Meet theSlice

Player profile

AJ Koller brings a unique blend of veteran experience, athleticism, and creativity to the Chicago Slice roster. A former hockey player and civil engineer, Koller discovered pickleball in 2018 and quickly rose through the professional ranks, becoming one of the sport's most respected competitors. Known for his lightning-fast hands, elite defense, and trademark "crab walk" at the kitchen line, AJ has established himself as a consistent threat on the court. Off the court, he's known for his laid-back personality, love of videography and woodworking, and relentless competitive spirit. The Austin-based pro adds proven talent, versatility, and leadership to the Slice lineup.

• Hometown

  St. Louis, MO

• College

  CU Boulder

• Background

  College Hockey

• Pro Since

  2021

Player profile

Elsie Hendershot is one of the brightest young talents in professional pickleball. The left-handed Utah native turned pro in 2025 after an outstanding junior career and has quickly earned a reputation for her athleticism, competitive drive, and maturity beyond her years.
Now competing for the Chicago Slice in Major League Pickleball, Elsie continues to gain experience against the sport's top professionals while competing on the PPA Tour. Known for her relentless work ethic and fearless style of play, she is widely regarded as one of the most promising rising stars in pickleball.

• Hometown

  Mapleton, UT

• Pro since

  2025

Player profile

Emma Nelson is a 14 year-old professional Pickleball player signed with UPA. She discovered her passion for the sport three years ago at her local community center, where her journey began under the guidance of her dad, who now travels with her as her coach. After gaining experience in local tournaments, Emma made her PPA debut in February 2024 in Mesa, Arizona — a turning point in her young career. Since then, she has continued to rise through the ranks, fueled by hard work, family support, and a love for the game.

• Hometown

  Omaha, NE

• Age

  14

• Background

  -

• Pro since

  2025

Player profile

Jamie Wei is a highly skilled professional pickleball player known for her consistency, control, and strong all-court game. With a background in competitive tennis, she brings polished fundamentals and excellent shot placement to every match.

Her playstyle is built around patience and precision, constructing points intelligently while minimizing errors. Jamie is especially effective in doubles, where her positioning, resets, and decision-making allow her to neutralize opponents and maintain control of rallies.

She is recognized as a steady and reliable competitor, capable of competing with top players through disciplined and efficient play.

• Hometown

  Palo Alto, CA

• College

  Columbia

• Background

  D1 Tennis

• Pro since

  2022

Player profile

John Lucian Goins is a professional pickleball player known for his dedication, work ethic, and competitive drive. Having trained extensively from a young age, he has developed into a high-level athlete competing in premier events across the United States. John is passionate about growing the sport, inspiring the next generation of players, and continually improving his game through disciplined training and competition. His goals include competing at the highest levels of professional pickleball while building meaningful partnerships that support the sport’s international growth.

• Hometown

  BRADENTON, FL

• Pro since

  2024

Player profile

Zane Navratil is one of the most recognizable figures in professional pickleball, known for his strategic mindset, high-level consistency, and innovative approach to the game. With a background in Division I tennis, he combines strong fundamentals with a deep understanding of tactics and shot selection.

His playstyle emphasizes control, patience, and precision, allowing him to outmaneuver opponents and dictate the pace of play. Zane is especially known for his doubles success, where his positioning, resets, and decision-making make him a constant presence at the top level of competition.

Off the court, he is also a leading voice in the pickleball community, contributing to the sport’s growth through content, analysis, and education.

• Hometown

  Racine, WI

• College

  University of Wisconsin–Whitewater

• Background

  College Tennis

• Pro since

  2020