JT Nerio aka “The Volley Llama”

JT Nerio, better known as “The Volley Llama,” entered pickleball after a brand-new set of paddles sat unopened in his garage for nearly a year. Once he finally took a class through Poway Unified, the game completely took over. JT is a student of pickleball who is always working to improve, whether he is drilling, competing, or battling with his Thursday night High Country West crew. Known for his calm approach, sharp court awareness, and occasional birthday Nasty Nelson, JT believes pickleball keeps people mentally sharp, physically active, and connected through friendships that extend far beyond the court.