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PRESCRIPTION FOR JOY

HOW MAUI’S OWN DR. KIMMIE

OUCHI BALANCES MEDICINE, FAMILY, AND PICKLEBALL

ALOHA PLAYS HERE. ALL LOCAL. ALWAYS.

PROUDLY PUBLISHED BY HAWAII PICKLEBALL MEDIA GROUP

MAHALO TO OUR CONTRIBUTORS!

BIG MAHALO TO THE AMAZING FOLKS WHO HELP BRING EACH ISSUE TO LIFE!

WE’RE SENDING A BELATED HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO TRACEY BENNETT (NOVEMBER 3) — OUR GO-TO REFEREE CONTRIBUTOR WHO KEEPS US ALL PLAYING FAIR AND HAVING FUN.

AND A HUGE THANK-YOU TO COACH KYLE PAREDES , OUR RESIDENT COACH AND VOICE BEHIND THIS MONTH’S PICKLEBALL PERSPECTIVES , FOR ALWAYS SHARING HIS EXPERTISE WITH THE COMMUNITY. YOU BOTH BRING SO MUCH ALOHA TO THE GAME —AND WE’RE SO GRATEFUL FOR ALL YOU DO!

“Let us be grateful to the people who make us happy; they are the charming gardeners who make our souls blossom.”

— MARCEL PROUST

As we head into the season of gratitude, I’ve been thinking about how this sport connects us in ways that reach far beyond the court.

This month’s cover story features Dr. Kimmie Ouchi, a Maui physician whose story stayed with me long after our conversation. Her story reminded me how connected all the parts of our lives really are—how the court often reveals who we are off of it, and how the lives we lead outside the lines quietly influence the way we play.

She reminds us that pickleball isn’t a separate part of our lives; it’s woven into who we are. We’re greater than the sum of our parts, and the real challenge might be carrying that same aloha and generosity we show on the courts into everything else we do.

This month, I’m also reminded of John F. Kennedy’s words:

“We must find time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.”

As you flip through the magazine, you’ll see a flyer about a fundraising tournament for Coach Kyle Kaneshiro. Kyle led the storied Moanalua High School tennis program for 25 years and is the force behind K2 Pickleball’s lessons, clinics, and monthly tournaments that have opened doors for so many local players. The tournament will take place at the end of this month, and we extend a warm invitation to join us as we stand together in support of Kyle.

Thank you for being part of the HPM ‘ohana and for keeping the aloha spirit alive both on and off the court. I’m grateful for you—and for the ways I know we’ll show up for Kyle and for each other.

Happy Thanksgiving!

With aloha,

Jen Wilson Editor, Hawaii Pickleball Magazine

PRESCRIPTION FOR JOY

HOW MAUI’S OWN DR. KIMMIE OUCHI BALANCES MEDICINE, FAMILY, AND PICKLEBALL

IslandPrideinVegas #AlohaOnThePodium

Tricks, Treats & Pickleball Feats #MakakiloMonsterMatch

Ohana Meets Pickleball

1. Makakilo players served up Halloween fun in costume

2. Jerrold Hew and Jill Peterson brought home medals from the Vegas Cup

3. Dave Jager (far right) introduced pickleball to his family in Spokane and sparked a three-generation love for the game.

WHERE HEALING MEETS THE GAME

ON MAUI, PHYSICIAN AND PICKLEBALL PLAYER

DR. KIMMIE OUCHI FINDS STRENGTH, BALANCE, AND CONNECTION— ON AND OFF THE COURT.

THE EARLY DAYS

“It’s a blessing to be a primary care provider in Lāhainā,” says Dr. Kimmie Ouchi. “To be able to continue on this journey and be there for my community has been a privilege and an honor and a blessing.”

She was born and raised on Maui. “Pretty much grew up my entire life on the Lāhainā side,” she says. Her parents owned De Anko’s Jewelry on Front Street. She went to Holy Innocents Preschool, King Kamehameha III Elementary (“which burned in the fire”), Lāhainā Intermediate, and then Lahainaluna High School before transferring upcountry to Seabury Hall.

“I was eight years old when I was introduced to tennis at the Wakida courts off Lāhainā Front Street, and I just fell in love with it.” She remembers long days at the courts and weekends spent hopping to the neighbor islands for tournaments. “We would travel to the Big Island and Kaua‘i and O‘ahu, stay with host families, and they would have tournament parties and dances,” she says.

She was competitive from the start. “My doubles partner for ten years—from age eight to 18—was Jean Okada. We were number one in the state for ten years for doubles,” she says.

By high school, she already knew what she wanted. “We were sitting on the curb one day talking about what we wanted to be, and I said, ‘I want to be a doctor.’ It sounds so simple now, but I meant it.”

At Seabury Hall, she capped her prep career with a girls’ doubles state title and later accepted a Division I scholarship to Santa Clara University. “I liked the size of the school, the ability to play D1 but also be premed,” she says.

LEADING WITH WELLNESS

After earning her MD from the University of Hawai‘i John A. Burns School of Medicine and completing her residency at UC Davis in Family and Community Medicine, Kimmie returned home to Maui and joined Kaiser Permanente in 2003.

Her path to family medicine felt natural. “I’m very much into relationship building and connection,” she says. “Family medicine was a great way to do that. You get to care for entire families through all stages of life, and that continuity really means something.”

Over time, her care extended beyond patients to her peers as well. “I’ve been co-chair of the Hawai‘i Permanente Medical Group Health and Wellness Committee for a number of years and also sit on the National Permanente Medicine Health and Wellness Work Group,” she explains. “We share best practices to improve the health and wellness of our organizations and our care providers.”

In that work, she draws on the Stanford Model of Professional Fulfillment—a national framework that helps healthcare organizations address burnout and create healthier systems of care. For Kimmie, these are not abstract concepts. “Being able to incorporate evidence-based self-care practices, such as exercise and engagement in positive relationships into one’s weekly routine has been proven not only to promote longevity, but also personal resilience,” she says.

It’s a philosophy she lives as much as she teaches; pickleball provides both exercise and camaraderie for Kimmie.

RETURN TO THE COURT

A lifelong competitor, Kimmie stepped away from tennis during medical school and residency, returning to adult leagues later. But in late 2021, friends started calling: Come play pickleball.

“I was a tennis purist,” she laughs. “I told my friends, ‘No, I’m not going to play that.’ Eventually I tried it a few times and fell in love with it.”

It didn’t take long before she wanted to test herself in competition. “I self-rated as a 3.5 and entered my first tournament in early 2022,” she says.

Patrick Holland, one of her early mentors, asked her to partner with him in the Maui Pukaball Tournament.

“That was flattering and challenging at once,” she says. “We trained a lot for that first tournament, and he helped me push myself to higher levels of play and against stronger players.”

She also credits San Diego pro Austin Sveom (who has coached top player Connor Garnett), as her most influential coach. “Austin used to come to Maui for short coaching stints every six weeks or so,” she says. “I learned some of my most valued pickleball tips from him. I still review his notes to this day—I even looked at them before playing my most recent NPL Championship in Seattle.”

She loved learning a “whole new sport.” “I love challenges—something fun that I can work towards,” she says. “Coming from tennis, it’s kind of a blessing and a curse. You have to really focus on keeping the ball low and dropping it at your opponents’ feet. If you don’t get the ball low, you’re pretty much done. I gained an appreciation early on that pickleball isn’t ‘mini-tennis’—it’s its own game with a whole new skill set.”

“Playing smarter and not harder is also key,” she adds. “The harder you hit, the faster it comes back and you can’t get to the kitchen line. Learning to hit at 70–80 percent and letting it arc is far more effective. The goal is to get to the kitchen, be patient, and allow for optimal point construction. Artful dinking patterns and technique allow opportunities to present themselves… then it’s all about execution.”

For Kimmie, the game is as much about people as it is about play. “It’s really given me a whole new world of friendships and experiences,” she says. “You’re getting exercise, you’re outdoors, and you’re doing it with friends.”

HER MAUI PICKLEBALL

‘OHANA

Maui is a small island, and having a close-knit group of friends who share a similar passion is priceless.

To my Maui pickleball ‘ohana—I’m forever grateful. Without all my wonderful pickle friends—you know who you are—I would not be the player that I am today. Special shout out to my Joyful Pickleball Club WhatsApp Thread with Philip Hou and Birlinda Akinaka; Kento Tamaki and Patrick Holland for always pushing me to be better; my weekly MCC session with James Thorp, Jeff Giesea, Ben Holz, and Brooke Gannon; MCC drilling with Henry Spencer and Scott Kessler; Pam Cooke, Todd Kawasaki, and Mike Fisher for always keeping me in the game; Wailea Point Sunday sessions with Jon and Judy Lelevier; and the unconditional support from pickle friends--Carol Wallack, Rodger May, and Marinel Robinson.

RISING FROM LAHAINA

On August 8, 2023, Kimmie was en route to the Bainbridge Island Founders Tournament. “We’d just finished some practice matches and were settling into our Airbnb, getting ready for the tournament to start.” Her voice breaks.

“I remember getting a text…and it just said, ‘Lāhainā is gone.’ To not be there, to not be on Maui when that was happening…I felt very hopeless and helpless.”

Her mother was on the west side. “We couldn’t reach her,” Kimmie recalls. “She was actually missing for a couple of days.” With no cell service, communication was nearly impossible. “My friend Pam Cooke—the same Pam that got me into pickleball—was on Maui. She drove by my mom’s house, went to the shelters, even checked Maui Prep, but couldn’t find her. Later, she went back to my mom’s Kāʻanapali home which hadn’t burned. She was just sitting there in the dark… by herself.”

Kimmie cut her Bainbridge tournament short and flew back to Maui. At the Lāhainā Gateway Center, Kaiser Permanente had set up a mobile clinic, with a mobile health vehicle on loan from Oahu, as part of the relief effort. The parking lot was transformed into a massive distribution site bordering the burn zone. “I started out helping to distribute food and supplies, but when I saw the mobile health vehicle, I went straight there to help deliver medical care with my Kaiser Permanente team.”

Then, “Northern California Kaiser Permanente sent a second mobile health vehicle,” she says. “We had one stationed at Lāhainā Gateway and another at Nāpili Park then later both at the Royal Lāhainā tennis courts. Those same courts where I’d played tennis as a kid were now where we were providing healthcare to our community. The Hyatt Regency also opened its ballrooms for care.”

Two mobile clinics and rotating teams provided care across multiple sites, treating anyone who needed help. “We basically delivered care to anyone and everyone who needed it, agnostic of insurance,” Kimmie says. “Our social workers, home health staff, pharmacy—all of them went above and beyond. People had lost everything: their medications, glasses, walkers, medical equipment. We were starting from zero.”

She remembers how the mobile clinic’s location beside the distribution center helped reach people who might otherwise have slipped through the cracks. “While folks waited in line for food or supplies, our social workers would walk around asking, ‘Hey, is there anything you need? How can we help you?’ FEMA was down there too, and the hospital had medical services right next to us. We all worked together. It was really wonderful.”

“Just showing up and seeing patients again—it was overwhelming,” she says. “People were so happy to see us. There were hugs, cheers, and tears. You didn’t even know who had survived, so when a prescription refill came through the computer, I’d think, ‘Oh my gosh, they’re alive.’ Even nurses, a PA, and one of our doctors who had lost their homes still showed up every day to serve the community.”

The challenges didn’t end when the immediate crisis passed; they simply changed shape as the focus shifted from urgent care to emotional recovery. “We knew there was a huge need for behavioral health—so much trauma, post-traumatic stress, depression, anxiety—but what was challenging was matching the resources to the need. We had psychiatrists come in from California, and our own behavioral-health folks. But people aren’t just going to walk up and say, ‘Hey, I need help.’ We had to adjust.”

Teams began roaming between shelters and hotels. “A lot of folks early on were in hotels,” she says. “How do you reach those people? There was hardly any cell

RAPID FIRE WITH KIMMIE

PRE-GAME RITUAL: LISTENING TO A SONG ON MY PREGAME PLAYLIST TO GET FOCUSED FOR A MATCH. I’VE BEEN DOING THIS SINCE MY COMPETITIVE TENNIS DAYS.

MORNING PERSON OR NIGHT OWL? MORNING PERSON

SPIRIT ANIMAL: BEAR

Planting roots for the future—Kimmie with Kaiser Permanente Senior Leadership at the planting of an ‘ulu tree next to their modular clinic in Kā‘anapali.

service, a lot of emotion, a lot of loneliness. At one point we even had these welfare carts—they’d walk down the hallways with a bell so people could maybe open their door if they needed something. Because again, how do you reach these folks?”

In time, the response shifted from meeting immediate needs to restoring a lasting place for care. “I do want to give a call-out to the Hyatt Regency Maui, who partnered with Kaiser Permanente,” she says. “We’ve been able to have land there near the employee parking lot. We have a modular clinic now where we offer care to our patients. We have pharmacy services, lab services, primary care, specialists coming out—OBGYN, nephrology, physical therapy. One of the mobile health vehicles from San Jose is still on loan to us for physical therapy, lab work, and behavioral health. It’s been a blessing to have that space—to come back together as a clinic again.”

“We have a very strong clinic ‘ohana”, she continues. “Many of us have grown up in Lāhainā. A lot of the staff were born and raised there. I’ve known a lot of the

nurses since I was younger—we’ve all grown up together. Even the newer providers who’ve made Lāhainā their home feel that connection. I drive from Upcountry, but as soon as I get over there, it’s just this wonderful feeling—being blessed to have this community and those relationships and wanting to help our community get back on its feet.”

They’ve even planted new life on the grounds. “We planted a couple of ‘ulu trees outside the clinic as a symbol—being able to provide for the community and leave a legacy that way.”

For Kimmie, the work continues. “It’s been a journey for sure, but it makes you stronger. People are becoming more engaged with their health again, which is wonderful. For a long time it was all survival—figuring out where to live, what to eat, how to manage insurance. Now people are coming back, getting back on their medications, doing their screenings. It’s nice to see that engagement again. It means healing is happening.”

BACK IN THE GAME

Through the aftermath of the fires, pickleball became both a lifeline and a new proving ground. “It’s been a great balance for me,” Kimmie says. “It’s an outlet. To have something that you love doing, and with people that you love doing it with, has just been an incredible gift.”

Ready for new challenges, she began entering larger events—starting with the ESPN tournament on O‘ahu. “Then I went to PPA Atlanta and partnered with senior pro Josh Cooperman and legend Julie Johnson. A wonderful leap—I got a silver with Josh and then a gold with Julie in senior pro.” Kimmie also partnered with Mady Wolfe, earning second in the women’s doubles pro qualifier and a spot in the main draw for women’s doubles in Atlanta.

That momentum carried into San Clemente, where she earned another silver with Josh and a gold with Julie. “It was surreal,” she says. “I’m still learning, still a student of the game, but I felt like all the hours I’d put in were coming together.”

Her entry into the National Pickleball League came through aloha and connection. Visiting pros Sarah Williams and Abbi Hatton trained on Maui and encouraged her to give it a try. “They said, ‘You could totally play NPL,’” Kimmie recalls.

Houston Hammers Captain, Helen Wilhelm, was looking for a Pod 1 player. “Helen asked for some video footage and checked with Julie Johnson,” Kimmie says. “Julie gave her the thumbs-up. Then the owners approved me as a permanent sub for the Princeton event and the Seattle

WHAT IS THE NPL?

The National Pickleball League (NPL) is a nationwide team league created for championslevel, 50+ professional pickleball players. Founded in 2023, the league features 12 coed teams representing cities across the U.S., competing in weekend “team-battles” throughout the season.

The NPL brings together professional athletes aged 50 and above in a community built on competition, sportsmanship, and a shared love of the game…proving that elite play and passion don’t come with an age limit.

Championship. They signed me. It was absolutely amazing.”

“All the top senior pro players play NPL,” she says. “So the level is awesome. And again, you have this whole team of friends.”

At the Princeton event, her team went 4–0, defeating Naples, Boca, Austin, and Princeton. “We even had a team breaker against Boca, and we actually pickled them 11–0,” she says, still delighted. “Everybody’s getting really excited for Seattle, where basically all the teams are going to be there competing for championships.”

Seattle did not disappoint. Kimmie competed in Pod 1 of the 2025 season—(there are three pods of play in NPL with Pod 1 being the highest level)--taking on many of the top teams. She and her partner, Helen Wilhelm, fought hard in women’s doubles… including a victory over Audra Spielberger and Taylor Taylor of the Boca Raton Picklers.

“That was a highlight,” she says. “They’re one of the best women’s doubles teams in NPL. Helen and I strategized effectively and executed shots to win that match in three. We focused on slowing things down, making effective drops and dinks, getting ourselves to the kitchen. Once at the kitchen, it was about patient dinking to either force an error or create a put-away. We even started throwing in lobs, which helped with point construction.”

She pauses. “I love the energy and camaraderie around team events. There’s nothing like it. Having fans and teammates cheering you on with cowbells and maracas—it’s just the best.”

Kimmie with husband John and daughter Nanea

HOW NPL TEAM BATTLES WORK

Each NPL “team battle” is a weekend stop on the league’s calendar where several teams gather at one location to compete in a series of round-robin and playoff matches. Results from each team battle competition contribute to the teams’ overall season standings, culminating in a national championship.

AT THE CENTER OF IT ALL

Kimmie’s strength doesn’t come from juggling roles; it comes from weaving them together.

Her husband, a former Hawai‘i Tsunami pro soccer player and coach, understands her drive completely. “He’s still competing too,” she says. “We both realize that being able to continue to play the sports we love helps us maintain wellness and balance in our lives, which benefits all of us.”

Their son, Esken, is a civil engineering student at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo who played competitive club soccer. Their daughter, Nanea, is a volleyball player and paddler. “She paddled for one week and was chosen for World Sprints last year” Kimmie says proudly. “She got a gold in the thousand meters and a silver in the 500. They both know the value of sports, discipline, and community.” Nanea’s dream is to play D1 college volleyball— she was recently selected to join Aces Hawaii VBC on O’ahu to bring her game to the next level.

When she reflects on what she hopes her children take from watching her navigate it all, she says, “I hope they learn the importance of engaging in work you’re passionate about, both personally and professionally. I truly feel that if you’re happy in both your personal life and professional life, then this enriches life as a whole.”

Asked how she manages the travel, the long hours, and the pull of family life, Kimmie answers without hesitation. “They totally get it,” she says. “Everyone gets it.” That shared support is what keeps their family grounded…each cheering the others on in their own pursuits.

Whether she’s training, catching a flight to a tournament, or putting in long hours at the clinic, there’s no need for explanation. In her family, excellence and drive aren’t optional; they’re simply how life is lived.

PRESCRIPTION FOR LIFE

Medicine, family, sport, and place have never been separate pursuits for Kimmie. They’re all threads of the same story. The same empathy and discipline that define her in the clinic power her on the court, keep her grounded in community, and connect her deeply to Maui—the home that shapes everything she does.

She continues to live that wholeness through movement, mentorship, and mastery: competing, teaching, and giving back in ways that keep her centered in both purpose and play. “I hope to continue competing at the pro and senior pro levels,” she says. “I’d love to get my teaching certification and share what pickleball has given me. I truly feel pickleball is a prescription for longevity and wellness.”

A native daughter of Maui, Dr. Kimmie Ouchi has built a life that heals, connects, and inspires—on the court, in the clinic, and in the community she will always call home. HPM

“Pickleball is my prescription for longevity and wellness.”

Kimmie With Esken

REFEREE CORNER WITH LEVEL 2 REFEREE TRACEY BENNETT

I reffed the Hawaii Senior Games in 2018. (Four days with too little sleep. Bleary. Ugh.)

Got my L1 badge in 2022. By mid-2023 I'd reffed 400 games in rec play and tournaments from Mililani to Kailua. Earned my L2 ranking in September 2023.

Check out Tracey’s spotlight feature HERE.

YOUR BURNING COURT QUESTIONS ANSWERED

REFEREE CORNER

Q. I love to read your column in the Pickleball magazine. I play with a wonderful group for exercise and fun! BUT I’m curious about this scenario that just happened….

The opposing team was trying to return the ball (not a first serve or 2nd bounce rule, etc.). My partner and I saw it bounce twice before the opponent returned the ball, so we stopped play. The opponent and his partner said it only bounced once because he missed it as a volley but hit it after the 1st bounce. We didn’t agree and I offered to junk n po since we only play for fun, but we gave the opponent the benefit of the doubt and continued.

Obviously there are 4 people in 4 different physical views of the scenario (directly in front, diagonally in front, the player returning the ball, and diagonally 3 feet behind the player) so it is possible to see different things. Who makes the call? - Annette

A. Awesome question, Annette! (And thanks for the love.) The short answer is that only referees can call a double bounce.

BTW, it’s touching and a tad hilarious that you offered to junk n po [translation: rock paper scissors]. Such a Hawaii way to resolve a dispute.

OK, back to your question: Stopping play is a fault. (Bummer, eh? And frustrating too because you know what you saw. On the other hand, your opponents know what they saw….)

Next time, wait til the rally ends. Then speak your piece. If your opponents disagree, well, it’s their call so grumble softly and carry on.

Waiting would be the way to go on most kinds of fault calls, including double bounces, players or their clothing hit by the ball, and balls tossed or thrown during a drop serve.

Rulebook 13.D.1.d. For non-officiated matches, if a player believes an opponent has committed any type of fault other than a service foot fault or non-volley zone fault as noted in Section 7 – Fault Rules, they may mention the specific fault to the opponent(s) upon completion of the rally but they have no authority to enforce the fault. The final decision on fault resolution belongs to the player that allegedly committed the fault.

So what faults CAN you call on your opponent?

Rulebook 13.D.1.c. Players may call non-volley zone faults and service foot faults on the opponent’s end of the court. Claims of non-volley zone faults and service foot faults on opponents must be called as soon as the claimed fault is detected. If there is any disagreement between teams about the called fault, a replay shall occur.

P.S. I get what you mean about various points of view because—playing in the gym years ago—my partner and I saw the ball bounce under the net, but our opponents saw it go over…. Wow…. You readers probably have stories like that, too, eh?

*** PSA: Is your name & phone number on your paddle? Chair? Water bottle?

*** What’s happening on your court? Did you have some “spirited" discussions? If you don’t find answers in the 2025 Rulebook, email me.

Cheers! Tracey

GET INTO POSITION FASTER & HIT BETTER SHOTS

Coach Kyle Paredes shares two movement tips to help you get into position faster and hit cleaner shots—plus a quick 30-second routine to get game-ready in minutes. HPM

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FREE YOUR BACK, POWER YOUR GAME

HOW LOOSENING TIGHT HIPS AND HAMSTRINGS CAN RELIEVE PAIN AND UNLOCK BETTER MOVEMENT

Let’s talk about something that affects too many of us— back pain caused by tight hamstrings and hips.

If you’ve ever bent to scoop up a drop shot or pick up your grandkids and felt that tight tug in your lower back, let me explain why. Tight hamstrings and hips are one of the biggest hidden causes of low-back strain—and one of the easiest to fix once you know how.

Your hamstrings run from your sit bones down just past your knees. When they lose flexibility, they pull on your pelvis, tipping it backward and flattening the natural curve of your lower spine. That position places stress to your low back with every bend, reach, and swing. But more—this flattening also prevents your deep stabilizing back muscles from doing their job of protecting and supporting your spine.

The fix? Simple (though not always easy): release the tension and allow your hips and core to work together again as the powerful, forcegenerating powerhouse they were designed to be.

TRY THESE THREE SIMPLE TUNE-UPS

1 Supine Hamstring Stretch

WHY: Lengthens tight hamstrings, alleviates low-back strain, and restores hip mobility for easier bending and reaching.

HOW: Lie on your back and clasp your hands behind one knee, keeping the other leg straight on the floor.

Gently straighten the leg you’re holding until you feel a stretch behind your knee. Hold for 2 seconds, then release. Repeat 15–20 times per leg.

CHRISTINE’S TIP: Don’t force the stretch. Over those 15–20 reps, you will ease your hamstring into greater flexibility.

2 Knee-to-Opposite-Chest Stretch (my favorite!).

WHY: Stretches the powerful buttock and deep hip muscles that, when tight, limit your side to side mobility— with better flexibility, you’ll improve the power and stability you have on your feet!

HOW: Lie on your back and bring one knee across your body toward the opposite shoulder until the front half of your foot hangs beyond your leg. Place your inside hand on the outside your knee and your outside hand mid-shin.

Gently pull up toward your chest. For a deeper stretch, pull slightly more with your outside hand. You’ll feel this deep in your buttock. Hold 20 seconds each side.

CHRISTINE’S TIP: Breathe deeply as you stretch. As your body relaxes, your muscles let go more easily.

3

“Suck

It In!” (Deep Core Activation).

WHY: This is the secret weapon for stabilizing your spine during every bend, reach, and swing. Your deep core is meant to activate before you reach, bend or initiate a swing—but after even one episode of back pain, that timing becomes delayed. That’s why you experience continued low back pain when you bend or reach or perform other simple day to day movements. Let’s reboot your deep core so you can have a strong and pain free low back for play!

HOW: Stand tall, in good posture. To ignite your deep core, gently pull your belly button inward like you’re zipping up tight jeans or, “Suck It In” as I say. This engages your deep core to stabilize your low back.

Repeat this 20 times, in and out

CHRISTINE’S TIP: This quick “Suck It In” maneuver activates your deep core muscles to stabilize your low back and give you power on the court.

All you must do to protect your back, alleviate your pain and strengthen this system is: Suck It In before you stand up, sit down, reach for the refrigerator door, bend to put your pickleball shoes on or to pick up your child or grandchild and you’ll be running around the court powerfully once again!

YOUR PICKLEBALL TAKEAWAY

Christine Lynders, PT, OCS, CAFS, PCES

Your Pickleball Body Tune-Up Coach

The more flexible your hips and hamstrings are, the better you’ll perform and feel on the court. Whether you’re chasing a dink or lifting a grocery bag, remember this: Free your hips, lengthen your hamstrings, and “Suck It In” before you move—your back will thank you! See you on the court—pain-free and powerful!

More Than a Price Tag

Coach Kyle Paredes unpacks what goes into lesson rates— and how players can choose wisely.

By Jen Wilson

“At the end of the day, find the right coach that will help guide you toward your pickleball goals and understand that a player will achieve these goals in his or her own time. ”

— Coach Kyle Paredes

About Pickleball Perspectives

This recurring feature highlights different viewpoints on issues shaping the sport. Each feature presents one voice in the conversation—always with the aim of helping players and coaches see the bigger picture.

From group sessions to private lessons, coaching rates across Hawai‘i can vary widely. To help players make sense of what they’re really paying for, and how to choose the right fit—I asked Coach Kyle Paredes to weigh in.

Q. Why do Pickleball Instructor rates vary so much? I‘ve seen rates vary from $25/hr. and up to $150/hr.

A. Pickleball instructor rates vary for several reasons. Some reasons are due to logistics. Some reasons are due to the depth of certifications, degrees, and the private, group, or clinical structure. Unfortunately, some are simply a money grab to unknowing players seeking an instructor based on their skill level in the game and not correlated to their actual coaching acumen.

Q. What’s the difference between rates for a private vs group lesson?

A. Logistically, if one is taking a group lesson, the more players involved, the less the rate should be. A reasonable rate for a group of 3 to 4 players or more should be about $20-$25 per person per hour. A reasonable rate for a private lesson with a certified instructor would be $60-$70/hour. However, an instructor that is certified and holds educational credentials that focuses on exercise science, biomechanics, kinesiology, coaching, sports movement or teaching expect to pay from $70-$80 an hour for a private lesson.

Q. What are some things to look out for when choosing a coach?

A. When seeking an instructor, here are some parameters to consider:

1. Certified coach — has basic knowledge of how to create a training session for various skill levels and is granted insurance to practice as a coach through the certification agency. There are various levels of certifications and organizing bodies. Some are considered gold standards such as (PPR) which requires a more in depth process to acquire, while others are more easily accessible through an entirely online process.

2. Has educational credentials to support the rationale for biomechanics that will help a player be as successful as can be at varying points along player development.

3. Has a proven track record in competition. Just because a player is good, doesn’t necessarily mean they are a good coach. But, a coach who has competed and has a consistent finishing record, should also have

empathy for the feelings and thoughts that go through a player’s mind. Having competitive experience also shows game IQ at various skill levels.

Q. Aren’t all coaches created equal if they have a certification?

A. Not all coaches are able to work with different demographics from beginner to intermediate to advanced skill levels as well as Juniors to middle-aged adults to super seniors. For example, I have no desire to work with kids however, Coach Elaina has the patience and expertise of teaching PE and coaching youth sports for 28 years, which enable her to be able to keep these kids engaged throughout a lesson.

Q. Why aren’t there regulations and ethics with regards to coaching rates?

A. Unfortunately, there isn’t a set standard in the industry and so there are some instructors who charge based on what unknowing players are willing to pay. Players looking to level up their game should do their due diligence to be sure a coach they are considering has at least one or more of the three parameters listed above. Word-of-mouth from a trusted friend is a great way toward pointing someone in the right direction.

Q. Why is finding the right coach important?

A. Finding the right instructor matters because they need to know how to coach the sport safely, how to coach the skills in progression, and how to address the needs of a player at varying points on their pickleball journey without overwhelming them. A good coach can give them the mental, emotional and physical tools to help them be successful with the skillset they have at any given point.

At the end of the day, find the right coach that will help guide you toward your pickleball goals and understand that a player will achieve these goals in his or her own time. Everyone comes to the sport with different strengths and weaknesses. If you want to get better faster, one should be prepared to train on the days that he or she is not training with the coach.

PICKLEBALL ZODIAC

DECEMBER EDITION

STARS, SERVES, AND A LITTLE COSMIC SPIN

Ever wonder what the stars have to say about your pickleball game? We pulled next month’s planetary insights from trusted astrologers across the web and gave them a fresh, pickleball twist.

Take what speaks to you, laugh off the rest, and remember… sometimes the best forecast is just to keep playing .

KNOW YOUR SIGN (AND YOUR

COURT STYLE)

ARIES

THE RAM (MAR 21 – APR 19)

Bold, competitive, and fearless at the net. You dive for every ball and start every rally like it’s match point.

TAURUS

THE BULL (APR 20 – MAY 20)

Steady, loyal, and reliable. You love your favorite paddle and your favorite court crew…change isn’t your thing unless it’s a sure upgrade.

GEMINI

THE TWINS (MAY 21 – JUN 20)

Chatty, curious, and always moving. You’re everyone’s favorite partner because you keep the energy light and the conversation flowing.

CANCER

THE CRAB (JUN 21 – JUL 22)

Heart-first and community-minded. You play for the hugs, the laughs, and the post-match snacks as much as for the points.

LEO

THE LION (JUL 23 – AUG 22)

Confident, charismatic, and always tournament-ready. You love the spotlight, but your best glow comes when you lift others up.

VIRGO

THE VIRGIN (AUG 23 – SEP 22)

Precise, analytical, and quietly determined. You study the spin, track the stats, and tweak your technique until it feels just right.

LIBRA

THE

SCALES (SEP 23 – OCT 22)

Balanced, graceful, and team-oriented. You know chemistry wins games, and your smooth communication keeps partnerships flowing.

SCORPIO

THE SCORPION (OCT 23 – NOV 21)

Focused, intense, and loyal to your crew. When you commit to improving, you go all in…body, mind, and spirit.

SAGITTARIUS

THE ARCHER (NOV 22 – DEC 21)

Adventurous, optimistic, and restless. You’re the one organizing the next court trip or signing up for an out-of-town tourney.

CAPRICORN

THE

GOAT (DEC 22 – JAN 19)

Disciplined, ambitious, and methodical. You love a challenge ladder and believe every great rally starts with great preparation.

AQUARIUS

THE WATER BEARER (JAN 20 – FEB 18)

Inventive, social, and a little unpredictable. You’re the one who suggests glow-in-the-dark open play or brings the newest paddle tech to test.

PISCES

THE FISH

(FEB 19 – MAR 20)

Empathetic, creative, and in tune with the flow of the game. You sense where the point is going before the ball even leaves the paddle.

DECEMBER PICKLEBALL HOROSCOPES

ARIES: THE RAM

Your serve is hot this month. You’re charging the kitchen like Mars lit the torch in Sagittarius. December asks: are you dialing it in with purpose or just blasting? Pair your firefootwork with a calm strategy. When you feel the urge to rush, pause for the dink, reset, then fire again.

GEMINI: THE TWINS

Communication is your ace. The Full Moon in your sign highlights signals, partner talk, and team banter. Before leaping for that overhead smash, make sure your crew’s on the same page. Clear calls equal smooth rallies.

LEO: THE LION

Spotlight’s on! If you’ve got a holiday tourney or social event, it’s your moment to shine. But true shine happens when you help others glow too. High-five your rivals and celebrate your partners. Leadership looks good on you.

VIRGO: THE VIRGIN

Structure is your strength. Refine your routines—warmups, serves, transitions. A few mindful tweaks can elevate your whole game. Just remember: perfection isn’t the goal; purposeful play is.

LIBRA: THE SCALES

Balance is everything. With Venus stirring relationships and Mars pushing action, this is your month to blend play and practice. Keep your doubles chemistry strong by splitting your time between drills and play.

SCORPIO: THE SCORPION

Power + precision equals transformation. Let go of that old habit; maybe over-spinning your serve or chasing every lob…and focus on one upgrade. You’ll feel the shift before anyone notices.

TAURUS: THE BULL

Steady wins, and your consistency finally gets rewarded. Jupiter gives you that gentle push, so your baseline rallies shine. Lean into your signature patience: set up the point, trust your placement, and ignore the flashy players. Your grounded rhythm wins matches.

CANCER: THE CRAB

Emotions are your edge and they fuel connection this month. You’ll be drawn toward joyful, social play. Host a friendly mixer, cheer for friends, or welcome a new player. Your kindness keeps the court energy warm.

SAGITTARIUS: THE ARCHER

Your fire’s unstoppable with Mars in your sign. Go for it—just pace yourself. Channel your adventurous spirit into a fresh court challenge, but keep rest on the schedule. You play best when your joy leads, not your burnout.

CAPRICORN: THE GOAT

Your grind pays off. Fundamentals click, and results show. Use December to outline your 2026 game goals. Planning is your superpower; use it to climb higher.

AQUARIUS: THE WATER BEARER

Innovation is your game plan. Try a new spin serve, a new warm-up, or join a new open play. Your creativity keeps the community fresh and sparks new friendships along the way.

PISCES: THE FISH

Flow is your secret weapon. Let intuition guide you— that drop shot or reset you “just felt” is usually right. Protect your energy with downtime and gratitude. The new year’s current is already carrying you forward.

KEY COURT DATES: DECEMBER 2025

A PEEK AT WHAT THE PLANETS ARE UP TO AND HOW THEIR ENERGY MIGHT SHOW UP ON YOUR SIDE OF THE NET.

DEC 8:

MARS SQUARE SATURN

When fiery Mars butts heads with disciplined Saturn, things can feel like you’re pushing uphill.

On-court: You might feel impatient or tense in long rallies. Slow your pace, focus on placement, and remember that patience is a power move.

DEC 14: MARS SQUARE NEPTUNE

Mars brings action; Neptune brings dreams. When they clash, the line between focus and fuzziness blurs.

On-court: Expect a few mixed signals or “wait, whose serve?” moments. Take an extra beat before each point, confirm the score, and keep your humor handy.

DEC 24: VENUS ENTERS CAPRICORN

Venus (connection and pleasure) moves into Capricorn (discipline and goals). Love gets practical, and passion meets structure.

On-court: Perfect time to set new goals. Refine your serve routine, build consistency, or commit to that tournament you’ve been eyeing.

DEC 29: FULL MOON IN CANCER

The year ends on a sentimental note. Cancer energy stirs gratitude, family, and reflection.

On-court: Lean into your pickleball ‘ohana. Host a friendly round robin, celebrate how far you’ve come, and let the good vibes roll into 2026.

THE BLACK FRIDAY GIFT EDIT

THOUGHTFUL FINDS FOR EVERY KIND OF PICKLEBALLER

This season’s edit is all about meaningful giving and effortless style. From refined essentials to small indulgences, each pick reflects the joy, connection, and aloha that make pickleball more than a game—it’s a way we share a little happiness with the people we love.

GIFTS FOR HER

Dress – Tory Burch

Sporty, feminine, and designed for movement—this sleek racerback dress transitions effortlessly from court to café.

$330

Tennis Pro Climacool

Dress – Adidas

CLICK THE PRODUCT TITLES TO VISIT THE WEBSITES!

Breathable, moisture-wicking, and made for performance— this court dress keeps you cool through every rally.

$120

The Roger Pro – On Co-designed with Roger Federer, these lightweight court shoes deliver precision, speed, and Swiss-engineered style.

$220

it’s time to cozy up in this ultra-soft zip—perfect for cool-down coffee runs or post-match lounging.

$138

Varley

A polished layer with a relaxed fit, this cropped fleece jacket blends sporty structure with understated luxury.

$158

Performance Off-Duty Cap – Alo Yoga

Lightweight, breathable, and effortlessly cool—this cap takes you from morning drills to errands in true Alo style.

$68

Sporty Stripe Pickleball

Backpack – Mark & Graham

One of my favorite brands— this sleek, customizable backpack combines classic style with pickleball-ready function.

$169

Tan Leather Visor – Fenix Sportier

Equal parts sporty and chic, this handmade leather visor is the ultimate statement piece for sunny court days.

$150

Cooling Apollo

Performance Hat – Mission

Stay cool through every rally— this temperature-regulating hat wicks away heat and sweat in style.

$42.99

GIFTS FOR HIM

Rhone

A polished, performancedriven polo that transitions seamlessly from court to casual Friday.

$98

Dinking

& Driving

Performance Polo –Swinton Pickleball

Play hard, laugh harder—this fun, breathable polo brings personality to your pickleball wardrobe.

$65

CLICK THE PRODUCT TITLES TO VISIT THE WEBSITES!

The Dink Master Pro –Enhance Pickleball

At-home training wall with honeycomb aluminum core and two-sided targets to sharpen dinks, volleys, and reaction time.

$249.99

Crosscourt Short – Vuori

A lightweight, stretch short built for every move on and off the court—Vuori’s comfort never misses.

$94

Pickleball Drop Shot Trainer – BOSSpickle

Pocket-friendly drop-shot trainer with a tension-relief cord that helps groove touch and muscle memory anywhere.

$29.99

Court Caddy Pickleball Bag – Forwrd

We gave one of these away at our Anniversary Celebration— it’s the ultimate all-in-one court companion.

$325

CHIC LITTLE LUXURIES (UNDER $200)

Pickleball Lucite Tray –Katie Kime

Serve up style with this chic lucite tray featuring playful pickleball prints—perfect for entertaining.

$118

Pickleball Paddle Earrings – Spartina 449

Lightweight gold paddle earrings that add a playful sparkle to your outfit.

$36

Anatomy of Pickleball Coasters – Uncommon Goods

An art-inspired coaster set that brings pickleball to your coffee table.

$45

Pickleball Paddle Plush Dog Toy – Nordstrom

Because your pup deserves pickleball in their life too. $18.95

The Hawaii Paddle – Helios Pickleball

A sleek paddle inspired by the place we call home. $199

SPLURGE-WORTHY LUXE

Pickleball Bag – TUMI

TUMI’s signature travel craftsmanship meets pickleball practicality in this refined, compact carry.

$495

Titan ONE Pickleball Machine – Pickleball Central

The ultimate training partner—this smart ball machine simulates match play with precision, consistency, and fun.

$2,299

18K

Gold Pickleball Racket Necklace – Roberto Coin

A stunning 18K gold pendant for the player who sparkles on and off the court.

$1,360

CLICK THE PRODUCT TITLES TO VISIT THE WEBSITES!

Pickleball Pendant – Miss Diamond Ring

A timeless diamond pendant that adds effortless elegance to any look—whether it’s courtside or cocktail hour.

$1,500

Pickleball Diamond Bracelet – Jenna Blake

For kicks and giggles—it’s called a pickleball bracelet, but it’s really a jaw-dropping, 18K gold and diamond masterpiece that redefines luxury.

$23,600

Forza Dan Lam Canvas 1 Paddle –

A limited-edition paddle that doubles as art— designed to turn heads and elevate your game.

STOCKING STUFFERS UNDER $50

Personalized Pickleball Ornament – Etsy

A festive little keepsake to commemorate your pickleball crew—perfect for gifting or your own tree.

$11.99

The

Original Paddle Eraser

Wipes away ball fuzz and grime so your paddle looks new again.

$14.99

Elta MD Tinted Moisturizing Mineral Sunscreen for Face SPF 50

The sunscreen I use— lightweight, dermatologistapproved, and Hawaii-sun tested.

$45

Pickleball Wrapping Paper

Pickleball wrapping paper adds instant joy to any present. $6.99

Swig Life 22oz Iced Coffee Cup Insulator Sleeve

Keep your caffeine fuel cold (and cute!) with this neoprene sleeve made just for pickleball lovers. $14.95

PickleBrella – Folding Pickleball Umbrella

Rain can’t stop the games— this compact umbrella keeps you covered with pickleball flair. $47.95

Super comfy and built to last—you’ll want to gift these to your pickleball besties (and snag a pair for yourself).

$17

The Lighter Side of Pickleball 2026 Day-toDay Calendar

A smile a day—filled with trivia, tips, and funny toons that make each morning a little brighter.

$14.39

Franklin Glow in the Dark Pickleballs

Night games, anyone? Charge them under light, then light up your evening rallies. $7.99

CLICK THE PRODUCT TITLES TO VISIT THE WEBSITES!

Aloha Plays Here Tee

Freshly unveiled and designed for players who carry the aloha spirit wherever they play. Simple, timeless, and made to remind us that aloha always leads the way.

HAWAII PICKLEBALL MAGAZINE

RELEASE DATE: 1ST WEEK OF DECEMBER

BONUS PICK

4-Foot Portable

Pickleball Net – Small Court Practice Set

Practice anywhere— driveway, park, or even indoors—with this compact 4-foot training net.

$99.95

SOME LINKS IN THIS GUIDE ARE AFFILIATE LINKS, WHICH MEANS IF YOU PURCHASE THROUGH THEM, WE MAY EARN A SMALL COMMISSION—AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU. MAHALO FOR SUPPORTING HAWAII PICKLEBALL MAGAZINE AND OUR PICKLEBALL COMMUNITY!

THE GRATITUDE WALL GIVING THANKS, PICKLEBALL STYLE

Pickleball brings us together in the best ways, and this Thanksgiving, we’re celebrating those connections with notes of gratitude from players across our community.

“Jared organizes play and sets up nets and tents for us nearly every day in Hilo, and sometimes multiple times a day! Thank you for all of your effort, Jared!”

— Lee, Hilo

“To Steve Vergara, Irene White, Paredes family and Tony V-- Steve for turning me on to this awesome addicting game, Irene for her words of encouragement and for hooking me up with the incredible instructors The Paredes. To Tony V for inviting me to drill and tips on becoming a better player. To all of Mahiko for the friendship and awesome games.”

— Soony K., Waipahooo

GRATITUDE WALL

“To my Waena and Kipapa group — I appreciate all of them for making my pickleball journey a fun and enjoyable one.”

— Lin Murao, Mililani

“To Team Chillaxin Pickleball, My AWESOME Students & Friends — you make pickleball life fun, purposeful, and help me to continue to grow personally and as a player/coach!”

— Coach P, O‘ahu

“So grateful for our amazing Hawai‘i pickleball community — our ambassadors, readers, and friends who bring the aloha spirit to every court and every conversation.”

— Jen Wilson, Honolulu

“To Kevin and

Sweet Potato & Chickpea Hummus with Roasted Vegetables

INSTRUCTIONS:

For Tortilla Chips and Roasted Chickpeas:

1. Place the tortilla wedges and boiled chickpeas separately on a baking tray. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt, black pepper, and cayenne, and toss to coat. Keep them apart on the tray and roast for 5–6 minutes, until crisp. Set aside.

NOTE: I like to put cut up tortilla wedges into the air fryer. Works just as well as baking but it may take several batches based on your air fryer capacity.

For Roasted Vegetables:

2. Toss the carrot, zucchini, and celery sticks with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 390°F for 20 minutes until tender but still slightly firm. Set aside.

For Hummus:

3. Wash the sweet potatoes and roast them at 390°F for 25–30 minutes, until soft. Let cool slightly, then peel.

4. Peel the boiled chickpeas by gently rubbing them in a bowl of water until the skins float to the surface.

5. In a blender, combine the roasted sweet potato, chickpeas, garlic, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, cumin, and black pepper. Add ¼ cup boiling water (or reserved chickpea liquid) and blend until smooth and creamy. Transfer to a shallow serving bowl and use the back of a spoon to create soft swirls on the surface.

For Serving:

Drizzle the hummus with olive oil and garnish with parsley, if desired. Top with roasted chickpeas and serve with tortilla chips and roasted vegetables.

Kihei — The Maui pickleball community turned out in force on October 28, 2025, for the groundbreaking of Aloha Pickleball's new 18-court facility in the Kihei Research & Technology Park—right next to Maui Brewing Company and across from the soon-toopen Hilton Hotel.

EVENT RECAP

Plans for the Aloha Pickleball complex include 16 tournament courts, one grandstand court, and one championship court, with eight covered and shaded for all-weather play. The venue will also feature a fully stocked pro shop, shaded viewing areas, private box seating, and plenty of spaces to relax between games. Thanks to a partnership with Maui Brewing Company, players can enjoy refreshments just steps from the courts.

EVENT RECAP

At the ceremony, organizers also announced the launch of Paddle Forward Pickleball, a new 501(c) (3) nonprofit with the tagline “Serving Youth One Game at a Time.” The group’s mission is to make pickleball accessible for every child. They’ve already raised over $20,000 and plan to host their first youth day camp this December in Lahaina.

EVENT RECAP

The complex is slated to open in February 2027, with plans to host local, pro, and international tournaments—and welcome players from around the world to experience the friendliest place to play pickleball.