New York Hustlers fans saw a new face don the New York uniform for the squad’s Saturday afternoon clash against the Orlando Squeeze.

That new addition is Erik Forsythe, an on-site alternate who is filling in for the injured Donald Young.

Forsythe first took the court in the Hustlers’ final game against the Columbus Sliders on Friday, but he had the opportunity to play a full match on Saturday when he teamed up with Zane Ford in men’s doubles and Helena Jansen in mixed doubles.

Recognized as one of the top players in the northeast, Forsythe is also a first-grade teacher at John F. Kennedy Elementary in West Babylon on Long Island.

That commitment gives him an unorthodox training schedule.

“I get my training in usually from 9pm to 11pm or 8pm to 10pm,” he shared. “Then I wake up early and go to the gym before school. I try to grind as much as I can.”

Saturday’s matchup against Orlando, however, was a tough one that pit Forsythe against Federico Staksrud/Dylan Frazier in men’s doubles and Lacy Schneemann/Staksrud in mixed.

Neither game went his way, but the 37-year-old is grateful for the chance to compete in pickleball’s premier team-based competition.

“I tried to make the best of it. I think I showed out a little better today with a little bit of a better warmup, but it was a great opportunity,” he said. “I knew I had to come out firing. With one game to 11 it’s kind of put up or shut up, and I tried to show out as best I could.”

Forsythe’s connection with Hustlers GM Corey Benbasset made the experience all the more special.

“I’ve known Corey for a few years now and have always tried to be a part of the Hustlers’ ecosystem, so to get called up by him was an honor and a privilege.”

Forsythe is expected to join the Hustlers’ for their two remaining matches against the Carolina Hogs (4-13, 13pts) and Brooklyn Pickleball Team (11-5, 36pts) on Sunday.