Daily Racquetball’s Women Crush Wednesday Racquetball Influencers!
AKA Women Making Racquetball History Now!
We will feature another woman making racquetball history every Wednesday. Do you know someone else we should be celebrating with this interview and feature process? Drop us a line on Facebook!
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Name: TJ Baumbaugh
Why do racquetball players know you?
I have done a little of everything. My current title is LPRT Commissioner. I am a former pro player, I have been a tournament organizer, USAR Board Member, instructor, and I do a bit of commentating for the LPRT too.
Where do you promote racquetball on social media and the web?
Facebook LPRT page: https://www.facebook.com/lprtour/
Instagram LPRT page: https://www.instagram.com/lprtour/
LPRT Website: https://www.lprtour.com/
LPRT YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3IUtyASra8EXpJCdNieGXw/videos
LPRT Livestream: https://livestream.com/lprtour
Country of Origin: USA
Place you consider home: Northern Virginia/ DC Metro Area
Did you play as a junior?
I did not play when I was a junior, except occasionally at the YMCA with my Dad. He played local tournaments in the Open division and introduced me to the sport. I did not play competitive racquetball until I went to college (Penn State). Although I had earned a spot on Penn State’s Golf Team, I decided not to play, and instead went searching for a more fitness related activity.
Playing hand: Right
Year you started playing racquetball: 1994
Favorite racquetball shot: Cross court pass.
Motivation for the game (what keeps you playing):
I love having a competitive outlet. I love the racquetball community because I have met so many great people including my closest friends. And, it’s a great workout!
Preferred equipment:
I prefer to support the companies that support the women’s game, specifically the LPRT: HEAD, Penn, and Gearbox have been very loyal LPRT partners. When it comes to shoes, I am pretty picky. I’ve worn Adidas women’s volleyball shoes for probably 20 years. Not the same pair, of course.
Favorite event:
There was not ever an event that I didn’t like. I’ve had so many opportunities to travel around North America, and some in South America, there is no way that I could pick just one favorite. I will mention the US Open because it is so special to watch a player win the title on the glass court, surrounded by cheering racquetball fans. San Luis Potosi, Mexico is always amazing because so many people come to watch who have never seen racquetball before, but they come because they want to watch Paola Longoria. I would like to see the LPRT return to New Orleans sometime. They have an incredible facility there, plus what a cool city with really good food. I would also like to see pro racquetball played in Europe and Asia.
Best results at tournaments you’ve played in:
My highest ranking on the LPRT was #7, I would have to go with that. I was playing some of my best racquetball then.
Day job: Personal Fitness Trainer
Charity close to your heart:
I have a very soft heart for animals, so I support a few local organizations that help rescue and/or rehab animals: Wolf Trap Animal Rescue, American Bulldog Rescue, Lost Dog Rescue Foundation
Other sports played in addition to racquetball: Swimming, Softball, Golf, Basketball, Squash
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Do you know someone else we should be celebrating with this interview and feature process? Drop us a line on Facebook!