestly. You sound like a heck of a ball player, that's who I am on the courts too, You sound like you sound like a heck of a ball player, that's how I am on the courts too. but Hey well you guys know what though. The thing is is like I've like my parents have always especially my dad. My dad's been like my biggest inspiration with baseball and he's always harped on like, you know, do not walk anybody because that's Zero Walks. So this is what it tells me about this is what Zero Walks tells me about you. Hey well you guys know what though, the thing is is like I've like my parents have always especially my dad, my dad's been like my biggest inspiration with baseball. And he's always harped on like, you know, do not walk anybody because that's a free base. Zero walks. So this is what it tells me about. This is what Zero Walks tells me about you. And I think it fits. Control. Focus. And I think it fits. Control, focus, attacking of hitters. Yes. Mental discipline. Competitiveness. yeah. So your coach, I read this in the I read attacking of hitters. Yes. Mental discipline. Competitiveness. yeah. So your coach, I read this in the I read this article about you. He said that you had a mental makeup and a competitive spirit that is off the chart. this article about you, he said that you had a mental makeup and a competitive spirit that is off the chart. So how much of that pitcher is standing on the pickleball court today? man, a lot. Yeah. A lot. honestly, baseball gave me my competitiveness. So how much of that pitcher is standing on the pickleball court today? man, a lot. Yeah. A lot. honestly, baseball gave me my competitiveness. Like it it was I was very competitive as a baseball player and I still am 'cause I I still do play baseball, but not at like a super competitive level. I just play with a rec team on Saturdays, but like when I'm on that mound, Sam and Merv, I just turn into a different person. Like it it was I was very competitive as a baseball player and I still am 'cause I I still do play baseball but not at like a super competitive level. I just play with a rec team on Saturdays, but like when I'm on that mound, Sam and Merv, I just turn into a different person. Like I I'm you know, like Like I I'm you know, like when I'm off the baseball field or off the pickleball court, I'm just, you know, a super nice, humble, great person. But when I get on that mound, I'm angry, I will talk a lot of shit, like I will get in your face. Yeah. Like I I just how similar is the mound to the serve? very similar. But I feel like when I'm off the baseball field or off the pickleball court, I'm just, you know, a super nice, humble, great person. But when I get on that mound, I'm angry, I will talk a lot of shit, like I will get in your face. Yeah. Like, how sim and how similar is the mound to the serve? very similar. But I feel like With baseball, 'cause I've been just doing it for longer than I've been playing pickleball. It's just kind of different. You know? Yeah. So I was gonna ask you this, but I'm actually gonna tell you. What transferred from baseball? So I'll tell you the first things that I saw that transferred from baseball. And I and I didn't know that you had plays played baseball until I like looked you up. And I was like, okay, some of this stuff makes sense. the serve, the way you kind of set. With baseball 'cause I've been just doing it for longer than I've been playing pickleball. It's just kind of different, you know? Yeah. So I was gonna ask you this, but I'm actually gonna tell you. What transferred from baseball? So I'll tell you the first thing that I saw the transfer from baseball. And I and I didn't know that you had plays played baseball until I like looked you up. And I was like, okay, some of this stuff makes sense. the serve, the way you kinda set. Right when you're gonna serve and you kinda you almost wind up like you you coil like a pitcher. Which in it and it's i it it comes at you fast in sort of a unique sort of baseball way. So that's the first thing that I noticed. The second one is is much better of a story. So lay it on me. The so I looked up the first time that I faced you, I think was in two thousand twenty four. So it's been almost two years. I think it was do you remember if my partner was Right, when you're disturbing you kinda you almost wind up like coil. You you coil like a pitcher. Which in it and it's it it it comes at you fast in sort of a unique sort of baseball way. So that's the first thing that I noticed. The second one is is much better of a story. So I had on me. The so I looked it up. The first time that I faced you, I think was in two thousand twenty four. So it's been almost two years. I think it was do you remember if my partner was a guy named Colton? A guy named Colton. Do you I don't remember your partner. Okay, 'cause I don't know who the hell your partner was. I don't know who the hell your partner was. I know who the hell your partner was, but I remember you. Yeah. So we we got wiped out in the first game. I think it was a very competitive game. I was playing with my guy Kenny Leung who's a ninja athlete. So I don't remember the first game, but I remember the second game 'cause we we squared off the third place and I don't remember your partner. Okay, 'cause I don't know who the hell your partner I don't know who the hell your partner was. I don't know who the hell your partner was, but I remember you. Yeah. So we we got wiped out in the first game. I think it was a very competitive game. I was playing with my guy Kenny Leoung, who's a ninja athlete. So I don't remember the first game, but I remember the second game 'cause we we squared off with third place and you know both both you your team and my team had just got wiped out for the medal. So, you know, you you were coming in a little bit fiery. And you started off like hot against us. I think you got up to like nine four or eight four or something like that. And we were coming for you and you started to make a couple mistakes. And I remember you grabbed the ball from the back fence and it was you had to give it back to me and you fucking hurled this ball you know, both both y your team and my team had just got wiped out for the medal. So, you know, you're you were coming in a little bit fiery. And you started off like hot against us. I think you got up to like nine four or eight four or something like that. And we were coming for you and you started to make a couple of mistakes. And I remember you grabbed the ball from the back fence and it was you had to give it back to me and you fucking hurled this ball And hit the other side of the fence that like in my mind it was like 60 miles an hour. Dude, I remember because I was really mad. Yeah. And I kind of just did like one of these like Olays and like was like, okay, social warfare is on. Let's go. And Kenny Kenny turned to me, and I give signals. Kenny goes like hit it to you. He's like, do it for the camera. It was so funny, like a cartoon character. And hit the other side of the fence that like in my mind it was like 60 miles an hour. Dude, I remember because I was really mad. Yeah, so Mr. Craig. And I kind of just did like one of these like Olays and like was like, okay, social warfare is on. Let's go. And Kenny Kenny turned to me and all you give signals. Kenny goes like this. Like hit it to you. He's like, I'm doing for the camera. It was so funny, like a cartoon character. And we came for you, we came for you, and I think we ended up losing eleven nine or eleven eight or somewhere. It was close. It was very close. It was very close. And we came for you, we came for you, and I think we ended up losing eleven nine or eleven eight or somewhere. It was close. It was very close. It was very close. That was probably my best shot, I think. With it depend you know, it's a two person game. And then it just went downhill from there, huh? Well, no, I wouldn't say downhill. I had a fabulous, very athletic, twenty something year old looking Ernie on you in the last time I remember. Yeah. It wasn't on you, it was on your partner. That wasn't that my that wasn't my finest moment though. It wasn't on you, it was on your partner. That was probably w my best shot, I think. With it depend you know it's a two person game. And then it just went downhill from there, huh? Well, no, I wouldn't say downhill. I had a fabulous, very athletic, twenty something year old looking Ernie on you in the last time I remember. Yeah. It wasn't on you, it was on your partner. That wasn't that wasn't my that wasn't my finest moment though I it wasn't on you, it was on your partner. I hit a I hit a I hit a drop shot to the left hand side and she kinda took her head she put her head down and I came flying over. I hit a I hit a I hit a drop shot to the left hand side and she kinda took her head she put her head down and I came flying over. I was going I was going for her the entire time. I it's mixed. Bro, it's mixed. I'm standing away from Sam, are you kidding me? Bro, it's mixed. No, actually I see I wasn't I well, we'll talk this through. I wasn't I was going I was going for her the entire time. I like, I'm I'm dude, I'm staying away from Sam, are you kidding me? Bro, it's mixed. No, actually I see I wasn't I well, we'll talk this through. I wasn't Avoiding you at all, actually. In fact, I You were coming at me and it was kinda surprising me. I was coming at you and I had a whole strategy to lob you like aggressively. I I do remember that it was me getting lobbed 'cause then Brie had to go back and get the ball majority of the time. I lost over my I lob more now. That's my favorite shot. jeez. Shout out Adam. He's he's probably used to that already, right? Yeah. I'm used to being lobbed. Yeah. Avoiding you at all, actually. In fact, You were coming at me and it was kind of surprising me. I was coming at you and I had a whole strategy to lob you like aggressively. I I do remember that it was me getting lobbed in time because then Bree had to go back and get the ball a majority of the time. I lob more now. That's my favorite shot. jeez. Shout out Adam. So do you do good on a lob? Yeah, I do better on a lob now. Can you tweener? A little bit. You can you? But have you made have you made a tweener in game? No. Okay. I've tried, but not. Yeah, yeah, yeah. I yeah, we all can try. But the thing is, Sam's like, you know what? Like, I've been getting a little bit better at lobs because So it's okay. Do you do good on a lob? Yeah, I better on a lob now. Can you tweener? A little bit. You can you? But normally, like I I'm people forget that I'm fast, man. Have you made a tweener in game? No. Okay. I've tried, but no. It just goes in. It goes into the bottom of the net. I mean, yeah. But but the thing is, Sam, is like, you know what? Like, I've been getting a little bit better at lobs because If it I just remember, like I kind of repeat to myself. If it's over my head, then it's my partners, and if it's over my partners, then it's my ball. If it I just remember like I kind of repeat to myself, if it's over my head, then it's my partners, and if it's over my partners, then it's my ball. Alright, Merv Let's go. You got some questions for this guy or what? I just I can't get over the fact that you lost, man. That many times. Wait, I have a question. I'm gonna call you Owen. I have a question. What's your tournament record against me? Owen? Owen. I played this guy when I was 3.0 Owen. Okay. When you when you were what? When I was three Like I had just started. I signed up for a three O tournament. Alright Merv. Let's go. Alright. You got some questions for this guy or what I do. I just I can't get over the fact that you lost that many times. Wait, I have a question. I'm gonna call you Owen. I have a question. What's your tournament record against me? Owen? Owen I played this guy when I was three. When you when you were what? When I was three Like I had just started I signed up for a 3.0 tournament. This This dude signed up for a 4.0 tournament. Somehow we played together. But yeah, how did how did you play against Sam when you were 3.0 That's how it works. That's how the ball bounces, yo. dude signed up for a four tournament. Somehow we played together. But yeah, how did how did you play against Sam when you were three out? That's how it works. That's how the ball bounces, yo. The Okay, let me ask you this. Do I do anything that gives you trouble? yeah. I mean honestly, you're I would say you're like just because you're just like moving around. Like when I'm like trying to hit a dink like I just see you like moving around like for an like you're trying to like go for an Ernie in my peripheral and I'm like, dude, I'm not hitting it to you. can Okay. Let me ask you this. Do I do anything that gives you trouble? yeah. I mean honestly, you're I would say you're like just 'cause you're just like moving around. Like when I'm like trying to hit a dank, like I just see you like moving around like for an like you're trying to like go for an Ernie in my peripheral and I'm like, dude, I'm not hitting it to you. yeah. Yeah. yeah, yeah. Okay, okay, well okay, you know what, Merv? Okay, let me let me say something though. I do think I'm better, but it all kind of depends on my partner. yeah, I have a question about your partners. You both sound quite committed to your partners where I am l a little bit more polyamorous in my pickleball lifestyle. Like I I'll like I said, like I like to play with lots of like I have I've played tournaments with over ten people for sure. yeah, yeah. That that Okay, okay, well Okay, you know what, Merv? Okay, let me let me say something though. I do think I'm better, but it all kind of depends on my partner. yeah, I have a question about your partners. You both sound quite committed to your partners where I am a little bit more polyamorous in my pickleball lifestyle. Like I like I said, like I like to play with lots of like I have I've played tournaments with over ten people for sure. Maybe over fifteen. Maybe over fifteen. Yeah, you gu you guys are so attached. Okay, well what's up with that? Okay, well the reason why I'm attached to my partners is because, you know, if you have a good rapport with your partner and if you win medals, it's like why would you go away from that partner and try and go find somebody else, you know? And it's the chemistry and Yeah, it's all about chemistry. Outside pickleball too, you know what I mean? Like my rule is kind of like, you know, if you get like above fifth place, I think they deserve another shot. And you know what? Like, you know, they could be having a bad day. Yeah, you guys are so attached. Okay, well what's up with that? Okay, well the reason why I'm attached to my partners is because, you know, if you have a good rapport with your partner and if you win medals, it's like why would you go away from that partner and try and go find somebody else, you know? And it's a chemistry and Yeah, it's all about chemistry. Outside pickleball too, you know what I mean? Like my rule is kind of like, you know, if you get like above fifth place, I think they deserve another shot. And you know what? Like, you know, they could be having a bad day. Yeah. Yeah. See, not for me. I I don't feel that way at all. It's all about chemistry. Like any tournament, anything can happen. I play with my guy Rob Gamboa, in Coronado, and we played a tournament where we went, I think 0-9!? See, not for me. I I don't feel that way at all. It's all about chemistry. Like any tournament anything can happen. I play with my guy Rob Gamboa, in Coronado and we play the tournament where we went I think for nine? And we got pickled twice. And we play together all the time. And we've played again and we've won. We've won together. And we got pickled twice. And we play together all the time. And we've played again and we've won. We've won together. You got wait, you got pickled twice? Twice. my gosh. You got wait, you got pickled twice or twice. my gosh. Yeah. So anytime you you sign up for a tournament and you see Sam's name, is it like automatic win right? Yeah, so anytime you you sign up for a tournament and you see Sam's name is a like automatic win, right? He agrees. Well I I just I know I know it's gonna be a challenge, but in the end I know I'm gonna prevail. You know? I know I'm gonna prevail. See that that's I mean you sound awfully confident we're gonna have to set up a match now after this with multiple partners. He agrees. Well, I just I know I know it's gonna be a challenge, but in the end I know I'm gonna prevail. You know? I know I'm gonna prevail. See that that's I mean, you sound awfully confident. We're gonna have to set up a match now after this with multiple partners. Yeah, for sure. Yeah, for sure. it's on we're on time, right? Merv let's talk about confidence and swagger. Merv, let's talk about confidence and swagger. It's not just how Dylan moves or how he moves. There's confidence and there's swagger. He doesn't walk onto the court looking uncomfortable being Dylan at all. Dylan. Yeah. What is the difference between confidence and swagger? It's not just how Dylan moves or how he moves. There's confidence and there's swagger. He doesn't walk onto the court looking uncomfortable being Dylan at all. Dylan, yeah. What is the difference between confidence and swagger? I would say confidence is walking onto the court knowing that you have a purpose, knowing that you have a goal in mind. I would say confidence is walking onto the court knowing that you have a purpose, knowing that you have a goal in mind. And swagger is kind of like acting the part. W would you say that's a good answer? Well, I I would I would say like like more smaggers. Like you can see it like oozing it out of people. Like confidence, like you can see it too. But like with swagger, it's like Swagger is kind of like acting the part. Okay. W would you say that's Yeah, I think I have a lot of swag. Well I I would say like like more swagger. Like oozing out of people. Like confidence, like you can see it too, but like with swagger, it's like it's like it's like borderline unacceptable, you know what I mean? Where where d where does it confident comfort? What do you think about It's like it's like borderline unacceptable, you know what I mean? Where where d where does the confident come from? What do you what do you think about someone Okay, okay, well okay, well Sam you don't do it like you probably I okay. Well I am gonna say that like I do know the reason why you have it and I like At this point all the listeners do too, so we can talk about it. they do? Well Well that yeah, we're on episode five. Well yeah, that's right. Dude, w what what am I saying? But dude, honestly, like I like who wears a mouthpiece for swag? Okay, okay, we'll okay, well Sammy, you don't do it like you probably okay. Well, I am gonna say that like I do know the reason why you have it and I like At this point all the listeners do too, so we could talk about it. they do? Well Well that yeah, we're on episode five. Well that's right. Dude, w what am I saying? But dude, honestly, like I like I applaud you for like everything that like I applaud you for like everything that like like playing wise that like you you know you kinda have it to like it's kind of like a fidget thing, right? Like playing wise that like you you know, you kinda have it like it's kind of like a fidget thing, right? I have definitely been encouraged by people like you who tell me afterwards that it gasses them up so much. it definitely is a distraction to other people. Like It was a distraction to me. I have definitely been encouraged by people like you who tell me afterwards that it gasses them up so much. it definitely is a distraction to other people. Like It was a distraction to me. Not enough of a distraction. Not enough. Not enough of a distraction, but it has been a distraction to to others. It just like kind of makes you wonder, you know. Not enough of a distraction. Not enough. Not enough of a distraction. But it has been a distraction to to others. It just like kinda makes you wonder, you know? But like when you're when you're like opposing from you, it like kind of makes you like, hmm, like why is he? Well, aren't you wondering about every person that you face? Of course. Not like that though. No, no. Yeah, not everybody's unique. Yeah. Everybody's different. Everybody's unique. But I mean, that's part of my swagger, But like when you're when you're like opposing from you it like kinda makes you like why is he wondering? Aren't you wondering about every person that you face? Of course. Not like that though. No, no. Yeah, not not like that. Everybody's unique. Yeah. Everybody's different. Everybody's unique. But I mean that's part of my swagger, Let me let me ask you this, Dylan. Do people ever mistake your confidence for arrogance? yeah. All the time. Let me let me ask you this, Dylan. Do people ever mistake your confidence for arrogance? yeah. All the time. in tournaments mostly. you know, there have been people that have been getting into jawing matches with me for no reason and I'm just like, dude, like what's this guy's problem? Well probably 'cause you're throwing the ball sixty miles an hour across the net. Well yeah, but like but like it's just like that's just competitiveness. Like I just get really frustrated when I don't hit a shot. in tournaments mostly. you know, there have been people that have been getting into drawing matches with me for no reason and I'm just like, dude, like what's this guy's problem? Well probably 'cause you're throwing the ball sixty miles an hour across the net. Well yeah, like like it's just like that's just competitiveness. Like I just get really frustrated when I don't hit a shot. So w where I where I miss a big point. It's like it's for me, I I've never I was I've never competed before I played pickleball. So w where I where I miss a big point and it's like it's for me, I I've never I've I've never competed before I played pickleball. So when I saw that, I was like, Whoa. But like I d I just didn't want it to be like all like this kid's, you know, a bitch, you know, for doing that. Like No. Nah, I'm not in that. I th I saw fire. I just did it because I was fired up, man. Yeah, yeah. Well, you I you actually overcame it because you won and pulled it together. And then afterwards you were super cool, So when I saw that, I was like, Whoa. But like I d I just didn't want it to be like all like this kid's, you know, a bitch, you know, for doing that. Like I just nah, nah, no. Like I saw fire. I just did it because I was fired up, man. Yeah. Well you I you actually overcame it because you won and pulled it together. And then afterwards you were super. Cool, so that's all that mattered. Exactly. Yeah. Exactly. so that's all that matters, right? Like if you body bag somebody and then afterwards you come off, you're cool. It's yeah. Exactly. And No, I mean throwing the ball, it's not even bad, but I've I'd snap paddles and throw throw my paddle mean throwing the ball it's not even bad man. Like I've snapped paddles and thrown thrown my paddle a lot. You snap paddles? Yeah. I've never snapped a paddle before. I I don't I don't think I could, honestly. I'm trying really hard not to throw my paddle. My dad told me that if I ever throw my paddle, that he will come to the court and personally remove me. And that's not the type of guy or player You snap paddles? Yeah. I've never snapped a paddle before. I I don't I don't think I could, honestly. I'm trying really hard not to throw my paddle. My dad told me that if I ever throw my paddle, that he will come to the court and personally remove me. And that's not the type of guy or player or example that I should be to my young daughters. So I'm really trying hard not to throw my paddle. or example that I should be to my young daughters. So I'm really trying hard not to throw my paddle. I had a couple weak stretches, especially in singles. I almost launched my paddle into the middle of the park. I had a couple week stretches, especially in singles. I almost launched my paddle into the middle of the park. Also before before we end the podcast, like I said in the beginning, if there's anybody out there who's around a mi four five women's player and who wants to be my mixed doubles partner, do Also before before we end the podcast, like I said in the beginning, if there's anybody out there who's around a mi four five women's player and who wants to be my next doubles partner. you have any really appreciated Do you have any qualifications? Do you have any like height and weight qualifications? I have a lot of qualifications for that. Okay, well hold on, let me turn this down a little bit. I really appreciate it. Do you have any qualifications? Do you have any like height and weight qualifications? I have a lot of qualifications for that. Okay, hold on, let me turn this down a bit. Well like do they have to be able to play right side, left side? Honestly, I'd rather have them play the left side 'cause I'm a better right side player. So if you can be confident, take the left side for me, that's another problem that you won't have to worry about. Well like do they have to be able to play right side, left side? Honestly, I'd rather have them play the left side because I'm a better right side player. So if you can be confident, take the left side for me, that's another problem that you won't have to worry about. I could get a a new mix partner from this. You know, you never know. Dylan, you wanna be Dylan's mix partner, in my opinion. I've seen him play in mixed and he's a dog and for me, your signature shot on the right hand side is the Bulgarian backhand, which is that. could get a a new mix partner from this. You never know. Dylan, you wanna be Dylan's mix partner, in my opinion. I've seen him play in mixed and he's a dog and for me, your signature shot on the right hand side is the Bulgarian backhand, which is that the the inward punch. Yeah, to me that felt like that feels like a baseball play, like like you're going to The the inward punch. Yeah, to me that felt like that feels like a baseball play, like like you're going to butt like if like you're gonna catch the ball but opposite hand. Mm-hmm. Like if like you're gonna catch the ball but opposite hand. Mm-hmm. It just like feels more normal for me to like it's just like feels more normal for me to like it's just like quick reaction. What's your grip? Is your grip like normal? I'm I'm like just just I wish I had a paddled. Here you go. It's just like quick reaction. What's your grip? Is your grip like normal? Yeah, no, I'm I'm like just just wish I'd have paddled with me. Here we go. So so normally I'm I'm here, right? And then what I'll do is I'll just So so normally I'm I'm here, right? And then what I'll do is I'll just is I'll just flick my So you're a windshield So you're a windshield wiper. Yeah, just windship. wiper. Yeah. Are you at that that way at the net always or is it just sometimes? Like I'm I'm just like ready like this, and then when a backhand comes, I'm here. So you do you think that people see you differently after they've played you? I would say so. Yeah. Because you know, when people see me right when I first play them, they're like, like we're gonna stomp this kid, and then after I beat him. Then they're like, like maybe we shouldn't have gone to this kid. I mean, I certainly I certainly did. Yeah. I saw you a lot differently. you know, like I'm always gonna be nice off the court. I think that that's the biggest thing here, you know. Like I I always wanna be a nice person off the court because I don't want people to like, you know, even if you do think I'm an asshole like on the court, like off the court, I want you to perceive the opposite. Yeah, because you're like a good, normal, functioning human being. mean? All right, Merv Let's do rapid fire questions. Here. Rapid fire questions. Here we go. Rapid fire. ATP or a strikeout? A T P. Baseball or a pickleball? Pickleball. Pitching or firefight? Itching. Singles or doubles? Doubles. Drive or drop? Drop. Forehand or backhand? Backhand. Favorite shot? The backhand punch, baby. Worst shot. Bulgarian backhand. Bulgarian backhand. Worst shot. probably my forehand drive. Ooh. Forehand drive? I think that's my worst shot, yeah. Really? Yeah. I know I mishit it sometimes and it goes out. All right. Your dream doubles partner. Alex Walker. Alex Walker. my gosh. Alex Walker. From Orlando Squeeze. Hit me up. You know who you are? All right, favorite person to be. Owen. Is it Owen over here? Owen. Mr. Owen Four. That just means you like playing with me. Yeah. You're not my hey, just so you know, you're not my favorite person to beat. Haven't done it yet. Not yet. We'll have to set up a game. All right. Who's more competitive? Dylan or Sam? That's a hundred percent sure. Who's winning match number five? I think me, but it's close. anything can happen in the 44X20 baby. Zero zero two. Would you ever partner would you ever partner up with Sam and wear a mouthpiece? Dude, one hundred percent. Yeah. yeah. I got new fan. I got a new fan. No fanboy. I got one final question. Awesome. Is Sam ever beating you? Never say never, dude. that dude, I I know. I I think he'll get me once or twice. Sam's gonna beat you. Honestly, I think he'll beat me once or twice, but I think will I still have the edge? Don't forget, Sam's a lot more flexible than he was in two thousand twenty four. He's a lot more mentally strong than he was in two thousand twenty four. And he can drop now. boy. It's pickleball too, you Yeah, Ickleball. I I think you'll get me once or twice, but I think I'll still have the overall edge on you. It all depends on the partner. If I lose I'm just gonna blame it on my partner. Can you play that that sappy? I'm looking for a mix partner. Ugh. So pull the microphone up higher. Sneak right into it. If you wanna be my mix partner, you know where to find me. Alex Walker at Barnes Tennis Center. Alex Walker, I'm talking to you. Anybody. Anybody, honestly. I mean just come to Barnes Tennis Center. I think she's Dylan. I think she should be over eighteen, Dylan. Gotta be over 18. He will he will take you out for dinner, buy you flowers. Well, maybe it depends on how the tournament gets. Find me at Barnes Tennis Center. He's gonna be wearing his war face paint for you two and everything. One hundred percent. Yeah, Merv you know that. You know me, Merv All right, Dylan. When somebody first meets you, they're gonna notice how you move. But w once somebody actually knows Dylan Vaughn, what do you hope that they see? I hope that they see kindness. Honestly, kindness and competitiveness. Like in in the sports world, competitiveness. But in real life, just kindness and humble. I love that. I love that. Thanks so much, Dylan. Thank you for having me on the podcast. If there's somebody listening right now who knows that they're different and they haven't found that confidence and they haven't found that swagger yet, what would you say to them? I mean, they'll find it. You know, just just keep being true to yourself. Honestly. I love that too. Let me find my clapping. But also to close out, I wanted to say, you know, Sam, thank you for letting me be on the forty-four X20 podcast. Are you kidding? and Merv, dude. I'm just so fired up that you're here. And to be able to share a space with the two of you guys is unbelievable. Thank you for having me. Thank you, bro. All right. Last part. We're all different. We look different. We move different. We think different. We come from different places. We have different strengths, different limitations. And we carry different shit with us when we walk onto the court. But that's the one thing I fucking love about pickleball. We don't have to be the same to compete together. We just have to step between the lines. And sometimes the person that you underestimated is the person who's about to kick your fucking ass. Some people learn to compete. And some people like you, you're just born to compete. Dylan, thanks for coming in and sharing your story. Mervin, thanks for riding shotgun. Thank you. This is 44X20. Step between the lines and grab your mouthpiece. We are out.