OUR TEAM | OUR STORY
Ali Quintero
Ali Quintero is one of the most recognized players in Latin America. She has consistently ranked among the Top 10 in the continental DUPR rankings and has proudly represented Venezuela in international pickleball World Cups. Ali has also won prestigious tournaments such as the APP and US Open in the United States, competing in categories 5.0 and above. She always represents Venezuela and her Hispanic heritage with pride and passion.
Growing up in Venezuela’s impoverished neighborhoods, playing tennis seemed out of reach due to financial hardships. Yet, her passion for the sport ignited a strong determination. With entrepreneurial spirit, Ali embarked on creating high-quality pickleball gear that combines affordability, style, and top performance.
Her mission goes far beyond business—it’s about proving that dedication and excellence can overcome any barrier. Every day, she is driven by the desire to share the values and lessons of pickleball with new generations, especially those facing similar challenges.
Each victory fuels her ambitions, inspiring her to dream bigger and set even higher goals.
Ali Quintero
Founder & Tournament Player
Yen Cárdenas
Yen Cárdenas was raised inspired by the example of her father, who not only pursued his education but also tirelessly supported his siblings, lifting them out of poverty. From a young age, she learned that success requires hard work, dedication, and courage.
For over 25 years, Yen has dedicated herself to television, earning prestigious accolades such as the Emmy, Promax, Telly, GLAAD, and Imagen Awards. Television is not just a job for her, it is her passion. She is a woman highly recognized and respected by her peers in the industry.
With a strong background in promotions and international sales, Yen is responsible for leading the global management of EXE Pickleball. Additionally, she is the head of the EXE Foundation, which donates equipment to South America inspired by her vision.
Yen and Ali work under the philosophy that it is every player’s duty to inspire new generations and, above all, to help those who lack the resources to seize opportunities.
Yen Cárdenas
Co Founder and VP Global Sales
Gustavo "Guppy"
I was born in Maracay, Venezuela, and from a very young age, I’ve been passionate about sports. I’ve practiced tennis, baseball, and water polo, excelling in water polo and achieving significant milestones in Venezuela. This sport taught me the value of teamwork at an early age and gave me immense satisfaction and pride.
I discovered pickleball, and it quickly became a central part of my life. I’ve grown rapidly in the sport, winning multiple tournaments and earning medals along the way. My love for pickleball continues to grow every day, not only as a player but also as a coach. I especially enjoy teaching children who aspire to improve and adults eager to embrace the sport.
Currently, I serve as the Senior Head Coach of the AVP (Association of Venezuelan Pickleball Players), with the goal of helping to discover and develop players here in the U.S. to represent Venezuela internationally.
My commitment to pickleball goes beyond winning tournaments—it’s about nurturing talent, building community, and sharing the joy of this incredible sport.
Valentina Rosales
I was born in the United States to Venezuelan parents, and I proudly carry my Venezuelan-Hispanic heritage wherever I go. My journey in sports began a few years ago with tennis, where I quickly stood out for my determination and talent. It was on the tennis courts that I first discovered pickleball. Intrigued, I decided to give it a try—and it was love at first swing.
My passion for pickleball grew quickly, and I dedicated myself to excelling in both tennis and this exciting new sport. In October 2024, I had the incredible honor of representing Venezuela at the Pickleball World Cup in Peru. Competing in the amateur events, I gave it my all and won two gold medals, marking an unforgettable milestone in my athletic journey.
For me, being an athlete is about more than winning medals—it's about inspiring others and showing what’s possible through discipline, hard work, and a deep love for the game. I’m proud to be part of a promising new generation of champions for Venezuela, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me next, both on and off the court!
Jen Pedraza
Jennifer Pedraza is a Venezuelan pickleball player born in Maracay. She discovered pickleball a couple of years ago and has quickly made her mark in national tournaments, standing out as one of the top five players in the country. Playing with her preferred paddle, the Elite Pro, she has already secured national tournament victories in Venezuela. Jennifer continues to grow in the sport and remains an active competitor.
Ángel Briceño
Born in Maracaibo, Venezuela, Ángel Briceño has already made a name for himself in the national pickleball scene. Consistently ranked in the Top 5 in the country, he has excelled across all categories—Men’s Singles, Men’s Doubles, and Mixed Doubles—often securing podium finishes and top placements.
A dedicated and ambitious young athlete, Ángel continues to train with passion and determination, pursuing his dream of becoming one of the most prominent Venezuelan pickleball players on the international stage.