DJ Young is wholeheartedly embracing one of the great joys in life - being a father.

The Bay Area Breakers (MLP) star and his wife, Courtney, welcomed their baby girl, Leighton, on March 23, 2024.

“Being a dad is awesome. There’s nothing that brings a smile more often to me than looking at my daughter,” confided Young. “I love that we’re starting to see her personality come out, and I love when she sees us laughing then starts to laugh with us. It’s just so wholesome.”

The UPA Tour Pro and podcaster also shared how fun it is to watch Leighton grow, learn, and reach milestones like taking her first steps or trying new foods like pizza.

While pro pickleball life is pretty hectic between training, traveling and competing, he still manages to make parenthood work.

Family is always a priority.

“Leighton is my first child, so I really don’t know any different than constantly traveling like this. The way I look at it is that playing pickleball is how I’m able to provide for my family, so it’s a blessing,” he said. “And it’s a good thing because when I’m home, I spend as much time as possible with her and can be completely present in the moment.”

Back in May, the Youngs announced they’re expecting baby number two.

And the level of anticipation, of course, is off the charts. 

“I’m so excited to have another because growing up I had a brother and a sister, so I never wanted to just have one kid. I had the best experience with my siblings,” mentioned Young. “Being able to give that to my daughter is just super special to me.”

Courtney’s due date is September 2, leaving just a few short weeks to prepare.

“I’m not stressed out at all, but I know it’s going to be crazy having two kids. That’s a lot,” said Young. “We’ve had so many people say that having your first kid is a big change, but having your second is an even bigger change. But I couldn’t be more excited.”

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