Professional pickleball sponsorship in the UK is still in its early stages. Third Shot is proud to confirm its first step into this space with the professional sponsorship of Rachel McCrae.
This signing represents a clear move away from affiliate or ambassador models and into structured, financially backed athlete sponsorship. It positions Third Shot among the first British brands to formally support a professional pickleball athlete.
A milestone moment for UK pickleball
Pickleball participation in the UK continues to grow, but professional athlete support has remained limited. Many competitive players still self-fund travel, training, and competition.
This sponsorship marks a change in approach.
Rachel McCrae becomes one of the first athletes in the UK to receive true professional pickleball sponsorship, backed financially by a British performance brand. This is not a product seeding arrangement or promotional partnership. It is a professional agreement built around performance, competition, and long-term development.
Who is Rachel McCrae
Rachel brings a strong competitive foundation and immediate credibility to the partnership.
- National-level tennis competitor in the UK
- NCAA Division I athlete in the United States
- Rapid rise through competitive UK pickleball
- Podium finishes at the English Nationals, English Open, and multiple pro-level events
Her transition into pickleball has been deliberate and results-driven. That mindset aligns closely with Third Shot’s view on athlete partnerships.
Speaking on the signing, Rachel said:
“I was excited to find a brand that cares about the people at the heart of their sport. As an emerging player from the North of England, it’s been great to work with a local-based company. I’m looking forward to starting this partnership with Third Shot and making a real impact in pickleball.”
A clear difference from affiliate and ambassador models
The Third Shot Collective exists to support grassroots growth. It operates as an affiliate programme designed for community players, coaches, and advocates.
This signing is different.
This professional pickleball sponsorship includes:
- Direct financial backing
- Competition and travel support
- Performance apparel and equipment
- A long-term development focus
It sets a new reference point for how elite pickleball athletes can be supported in the UK.
Co-signed and represented by PUREPKL
Rachel McCrae signs as a Third Shot athlete and is represented by PUREPKL. This co-signing structure reflects a professional approach to athlete management, brand alignment, and career progression as the sport matures.
Representation plays an increasing role in supporting athletes both on and off court. This partnership structure supports competitive performance while maintaining long-term brand integrity.
Why this matters for the future of the sport
Professional pickleball sponsorship in the UK must evolve if the sport is to continue growing sustainably.
This signing demonstrates:
- British athletes can receive professional backing without relocating abroad
- UK brands can lead standards in emerging sports
- Pickleball can support structured, performance-led athlete careers
- Third Shot’s approach is focused on long-term belief rather than short-term visibility.
What comes next
This is Third Shot’s first professional athlete sponsorship. It will not be the last.
The focus remains on:
- Performance-led partnerships
- British-based athletes
- Proper support structures
Pickleball in the UK is entering a new phase. This signing is one of the first steps forward.