A PBPRO player since 2019, Paul’s remarkable streak is a story of dedication, community and pure love of the game.
Some people discover pickleball through a friend, a local clinic or a casual invitation to play. Paul Connifey discovered it by following the smiles.
Paul kept seeing people from his condominium building return from outside completely drenched in sweat—but wearing enormous smiles. Curious, he asked what they had been doing.
“I knew it couldn’t have been running,” Paul jokes. “They said, ‘Pickleball!’”
Those neighbors introduced him to the sport and taught him how to play. It was the beginning of something extraordinary.
Paul has stepped onto a pickleball court for more than 2,700 (7.5 Years) consecutive days—an extraordinary streak that may be worthy of Guinness World Records consideration.
A Lifetime of Sports and Service
Paul grew up in Vienna, Virginia, and attended school in nearby Oakton. Tennis and baseball were his primary sports, but his love of competition never stopped there. He also played golf, volleyball, table tennis, football and basketball, with even a little skiing added to the mix.
That broad athletic background made pickleball a natural fit. The sport brought together so many things Paul already loved: movement, strategy, competition, friendship and the simple joy of being active.
Before retiring, Paul spent 25 years working for the federal government. His career took him around the world, providing information technology support at U.S. embassies in numerous countries. His service also included working in Iraq during the war—an experience that required courage, adaptability and resilience.
Those same qualities are easy to see in the commitment Paul now brings to the pickleball court.
7½ Years and Counting
Playing every day takes more than enthusiasm. It takes consistency, discipline and a genuine love for the game. Through changing weather, travel, busy schedules and everyday life, Paul has always found a way to step onto a court and play at least one game.
His streak is an inspiring reminder that pickleball is more than a sport. It creates routines, friendships and communities. It gives players of every age a reason to keep moving, competing and smiling.
Now 59—“60 in pickleball years,” as Paul likes to say—he shows no signs of slowing down.
A Loyal Member of the PBPRO Family
Paul has been part of the PBPRO family since 2019. Over the years, he has been a loyal player, supporter and wonderful ambassador for the game. His passion reflects exactly what PBPRO celebrates: athletes who play with heart, welcome others to the court and keep finding joy in the sport.
Paul’s story did not begin with a plan to set a record. It began with a simple question to a few sweaty, smiling neighbors. Seven and a half years later, he is still playing—and still smiling.
We are proud to have Paul Connifey as part of the PBPRO family and look forward to cheering him on through many more games and milestones.
