At the Obsidian Open, John and his teammate Jason formed Kitchen Fire, a duo that rose to the top of the round robin and fought their way into the finals. Their run showcased the composure, communication, and consistency that high-level play demands. In this Player Spotlight, John opens up about the experiences that shaped him, the mentality behind his game, and the goals driving his next chapter. From the sports that built his foundation to the values he brings into every match, his story reflects the discipline, hunger, and mindset that continue to elevate our entire community.
John and Jason - Kitchen Fire
John Angulo
John Angulo
The first sport I played competitively was soccer. I loved the team aspect of it and loved running. I think the footwork I used in soccer really helps me get around the pickleball court quickly.
— John Angulo
When I first started playing I played almost every day for a whole summer. Then I did my first tournament at a 3.5 level and won! That’s when I decided I wanted to improve and continue competing in more tournaments. I loved the adrenaline and excitement I get when doing a tournament.
— John Angulo
I used to slice almost every ball and realized at a higher level it would work against me, so stopping that habit was difficult. And my double backhand took a lot of work — sometimes I'd completely whiff a ball and be embarrassed, but now it's one of my stronger shots.
— John Angulo
Right now, I’m working on my decision-making and being more strategic with my offensive game.
— John Angulo
When I’m playing my best is when I’m confident and fluid. Not thinking too much, just doing and letting my instinct take over.
— John Angulo
I watched a Kobe Bryant documentary where he talked about doing an extra hour of training every day. In a week that’s 7 extra hours, and over time it accumulates — that mindset motivates me.
— John Angulo
A short-term goal I’m trying to accomplish is reaching a 5.0 DUPR. I fluctuate between 4.8 and 4.9, but having that 5 in front of my name would feel sweet. I don’t think about it too much though — in-game that’s the last thing you want on your mind. Just put in the work and trust the process.
— John Angulo
I think we were doing a great job communicating and staying calm.
— John Angulo
We knew we were up against a younger team with a lot of speed and power, so our best shot was to try to get them into the kitchen and grind points out — wait for an error or an opportunity to attack.
— John Angulo
As frustrating as it can be to mess up a point or lose a game, I try to take every loss and mistake as a lesson learned.
— John Angulo
I think the mindset of just getting one more ball over the net goes a long way. Even when it looks like the point is lost, if I can at least get a paddle on it, it might go over — and the opponent might miss the next shot.
— John Angulo
Go in with no expectations. It’s your first tournament — there will be nerves. If you can minimize that and remember to have fun, you’ll typically play more freely and better.
— John Angulo
Oh after a tournament I’m definitely slamming some Peruvian ceviche with an Inca Cola 💪🏾
— John Angulo
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