NorCal Professional Anne Z Receives Top Honor From Sister -

In the world of racket sports, few journeys are as inspiring and heartfelt as that of Anne Zarraonandia, a dedicated professional whose career spans over four decades. Celebrated by her sister and doubles partner of 57 years, Anne’s story is a testament to passion, persistence, and the power of family bonds forged on tennis and pickleball courts. This article honors Anne’s remarkable achievements, her unwavering commitment to the sport, and the lifetime of contributions that earned her the prestigious 2025 NorCal Division George Basco Lifetime Achievement Award.

The Beginning of a Legendary Journey

Anne’s journey began in 1968, nurtured by a mother who believed that tennis was a fitting sport for her athletic daughters. From the outset, Anne displayed qualities that would define her career: a dreamer’s vision inherited from her father, fierce competitiveness, and unconditional love and support from her mother. These traits fueled a partnership with her sister Carrie that has lasted an incredible 57 years—a doubles team united by shared passion and relentless dedication.

Anne’s early years as a player were marked by persistence. Despite facing 14 consecutive first-round losses in USTA sanctioned tournaments, she never gave up. This resilience eventually paid off on the courts, where moments of pure joy came from clever plays like the “put-away” shot she mastered, and strategic leadership as the team captain who skillfully positioned their backhands and wielded the best lefty serve in the game. Check out our early days!

Core Values on and off the Court

More than just skill, Anne’s respect for the sport and its community set her apart. She embodies respect for the rules, opponents, officials, teammates, and herself. One of her unique contributions is teaching her students the “tennis golden rule”—a tradition that encourages players to meet at the net, express gratitude with a sincere “thank you,” and ensure all balls are picked up after play. This rule reflects not only sportsmanship but also a deep sense of responsibility and care for the game environment.

Seven Pillars of Contribution

Anne’s impact on racket sports extends far beyond her playing career. The Lifetime Achievement Award recognizes her outstanding contributions across seven key areas:

Service to the USPTA/RSPA: Anne has been a presenter and attendee at NorCal conferences for 40 years, serving as an elite professional and regional director for Marin County. She also played a pivotal role as an Assistant Coach Developer for Pickleball Certifications in NorCal.
Competitive Player: Her competitive spirit flourished through her involvement with the SRHS, College of Marin Men’s and Women’s teams, and UC Davis, where she proudly cheered “Go Aggies!” Anne reached the number one national ranking and earned three gold balls in the 30’s and 35’s age categories.
USTA Advocacy: Anne has been an active advocate for integrating tennis and pickleball within communities. Her work includes involvement with the EDC Girls Camp and coaching Jr. Team Tennis kids, helping to nurture the next generation of players.
Teaching Professional: Starting with a modest salary of $5 an hour at the Marin Tennis Club right after college, Anne’s teaching career blossomed. She returned to her Park and Recreation roots to coach for 25 years in the City of San Rafael and proudly calls the Belvedere Tennis Club her home court, always with a racket and paddle in hand.
Accomplishments: Anne’s excellence has been recognized through her induction into the Marin County Athletic League Hall of Fame and her 25-year tenure as the head coach of the Redwood High School Girls Tennis team. She was also honored as UC Davis Athlete of the Year.
Research and Publications: Beyond coaching and playing, Anne has contributed to the sport’s educational resources. She has been featured in the RSPA Pickleball Video Tip of the Week and is the founder, videographer, and visionary behind The Z Sisters YouTube Pickleball Channel.
Organizational Affiliations: Certified as a Double-Goal Coach with the Positive Coaching Alliance, Anne holds two pickleball certifications, underscoring her commitment to both sports and their positive development.

A Lifetime of Dedication and Achievement

Anne’s story is one of dedication that transcends the typical athlete’s career. From humble beginnings to becoming a revered figure in NorCal’s tennis and pickleball communities, her journey is a shining example of how passion and perseverance can lead to extraordinary accomplishments.

Her sister Carrie’s emotional tribute captured the essence of what makes Anne so special—not just as a player or coach, but as a person. The heartfelt speech at the award ceremony reflected the deep bond they share, one that has been strengthened by decades of doubles matches, countless practice sessions, and a mutual love for the game. The award is not only a recognition of Anne’s professional excellence but also a celebration of the unique partnership that has been a source of joy and inspiration for both sisters.

Our Journey from Tennis to Pickleball Video here.

From $5 an Hour to Hall of Fame

Anne’s teaching career, which began with a $5 hourly wage at the Marin Tennis Club, evolved into a lifelong vocation marked by influence and leadership. Her 25 years coaching at Redwood High School left a legacy that earned her a place in the Marin County Athletic League Hall of Fame. Throughout her career, Anne has been a role model for young athletes, instilling values of respect, hard work, and sportsmanship.

Championing Integration of Tennis and Pickleball

One of Anne’s key contributions has been her advocacy for bridging tennis and pickleball communities. Recognizing the growing popularity of pickleball, she has worked tirelessly to integrate both sports into local programs, making racket sports accessible and enjoyable for diverse populations. Her involvement with the USTA Advocacy Task Force and coaching at community camps exemplifies this commitment.

Building a Legacy with The Z Sisters Pickleball Channel

Anne’s passion extends into the digital realm through The Z Sisters YouTube Pickleball Channel, a platform she founded and produces. This channel serves as a valuable resource for players of all levels, offering tips, strategies, and inspiration. Anne’s role as a videographer and content creator highlights her innovative approach to sharing knowledge and fostering community in the sport.

Please become a part of the Z Fam: 🔔 🎬 ⭐️ Subscribe: Z Sisters Pickleball YouTube Channel

Teaching the Next Generation

Teaching has always been at the heart of Anne’s career. Whether coaching junior teams, developing certification programs, or mentoring new instructors, her dedication to education has helped shape the future of racket sports. Her philosophy, emphasizing respect and the “tennis golden rule,” encourages players to appreciate the spirit of the game as much as the competition.

Recognition and Celebration

The 2025 NorCal Division George Basco Lifetime Achievement Award is a fitting tribute to Anne’s extraordinary career and her lasting impact on the racket sports community. Presented by her sister Carrie, the award ceremony was a moving moment that celebrated not only Anne’s accomplishments but also the enduring partnership and love shared between the two sisters.

Anne’s story reminds us that sports are about more than winning trophies—they are about relationships, growth, and the joy of playing. Her journey from a young tennis player in 1968 to a respected professional and community leader exemplifies how dedication and heart can create a lifetime of meaningful achievements.

Final Thoughts

Anne Zarraonandia’s career is a beacon for anyone passionate about tennis, pickleball, or sports in general. Her unwavering commitment, competitive spirit, and compassionate coaching have left an indelible mark on NorCal’s racket sports landscape. As she continues to inspire new generations through her teaching and digital content, Anne’s legacy will undoubtedly endure for many years to come.

For those interested in learning more about Anne’s journey, the Z Sisters Pickleball channel offers a treasure trove of tips, stories, and resources that capture the essence of her approach to the game. It’s a celebration of racket sports, community, and the lifelong bonds that sports create.

“Mom, you were right, tennis turns out to be a VERY acceptable sport for girls.”

Indeed, Anne’s story is proof that with passion, perseverance, and a supportive family, the game of tennis—and pickleball—can be a lifelong source of joy, achievement, and connection.