We’re looking forward to introducing you to Charlie White. Check out our conversation below.
Charlie, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is a normal day like for you right now?
A normal day for me is built around discipline and balance. I start with a morning routine that keeps me grounded – training, focusing on health, and setting intentions in gratitude. At work, I’m fully committed to contributing to my game development team at Blizzard Entertainment, putting in the effort to deliver creative and impactful results. Outside of work, I shift back into athlete mode, training hard and staying consistent with my fitness and nutrition. Along the way, I make it a point to support others – whether that’s mentoring teammates, encouraging fellow athletes, or just being present for friends and family. Every day is about working hard, staying healthy, and appreciating the opportunities I’ve been given.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Charlie White – a former Team USA Beach Handball player and now a pickleball athlete ambassador with Lunar Pickleball. I’ve had the honor of representing the U.S. internationally as a two-time continental champion, and today I bring that same competitive energy to the pickleball court. I was given the nickname the ‘T-1000’ here in Orange County and I decided to just embrace it as part of the journey, just for fun. Off the court, I’m a UX Designer for video games, where I get to merge creativity and discipline to help shape memorable gaming experiences for millions of players around the world.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
For me, moving from elite international beach handball competitions to social pickleball events feels like entering a new season of life. Handball was all about pushing myself at the highest level, representing Team USA, and chasing championships. It demanded everything – discipline, sacrifice, and a competitive fire that shaped who I am. Pickleball, on the other hand, is about connection, community, and enjoying the game with others. I still bring that same competitive spirit, but I’ve embraced the lighter, more social side of sport. It’s been a rewarding transition – one that reminds me that while the stage may change, the joy of competition and being part of a team never goes away.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, to be honest, there have been times I’ve considered giving up. For example, making the USA Beach Handball team was all about perseverance for me. I wasn’t the youngest guy trying out… in fact, I was already an older athlete and wasn’t sure I’d ever have the opportunity at a second chance to complete again like I did when I was younger. I dealt with injuries, some health problems, and the challenge of balancing a full-time job while competing against a strong pool of talent at my position. On top of that, I didn’t always get a chance from the coach right away, so it took patience and resilience to keep showing up and proving myself. Eventually, that persistence paid off. I fulfilled my dream of making the team, traveling around the world, competing at the highest level, becoming a champion and being selected to multiple tournament All-Star teams. What started as an uphill battle turned into one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
I value virtues like justice, courage, integrity, honesty, and prudence because they help me cultivate good character and contribute to the common good. I;ve seen this have a ripple effect through my life and in others. I really believe in putting out what you would like to receive, the concept of synchronicity. I also try to practice reason and self-control to guide my thoughts and emotions, which fosters inner calm and keeps me focused on what is within my power. Finally, I believe in accepting fate and maintaining inner strength in the face of adversity – since it’s not external events that define us, but the choices we make in how we respond. I pray for clarity to intuitively know the next right action and strength to follow through. To do the next right thing in front of me for the right reasons – striving to move forever forward.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I jump into the ocean and come back to shore, looking back at the beach and the palm trees. In that moment, everything feels centered… the water, the view, the quiet… and I just feel grateful. It’s when I really pause, take in that moment, and think, ‘I love my life.’
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlie_white/
Image Credits
SnapIt Studios | RecPlay Pickleball | Groovy Pickleball | Team Lunar | Pawel Jukowski | Team USA
