Katha Brassfield, executive assistant to the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs, loves spending time with friends and family and playing her favorite sport — pickleball.

Brassfield has worked at Fresno State for 19 years. Prior to joining the University, Brassfield worked at a private utility company for 17 years. When she was laid off, Brassfield said she was looking for a position where she could help others and make a difference.

She has two nephews, two nieces and two great-nephews that she likes to claim as her own.

Brassfield is passionate about pickleball, a sport that combines aspects of tennis, badminton and table tennis. She also enjoys working in her yard and has a passion for flowers.

Campus News asked Brassfield a few questions about pickleball and what she loves about Fresno State.

How is a game of pickleball played?
Pickleball is played on a court similar to a tennis court. The dimensions are smaller, similar to the size of a badminton court. The game is played in singles or doubles. On the serve the receiver must let the ball bounce and the player returning the ball must let it bounce. No volleys until the second bounce. Then game on! Games are played to 11 points. Each player has a paddle that is larger in size than a ping pong paddle. The most common paddles are made of composite and graphite. Your paddle is selected based on what style of game you play — power or control. The sport is growing and manufacturers are beginning to blend the two for the ultimate paddle!

What inspired you to play pickleball?
A friend taught a couple of friends, then myself and a few more friends. Then, before you knew it, we had a standing Saturday morning group. Everyone that is introduced to the game gets hooked.

Who do you compete against?
I play women's doubles. I play mostly tournament play. There is recreational play as well. Depending on the tournament, you can choose to compete against players of your own skill level, or skill level and age. If you play skill level only, you must beware of the young tennis converts that are flooding the pickleball scene. The opponents can range from age 12 to 80 and older. The newest female player is a 13-year-old phenome. She is winning over tried-and-true champions of the sport.

How has pickleball been growing as a sport?
According to a 2018 study by Sports and Fitness Industry Association. there are 3.1 million pickleball players in the United State. The growth is said to be 650% over the last six years.

What are your favorite things about the University?
The people. They are like family. I have worked in several different offices on campus and everyone always bonds together to make the University the best it can be. I also love the landscape. Fresno State has a beautiful campus.

(Editor's note: Campus News accepts nominations for faculty and staff profiles. These stories allow the campus community to learn about the many colleagues who contribute to the success of Fresno State. If you know someone with an interesting story — a passion for helping the community or a cause, a remarkable life journey, or there is just something fascinating about them to share — please email campusnews@csufresno.edu.)