Anna Bright Celebrates New Teammate Elsie Hendershot's Selection by St. Louis Shock

Anna Bright is overjoyed about the St. Louis Shock drafting Elsie Hendershot, emphasizing her skills and potential. Bright's advocacy during the MLP draft showcases her competitive spirit and desire to build a strong team. The addition of Hendershot, along with rising star John Lucian Goins, positions the Shock for a promising upcoming season in Major League Pickleball. Bright's insights into Hendershot's abilities highlight the young player's potential impact on the court.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 3, 2026, 15:47 IST

Excitement Surrounds Elsie Hendershot's Draft

Anna Bright is thrilled about the St. Louis Shock's decision to draft Elsie Hendershot, expressing her eagerness to play alongside her new teammate. Bright played a pivotal role in advocating for Hendershot during the Major League Pickleball (MLP) draft. In her recent newsletter, she conveyed her excitement and detailed her efforts to ensure Hendershot was selected.

“As soon as I joined the team Zoom call before the bench selections began, I inquired if Elsie was still available. When I learned she was, I insisted that we needed her, despite the ownership not being familiar with her,” Bright shared. “I believe it’s a significant oversight that other teams overlooked her. I have always admired Elsie and her playing style. While it’s impossible to predict a player’s future development, I see champion qualities in her mentality, maturity, movement, and skill set.”

Bright also mentioned that she had intentionally kept her admiration for Hendershot under wraps in public forums to increase the chances of her joining the team. “I’ve refrained from praising her publicly because I wanted her on my team,” Bright joked. “Even though I tend to overshare, I am a fierce competitor.”

The addition of Hendershot enhances the Shock's roster as they prepare for the upcoming MLP season. Bright’s strong endorsement underscores Hendershot's reputation among her peers, particularly for her poise, agility, and overall skills on the court.

Bright also expressed her enthusiasm for the Shock's selection of rising star John Lucian Goins. The 17-year-old has already made a name for himself on the PPA Tour, winning consecutive gold medals in singles at the Veolia Bristol Open and the Walgreens Open in Las Vegas last August.

“Lucian excels in singles,” Bright noted. “I wouldn’t be surprised if he becomes a key player for us in Dreambreaker situations.” With the inclusion of Hendershot and Goins, the St. Louis Shock is poised to create a vibrant blend of seasoned players and emerging talent as they gear up for the new Major League Pickleball season.