IKONA FREITAS ON COMING HOME: RETURNING TO THE COMMUNITY THAT SHAPED HIM, AND FINDING NEW PURPOSE ON THE PICKLEBALL COURT
ALOHA PLAYS HERE. ALL LOCAL. ALWAYS.
PROUDLY PUBLISHED BY HAWAII PICKLEBALL MEDIA GROUP
THIS MONTH’S ISSUE COMES WITH AN EXTRA DOSE OF GRATITUDE FOR THE PEOPLE WHO MAKE IT ALL HAPPEN BEHIND THE SCENES.
REF TRACEY BENNETT — FOR KEEPING EVERY MATCH FAIR AND FUN.
COACH KYLE PAREDES— FOR THE INCREDIBLE IQ YOU BRING TO THE GAME. DAVID WETTER — FOR CAPTURING MOMENTS THAT TELL THE STORY BETTER THAN WORDS EVER COULD.
TOGETHER, YOU HELP BRING ALOHA TO EVERY PAGE.
Photographer David Wetter capturing me taking a pic at our cover shoot.
AS THE DAYS GROW SHORTER AND THE AIR (FINALLY) FEELS JUST A TOUCH COOLER, WE FIND OURSELVES STEPPING INTO FALL... A SEASON OF GRATITUDE, REFLECTION, AND TOGETHERNESS.
This month, we share three stories that mirror those themes. One celebrates courage... the story of a pickleball player and breast cancer survivor who turned her own fight into a mission to uplift and empower others. Another highlights creativity, connection, and inspiration through the words of a fellow community member and author. And our cover story brings it all home---a celebration of belonging, of finding your place and your people, both on and off the court.
As Halloween approaches, here’s to embracing the season with costumes and candy (of course), but also with gratitude for the people who make our community what it is. Hawaii Pickleball Magazine will always be a publication for our community, by our community, and about our community.
Together, always.
With aloha, Jen Wilson Editor, Hawaii Pickleball Magazine HPM
IKONA FREITAS ON COMING HOME: RETURNING TO THE COMMUNITY THAT SHAPED HIM, AND FINDING NEW PURPOSE ON THE PICKLEBALL COURT
#AlohaFromPortugal Aloha travels to Porto
#AlohaFromTokyo Konnichiwa from the Tokyo Tower PB Courts
#CourtsideCrossover When PB meets the gridiron
1. Rick Komori with friends playing PB at the Tokyo Tower Courts
2. Amy and Rommel Ventura with the Nuiks Pickleball Porto Group (Porto, Portugal)
3. HPM Ambassador Sandra Kobayashi with University of Hawaii QB Micah Alejado (who plays PB!)
Even when you know it’s coming, you can’t stop it— the overhead-angle smash Ikona is known for, his favorite shot. “I do [an] overhead angle… it’s off the court, getting people to the fence,” he says. It’s a move that captures one side of him—the competitor. The other shows up off the court, guiding students and shaping futures at Kamaile Academy in Waianae, the West Side community that raised him. Both courts, one of play and one of purpose, keep him rooted in the place he calls home.
Born and raised in Waianae, Ikona stayed close to home through school—Kamaile Elementary, Waianae Intermediate, and Waianae High. Sports were the steady thread through those years. “During high school, I played tennis, tried soccer here and there, did cross country, but tennis was my main sport,” he says. He picked up a racket at age seven and never really put it down. He played JTT, HTL, and USTA through his teens, spending weekends traveling to tournaments across the islands.
But sports weren’t his only focus. At Waianae High, Ikona joined Searider Productions, the nationally recognized media academy that introduced him to news writing, broadcasting, and storytelling. “I was into media, news writing, journalism. Originally, my plan was to be a journalist,” he says. “That’s why I majored in communications.”
After years of junior tournaments and USTA leagues, college tennis seemed like the natural next step. Ikona headed to the University of Hawaii at Hilo —“I was going to be a walk-on,” he says, “but I was living the college life… more in party mode,” and he ended up quitting his freshman year.
By senior year, though, he felt the pull back to the court. “I didn’t want to leave with any regrets,” he says. “And another reason why I joined the team in senior year was because a lot of the kids that I played with in junior tennis came up their freshman year. So it made me want to join the team because I knew the majority of the team that year was local, from Hawaii.”
That season reminded him how much he valued being part of a team and his love of competition. “It was a good year for sure. I had a really good time playing on the team.”
Off the court, Ikona studied communications, drawn to conversation and storytelling even before he knew where they’d lead. “I didn’t know if I wanted to do local news or if I wanted to do more editorial,” he says. “It was a mixture of things, because I was really into conversations, dialogue, and I enjoyed writing. English language arts was one of my strengths. I enjoyed all of that, but I didn’t really have a specific area of focus.”
Ikona spent his summers back home on Oahu, working for the City and County’s Summer Fun program. “That’s when I started working with kids,” he says. “And, you know, the first couple summers, I didn’t like it.”
That changed as college went on. “It kind of just changed… I did a 360,” he says, laughing. Somehow
along the way, he realized how much he enjoyed mentoring, teaching, and connecting with kids.
Those summers quietly planted the seed for what would come next. When he graduated, his path didn’t lead back to the tennis court. Instead, it led him home, and into the classroom.
After graduating from UH Hilo in May 2011, Ikona started job-hunting right away. One posting caught his eye. His old elementary school, just five minutes from his house, was hiring a P.E. teacher.
He applied, but didn’t get it.
Instead, they offered him a position as an Educational Assistant (EA). “Long story short, they ended up sticking me with the high schoolers at Kamaile Academy, which is where I work now,” he says. “I was fresh out of college, 21 years old.”
“I remember the first day I went to work,” he says. “I sat in a class, and one of the students actually thought I
Photo: David Wetter
was a student. She asked, ‘What school you came from?’ And I said, ‘I’m an EA—I’m your EA.’”
He worked as an EA for one year, then moved into the Learning Center, supporting both middle and high school students for two more years. By his fourth year, he was ready to try something new. “I ended up applying for an elementary teaching position, and I got it.”
Ikona taught fourth grade for three years while earning his master’s degree in education from the University of Phoenix. He later moved up with his students to sixth grade, teaching that level for another three years. “I kind of looped and followed my students,” he says. After that came eighth grade, during the pandemic year, and then a promotion.
“When the Dean of Students position opened, I got it,” he says. “It was for pre-K to 12.” He served in that role for four years before another door opened just this past year: a Vice Principal position at Kamaile Academy’s high school. “So I started there in high school, and now I’m back as the high school Vice Principal,” he says. “It’s pretty cool.”
When asked whether he’d always planned to return to Kamaile, Ikona admits the decision was mostly practical at first. “When I was 21 years old, I was just looking for a job. I didn’t really think about it.”
That perspective shifted with time. “Now I think about it—this is my home. I belong here.”
Coming back to Kamaile has meant reconnecting with the very people who helped shape him. “The coolest thing about coming back is seeing some of the staff who were there when I was a kid,” he says.
“It’s so fun to hear how proud they are of me—they’ll say, ‘you started from a kid to being an educational assistant to a teacher to a dean, and now you’re VP.’”
He now walks the same halls as both student and leader. The teachers and staff who once guided him now greet him as a colleague, while his own students grow up before his eyes. “It’s so cool to see a lot of my students now as adults,” he says. “I get invited to baby’s first lūʻaus, to weddings. It’s that full circle. That’s the best part.”
And as for what’s next? “A lot of them ask me, ‘what’s next…Principal?’ and I’m like, oh, no, I don’t think I can do that,” he says. “I still like to live my best life, you know? I like to enjoy life outside of school. You have to separate the two—personal and professional.”
After more than a decade in the classroom, Ikona still finds meaning in the work. “Do I love it? Yes, I do,” he says. “These past few years, I’ve been kind of debating if I still wanted to be in education or do something different. But it’s hard to get away from it because you love it so much.”
Last days as Dean of Students
“BEING ABLE TO EDUCATE THE YOUTH AND ALSO BE SOMEBODY THAT THEY CAN LOOK UP TO, LIKE A MENTOR, THAT’S ONE OF THE MAIN REASONS I WENT INTO TEACHING. I’M BLESSED TO BE AN EDUCATOR ON THE WEST SIDE, BECAUSE I WAS ONE OF THEM GROWING UP.”
Even after college, tennis remained a big part of Ikona’s life. “That first year I came fresh out of college, I played USTA league and we ended up going to nationals in Arizona. I think we got fourth place. That was fun.”
But not long after that, everything changed. “After a year or two, I tore my meniscus,” he says. “I remember I had a match one day, and then I ended up coming home and I just did a wrong turn and I heard a snap.”
The injury required surgery and marked the end of his tennis days.
Years passed. And then COVID hit. “Like most people, I discovered pickleball during COVID,” he says.
The invitation came from his Uncle Jordan, who texted him one day to play at Geiger Park. “He said, ‘Hey, come play pickleball with us’, and I thought…what is pickleball? That sounds dumb.” He went anyway. The scoring confused him that first time, and pickleball didn’t quite click. But Ikona isn’t one to quit after a single try. He went out again, and the second time, he was hooked.
“Wait, I actually like it,” he remembers thinking. “It was a good workout because we were stuck indoors for almost a year. Pickleball was a little cheat code, because I was leaving home, getting exercise, and meeting people.”
Soon after, he was at Mahiko Park several times a week. He was hooked, or as he puts it, “addicted to pickleball.”
Once he discovered pickleball, it didn’t take long for Ikona’s competitive instincts to kick in. His first tournament came in late 2021 at Turtle Bay, where he played mixed doubles with his cousin Anuhea. “We placed, and after that I started getting more serious,” he says.
In 2022, he entered more than twenty tournaments, including several on the mainland. “I told myself I didn’t want to move up until I got gold for that division,” he says. “And I didn’t count local tournaments—I would only count mainland tournaments.”
Even with a tennis background, though, he had plenty to learn. “Dinking was horrible,” he admits, laughing. “I did not like to dink—I would want to speed up every single thing. I feel like I still kind of do that today, but a little bit more controlled now.”
Still, the competition kept him hooked. He climbed from 3.5 to 4.0, and after earning gold, moved up again. “2023 was when I moved up to 4.5 because I got my gold in 4.0,” he says. “2023 was a pretty good year.”
As his game improved, so did his dedication. Evenings at Mahiko became routine, and weekends often meant hours on the court with players who pushed him to be better. “Once I started playing more tournaments, I started meeting more people,” he says. “Some days it would be all day, just playing, training, and drilling.”
Juggling two demanding worlds took balance and support. Ikona used personal leave to compete in mainland tournaments, something his school encouraged. “My principal said, ‘Go. Do what you gotta do…but make sure you come back to work,’” he says with a laugh.
His schedule quickly filled with both commitments. He spent his days teaching and handling school administration, and his evenings training and competing in tournaments. “Back in 2023, I would play three to five times a week,” he says. “Now, in the position I’m in, not as much. But I try to play at least once a week, sometimes up to three. I try.”
After a strong 2023 season, Ikona carried that momentum into 2024. He earned gold in the ProMoneyball division at the NVZ Hawaiʻi Invitational, followed by another gold in Men’s Doubles 5.0 (Age 35–49) at the PPA Tour: Select Medical Orange County Cup. He also brought home silver in Mixed Doubles 5.0 (Open Age) at the Aloha Pickleball Games & Festival, continuing to build consistency and confidence across multiple events.
Those performances set the stage for a standout 2025. He kicked off the year in winning form, taking gold in Men’s Doubles 5.0 (Open) at the Maui PukaBall Tournament in January—a result that helped propel him into higher-level mainland play.
In August, he teamed up with Gregory Zukeran for the PPA Las Vegas Indoor Open, where the pair made Top 8 out of 25 teams, battling against several players who regularly compete in pro qualifiers. Two months later, he returned to Maui for the Maui Open, where he and partner James Thorpe finished with silver, narrowly falling to Keven Wong and David Bieger in a hardfought 5.0 final.
Pickleball has become his outlet, offering balance to the long days and steady demands of school leadership. Now in his first year as vice principal, he plays less often but still finds time to train and compete.
He dreams of playing abroad one day, with Japan at the top of his list, and hopes to see pickleball introduced to schools. “If you look at what pickleball has done for many people, just getting healthy, having some type of physical activity, I think it could definitely change that for kids today.”
From the courts to the halls of Kamaile, Ikona’s story is one of return, of pride, connection, and growth. Grounded in the community that shaped him, he continues to lead, play, and lift others as proof that sometimes the truest success comes from finding your way home.
He reflects on the people who made that journey possible. “I’m the person I am today because of my parents,” he says. “And of course, my circle now—my pickleball friends, my friends from work, my students. They’ve all helped make me who I am.”
That circle of family, mentors, friends, and students keeps him grounded and reminds him that every win, whether on the court or in the classroom, is shared with the community that raised him. HPM
PADDLE: SELKIRK INVIKTA
FAVORITE SHOT: OVERHEAD ANGLE SMASH
DREAM PARTNER: PETE SAMPRAS
FAVORITE PLACE TO PLAY: NEWPORT BEACH, CA
DREAM DESTINATION: JAPAN
FAVORITE FOOD: RAW CRAB FROM TAMURA’S
FAVORITE MORNING BEVERAGE: TROPICAL DRAGON
SMOOTHIE FROM JAMBA JUICE
In this quick tip, learn how to swing smart from every part of the court. Discover how much energy and motion you really need, whether you’re at the baseline, mid-court, or NVZ, to stay consistent, accurate, and in control. HPM
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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.
Q: Readers, this scenario happened twice on my court last month. After an end change and a side out, the wrong server served. If it happened to us, it’s probably happened to you too. Or will. It’s complicated, so I’ll do my best to untangle it for you.
1. My team won the point, and we changed ends at 6-4-2.
2. We served and lost the next rally. Side out.
3. Betty served at 4-6-1, and she scored a point. The score was 5-6-1.
4. But something didn’t look right. Ah! Betty was in the wrong position. When her score was even, she should have been on the left side, not serving.
5. How do we fix that? Who should be serving now?
6. And does Team Betty keep their point? We have to start there, knowing what the score is.
Rulebook 4.B.10. If the correct server and correct receiver are in their correct positions when the score is called, it is a fault on a player who serves or receives incorrectly, even if the rally is completed before the fault is called. The fault must be called before the next serve. If the correct server or correct receiver is not in their correct position when the score is called, the referee or a player may stop the rally in progress to identify the player/position error and the rally shall be replayed. If the correct server or correct receiver is not in their correct position when the score is called and the rally is played out, the rally shall stand.
Even though Betty was the incorrect server, her team keeps the point. It’s 5-6-1.
Where should Betty be standing now? She was not the starting server, so with a score of 5, she needs to be in the right-hand court.
Let’s pause here to review terms because starting server and first server are the most misused terms in all of pickleball.
* The Starting Server is the player who FIRST serves for their team at the beginning of the game. When their score is even, he or she will always be on the right side of the court. Always. Remember this person for the whole game.
* Rulebook 4.B.6.c. After each side out, service begins with the player correctly positioned on the right/even side of the court according to the team’s score. This player is referred to as “First Server” and the partner is “Second Server.”
Got all that?
Next question: who was the correct server? Their score at side out was 4, so it was Betty‘s partner, Barbara, who was the starting server and who should have been the first server after side out.
Barbara serves from the left side court at 5-6-1
When they lose a rally, it’s second server: Betty (yes, again).
Still with me? Good job!
You might be wondering, since I’m a referee, shouldn’t I always know when players are out of position? Yup. But I have to pay attention. To help myself out when I’m courtside, I painted a big P for Position on my referee server clip. But it only helps when I look at it. Last month I was a player without my clipboard and crutch.
If you find it difficult to keep track, consider wearing starting server bands, even when playing rec. The nicest thing about wearing a band? Your opponents will watch and help keep you in the right place as well!
Bottom line: we all have to pay attention. Good luck with that.
***What’s happening on your court? Did you have some issues? Confusions? Conflicts? If you don’t find answers in the 2025 Rulebook, email me.
Hawaii need more refs, so how about you? Are you good with details? Quick thinking? Even tempered? Decisive? Let’s chat: tracey2@hawaii.rr.com Cheers!
Tracey
When talking about general strength training principles, progressive overload is paramount. This refers to the need to slowly increase the stress placed on the body’s muscles and nervous system so they can adapt and get stronger over time.
Within progressive overload, two of the most effective components that you can control are the Load (weight lifted) and Range of Motion (how far you move).
Unfortunately, many popular/classic abdominal exercises (ie. sit ups, crunches, plank and side plank), miss the mark in regards to strengthening over time.
I'd like to give you 3 alternative exercises to level up your abdominal strength and improve your swing speed on the pickleball court!
(Note: for recommended exercises 1 and 3, No cable machine = no problem. Use a resistance band and increase the difficulty as you get stronger!)
Try these 3 moves to Level Up your Game! Reach out to discuss all things 6 pack!
Aloha, Dr. Dan Munkley
Sit ups are limited in your ability to increase load over time. You are forever crunching your own bodyweight, with diminishing returns by simply doing more and more repetitions.
Cable Crunch: Allow your body to arch in the starting position and then crunch against the weight (back should be rounded at the bottom position to ensure full contraction)
**This exercise allows you to increase load (weight used) and track progress over time.**
Planks are limited in range of motion. Additionally, the limiting factor is often global/upper extremity fatigue instead of abdominal fatigue.
Mountain climber: Start in plank position and then slowly raise 1 knee towards the opposite elbow, continue in alternating fashion.
**This exercise increases the range of motion demand on the lower abdominals as they contract (shorten) and lengthen throughout the exercise.**
Side planks are limited in range of motion as well as their ability to add load (weight) over time.
Cable chop: Start in a tall position, crunch laterally until your chest bone is directly over your front foot.
**This exercise allows for increased range of motion and load (weight) challenge as you get stronger!**
Introducing Irene White— one of my very first classmates when I started learning the game, and one of my earliest pickleball friends.
Fast forward to today, and Irene’s still out there making moves. Just last weekend, she brought home a Bronze medal at the St. George Pickleball Fall Brawl 2025, teaming up with partner Albert Lee.
When I spotted her recently at a clinic, I couldn’t help but notice her colorful, luggage-inspired pickleball bag—and had to ask about it. That’s when she introduced me to Labubu, a pop culture craze I knew nothing about (clearly, I need to up my trend game!).
Curious what else Irene’s carrying these days? Let’s take a look inside her bag.
Ever wonder what your fellow players are carrying to the courts? What’s in Your Bag? gives you a peek inside the gear (and personality) of local pickleballers—from paddles to lucky charms and everything in between.
Q: What brand is your pickleball bag, and what do you like about it?
Zuca - I love this bag because it holds a ton of my pickleball stuff that is pretty heavy. The design with the wheels saves my back from having to carry it AND the padded top doubles as a chair!
What shoes are you playing with?
New Balance Coco CG2. You never have to break them in and provides both comfort and support. What paddle do you use and why did you choose it?
Joola Magnus IV 14mm. I’m partial to the elongated paddle shapes and this has a shorter handle since I play with a one-handed backhand. It provides added power and reach.
Any accessories?
I just started using the Trigger on my grip. It provides extra stability when I am driving the ball. What snacks and drinks keep you energized on the court?
I always have various protein bars and jerky. It helps with keeping my energy up during open/league play and tournaments.
Any lucky charm or a quirky or sentimental item you carry with you?
My Labubu I named Lulu: Lululemon Labubu. My women's PB partner Toni Fujinaga made my Labubu a pickleball jumper that matches her Labubu. Toni even made me a Labubu hand sanitizer carrier.
What’s the one item you can’t live without on the court?
My Jisulife handheld fan. It is the most powerful handheld fan and cools me down quickly so I can continue to play comfortably! HPM
REVIEW by Jen Wilson, Editor
We tried two of Amazon’s top-rated pickleball glasses to see how they actually hold up on the court.
As the game gets faster, and let’s be honest, as every opponent seems to be a banger — eye protection is becoming more important than ever. I recently went down the Amazon rabbit hole in search of the best pickleball glasses, and two top-rated options kept popping up.
Interestingly, most of the “pickleball glasses” that appear in Amazon searches aren’t made specifically for pickleball — they’re actually high-performance safety or sports glasses that happen to fit the bill for protection, comfort, and visibility. The two that stood out were:
These looked the most like regular glasses — aesthetically, I preferred this one. They fit comfortably width-wise, though they might be a bit large for players with smaller faces.
They performed great: no fogging, even during long play sessions. I wore them indoors and outdoors, and as the evening light faded, I noticed a subtle yellow tint, which wasn’t distracting until I compared them side-byside without the lenses.
The side guards offer extra protection but can make things feel a bit warmer. And as someone with a flatter nose bridge, I liked that they rested on my face rather than sliding down my nose. It did, however, leave a mark on one cheek after wearing it for a few hours.
Bottom line: Great coverage and clarity with a more “everyday glasses” look — just expect it to feel warm and a slight color shift at dusk.
These have a sportier vibe, more “cyclist” than “casual.” The open sides made them noticeably cooler than the NoCry pair, and they didn’t fog up once.
The nose pads, however, weren’t my favorite. I found myself adjusting them often to sit lighter on my nose. For most players, this might not be an issue as you might already be used to the feel of nose pads. Visibility was excellent, with no distortion or tinting.
Bonus points for coming with a sturdy zippered case and interchangeable strap, especially at under twenty bucks.
Bottom line: Sleek, breathable, lightweight and sporty.
Both pairs did their job well: excellent visibility, no fogging, and solid protection. If you prefer something that looks and feels like regular glasses, go for the NoCry. If you lean toward the sporty, lightweight feel, the ROCKBROS might be your match.
As someone with a wider face and minimal nose bridge, both fit comfortably — but it’s worth testing which style suits your comfort and play style best. Either way, as pickleball rallies get faster and balls fly harder, investing in proper eye protection is one of the smartest, easiest and cheapest upgrades you can make.
Curious to try these out for yourself? Here are the exact pairs I tested:
» NoCry High Performance Safety Glasses
» ROCKBROS Pickleball Glasses
As an Amazon Associate, Hawaii Pickleball Magazine may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases — at no additional cost to you. Your support helps us keep creating community-driven, player-tested reviews like this one. Mahalo!
light, protein-packed
Serving: 6 | Prep Time: 30 minutes
This isn’t your average pasta salad…you know, the one where you drench noodles and veggies in Italian dressing and call it a day. This version blends Greek yogurt with just enough mayo for creaminess to give you a little extra protein boost. Add tender chicken and crisp veggies, and you’ve got the perfect dish for after game potlucks or a quick weeknight dinner.
■ 16 oz. (1 box) pasta
■ 2 C. bell pepper, diced small
■ 1 C. pickles, diced small
■ 1 can sweet corn
■ 1 C. frozen peas, thawed or lightly cooked
■ 2 1/2 C. chicken, boiled
■ ¼ C. dill, finely chopped
■ 2 C. greek yogurt
■ 6 tbsp light mayonnaise
■ 2 tbsp olive oil
■ 1 tbsp mustard
■ 1 tsp salt
1. Cook the pasta in salted boiling water according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and let cool slightly.
2. Shred or dice the boiled chicken into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the yogurt, mayonnaise, olive oil, mustard, and salt until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the cooled pasta, chicken, bell pepper, pickles, corn, chopped dill, and peas. Toss gently until everything is evenly coated with the dressing.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Transfer to a serving bowl. Serve chilled, garnished with extra chopped dill. HPM
PICKLEBALL PASSPORT IS OUR WINDOW INTO THE GAME AROUND THE WORLD — SHORT SNAPSHOTS OF PLAYERS, COURTS, AND COMMUNITIES THAT REMIND US HOW ONE SPORT CONNECTS US ACROSS CULTURES.
From Tokyo to Hawaii, the game speaks the same language. This is the second installment of our Tokyo Voices series, where we spotlight pickleball players in Japan and their shared love for the game. Thanks to one of our ambassadors traveling in
Tokyo, Toshiko Jager, we had the chance to connect with local players and hear their stories firsthand.
Through these short interviews, we caught a glimpse of what the sport means in Japan. Here are two of those voices.
How did you discover pickleball?
知人の紹介
Introduced by an acquaintance
What do you love most about pickleball?
年齢関係なくプレーできるところ
Anyone can play regardless of age
What’s your favorite shot?
ドロップショット。上手くきまった時 は気持ちがいい
Drop shot. It feels good when I hit it well
How often do you play?
Do you play regularly here?
週１－４回。スギックルと武蔵野ピッ クルボール
1-4 times a week. Sugikkuru and Musashino Pickleball
Have you played pickleball anywhere else in the world?
無し
No
What paddle are you using today?
Honolulu Pickleball Company J3
What advice would you give to someone playing for the first time?
生涯のスポーツとして一緒にたのしん でいけるとよいですね。
I hope we can enjoy it together as a lifelong sport.
How did you discover pickleball?
知人から体験会に誘われて I was invited to a trial session by an acquaintance.
What do you love most about pickleball?
皆で楽しくプレーできるし、試合 では勝負もできること。
Everyone can play together and have fun, and you can even compete in matches.
What’s your favorite shot?
特に無し Nothing in particular
How often do you play?
Do you play regularly here? 週２－３回。スギックルのみ 2-3 times a week. Only with Sugikkuru group
Have you played pickleball anywhere else in the world?
無し No
What paddle are you using today?
Honolulu Pickleball Company J3
What advice would you give to someone playing for the first time?
テニス経験者の方：すぐに上 手になります。
テニスやラケット競技を未経 験の方：すぐにゲームをでき てたのしいです。私もラケッ ト競技は苦手でしたが、練習 して、大会にも挑戦していま す。
Tennis players: You will get better quickly. Players with no tennis or racket sports experiences: You can still play the game right away and have fun. I was not good at racket sports either, but I practiced and am now competing in tournaments.
What paddle are you using and why did you choose it?
Honolulu Pickleball Company J3
持っている方に使わせていただ き、良かったから。
I liked it after trying someone else’s J3
Do you carry any go-to snacks or drinks?
飴やチョコレート。麦茶かコーヒ ー
Candy or chocolate. Barley tea or coffee
Any unique items (lucky charms, etc.) in your bag?
好きなキャラクター（くりまんじ ゅう）のキーホルダー
Keychain with my favorite character (kurimanju)
What shoes do you wear on the court?
Asics
Sore joints? Muscle aches?
Game-day nerves?
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Chances are, you know someone who’s been affected by breast cancer— a co-worker, a friend, a family member. This month offers a chance to stand up and stand out for the people we love and to let our support be both seen and felt. Whether it’s through wearing pink on the court or showing up for a cause that hits close to home, every gesture matters.
Next month, that spirit continues with the Dink in Pink Pickleball Tournament in Kona, hosted by Breast Cancer Hawaii, a grassroots nonprofit founded by local survivors and dedicated to uplifting Hawaii’s breast cancer community. 100% of proceeds stay in Hawaii, directly supporting programs like the CARE Closet, which provides wigs and prosthetics to patients; Thrive Lounge, a pop-up connection space for survivors; and Keiki Care Kits, created for children whose parents are in treatment.
Whether you’re playing, cheering, or simply thinking of someone you love, every act of support reminds our community that we’re stronger together.
Dates: November 15-16, 2026
Location: Holua Racquet and Paddle: 78-7190 Kaleiopapa St, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
Why: This event will help Breast Cancer Hawaii fund support programs for local patients, survivors, and thrivers impacted by breast cancer.
Fee: $80 for one event, $110 for two events
Format: Men’s, Women’s, Mixed (Round Robin)
Levels: 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5+
Event Schedule:
• 8:00-8:30 AM: Check-in
• 8:30-8:45 AM: Tournament Rules
• 8:45-9:00 AM: Matches Begin (All divisions begin at the same time)
Final Match Time will depend on how long each match takes. Last year, the awards ceremony started at about 2:00 PM on the first day, and 1:30 PM on the second day.
Other Information: The Hope Market will be open on both days from 9 AM - 2 PM
Accommodation Options:
• Holua Resort at the Mauna Loa Village: 78-7190 Kaleiopapa Street Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
• Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa: 78-128 Ehukai Street, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii 96740
Learn more and register for the tournament at BreastCancerHawaii.org
While pink is the color most people associate with breast cancer awareness, teal represents those living with metastatic breast cancer — the stage when cancer has spread beyond the breast. Teal stands for healing, spirituality, and strength. This month, mix teal into your game-day gear as a nod to the warriors whose battles continue beyond October.
Because showing support can look as good as it feels. From bright pink paddles to cool mint kicks, these finds bring meaning to your match.
DOONEY & BOURKE PICKLEBALL PADDLE BAG — $160
FTW: A courtside classic from an iconic brand. This luxe canvas sling has plenty of pockets and enough space for all your essentials, with a pretty pink paddle cover. dooney.com
ZERO ZERO START CROSSBODY PADDLE COVER — $75
Protect your paddle in style. This crossbody combines waterresistant canvas, padded lining, and thoughtful details like a hidden card pocket and detachable leather strap. zzstart.com
SPARTINA 449 PINK IKAT PICKLEBALL BACKPACK — $128
I have this backpack in a beautiful floral print, and it’s the perfect size… not too big, not too small, and it gets me compliments every single time. It’s pretty, it’s practical, and there’s space for paddles, keys, and everything else you need for a day on the courts.
spartina449.com
DINKING PROBLEMS “PARTY STARTER” SHORTS — $54.95
Play hard, laugh harder. These bright pink trunks are perfect for guys who never take themselves too seriously. partypantsusa.com
WOMEN’S COOL MINT PICKLEBALL SHOE — $118.99
These shoes are built for comfort and quick court movement… a pop of color that plays as good as it looks. cypherpickleball.com
HAT — $28
A sleek, modern cap. Lightweight, vented, and embroidered in 3D, because performance and polish can coexist. ethospickleball.com
HEAD BOOM TEAM EX 2024 PADDLE — $99.95
A great paddle at a price that won’t break the bank. It’s light, easy to handle, and has just the right pop for players who want performance without the pro-price tag. head.com
Atwo-time cancer survivor turned thriver,” Jafra DePontes has faced breast, thyroid, and metastatic breast cancer since her first diagnosis in 2019. Once a marriage and family therapist, she now channels her healing journey into her work as a somatic therapist and helping others find strength through breathwork and body awareness.
As a dedicated volunteer for Breast Cancer Hawai‘i, Jafra leads monthly breathwork sessions, co-planned the first Hawai‘i Island Survivor Wellness Retreat, and has helped raise more than $30,000 through the Dink in Pink Pickleball Tournament— the event she founded to bring players together in support of local cancer thrivers and survivors. Honored as Breast Cancer Hawai‘i’s 2024 Thriver of the Year, Jafra continues to inspire others to heal with courage, connection, and compassion.
In her own words, she shares how she discovered the game, what she loves about teaching, and why Dink in Pink means so much to her.
I was working as a tennis pro helping my mom with her program when a few players expressed interest in learning pickleball. I decided to learn the game myself so I could teach them how to play safely and skillfully. The transition from tennis to pickleball came naturally — I’ve always been an aggressive player who loves moving up, hitting volleys, and attacking at the net.
I love watching people stay active, laugh, and have fun on the courts. As a detail-oriented instructor, I focus on proper footwork, split-steps, and keeping volleys out in front — the fundamentals that make the game both safe and enjoyable. Most of all, I love the energy and joy that come with competition. There’s nothing better than seeing players grow in confidence and passion for the sport.
Jafra with friends after winning Breast Cancer Hawaii's Thriver of the Year
Breast Cancer Hawaii provides locally focused programs that support cancer thrivers, survivors, caregivers, and families right here in Hawai‘i — without needing to travel thousands of miles to the mainland for resources. Cancer can be isolating, and it’s so important to build relationships and community to overcome those challenges. The connections made through these local programs offer invaluable emotional support and a sense of belonging that’s vital during treatment and survivorship. I started the Dink in Pink tournament three years ago because I believe deeply in Breast Cancer Hawaii’s mission. My goal was to help the organization reach more people across our islands — and to bring the community together through a sport that’s all about connection, joy, and resilience.
On and off the court, Jafra shows what it means to play and live with purpose. HPM
Jafra and her second oldest daughter assembling pouches for survivor retreat
BETWEEN POINTS
FROM OUR NIGHTSTAND TO YOURS:
A book that inspired us this month.
It Till You Make It
By Dr. Mel Ona
Through it all, Fail It Till You Make It is both uplifting and accessible—an easy, one-hour read that’s relatable to everyone, no med school required. It’s the kind of book you’ll want to gift to anyone chasing a dream—students, young professionals, or anyone standing at the edge of their next challenge.
Reflections, passions, and projects inspired by the lives of our pickleball community
pickleball, and
the best lessons often come between points: the missed shots, the do-overs, and the bounce-back moments that build resilience. That’s the spirit behind Dr. Mel Ona’s new book, Fail It Till You Make It— an honest and heartfelt look at how persistence and selfbelief can turn rejection into redirection.
Part memoir and part journal, the book invites readers to pause and reflect, with self-reflection questions at the end of every chapter that turn his journey into a mirror for our own.
A familiar face in Hawaii’s pickleball community, Dr. Mel—one half of a pickleball couple with wife Jennifer—was actually the very first feature in the earliest iteration of Hawaii Pickleball Magazine, published on August 8, 2023.
At the time, I didn’t even know Mel was a doctor. I just knew him as a fellow student in my pickleball lessons. It wasn’t until I interviewed him for that story that I discovered his medical career and musical background. Even then, the story behind this story—the journey of struggle, grit, and quiet determination—remained quietly hidden behind the curtain.
WHERE TO FIND IT
Available now on Amazon.*
*As an Amazon Associate, we may earn a small commission from qualifying purchases—at no additional cost to you.
Behind Dr. Mel’s easy laugh lies a story of relentless perseverance. His journey to medicine wasn’t smooth—it was built on rejection letters, setbacks, and late nights fueled by determination.
In the book, he shares how he was rejected from medical school (not just once), barely passed Step 1 of the USMLE, and failed Step 2. Yet through it all, he kept showing up.
“I didn’t have the best test scores. I didn’t write the fastest notes.
But I showed up early. I stayed late. I spent more time with patients than I did with food and sleep.
I wasn’t the flashiest. But I was tenacious and consistent.
And when it came time to choose the three Chief Residents, they didn’t look for perfect grades. They looked for leaders with heart. They chose me.”
That passage made me pause—it was the kind of moment that takes your breath away. The redemption we all hope for, when heart and hard work finally tip the scales.
I loved that every chapter ends with a short call to action— “Let’s climb.” “Let’s go.” “Onward.” “Never quit.” Each one feels like an echo of the inner pep talks we should be giving ourselves when things get hard.
Dr. Mel also writes candidly about imposter syndrome—how even after becoming Chief Resident, it didn’t disappear; it simply evolved. Anyone who has ever chased a dream knows this truth: confidence isn’t the absence of fear, but the decision to keep going despite it.
“Your past does not disqualify your potential. Show up. Always. Even when it hurts. Especially when it hurts. Never quit.”
Today, Dr. Mel is the Founder and Medical Director of Ohana Gastroenterology clinic and Ohana Endoscopy Center, and currently leads the Division of Gastroenterology at Pali Momi Medical Center as its Chair and Medical Director.
Hilo’s pickleball community came together in a big way at the Doubles Dink for Cancer, held September 19–21 at Edith Kanakaole Stadium. Over 110 players hit the courts for three days of play—open games and skill challenges on Friday, men’s and women’s doubles on Saturday, and mixed doubles on Sunday—all to support the American Cancer Society.
The event, organized by Lee Wilson and his family, raised more than $13,000 for the cause. Inspired by his own cancer journey and the recent loss of both parents, Lee turned his love for pickleball into purpose. Backed by more than 40 volunteers and presenting sponsor HPM Building Supply, the tournament became a true community effort—and proof of the heart behind Hilo pickleball.
Men’s Doubles 3.0 All Ages – Gold: John Matson & Gary Lenowitz, Silver: Cash Icari & Howard Kamei, Bronze: Roy Yonashiro & Donn Ouye.
Men’s Doubles 3.5 All Ages - Gold: Allen Hess & AJ Hess, Silver: Jeff Kroh & Adam Nguyen, Bronze: Colby Maeda & Shea Uehana.
Men’s Doubles 4.0 All Ages – Gold: Otis Salmo & Kilinahe Navarro, Silver: Blake Birmingham & Jace Saplan, Bronze: Jared Ishida & Burt Izumikawa.
Men’s Doubles 4.5 All Ages – Gold: Vincent Chun & Dominic Lacagnina, Silver: Rhys Wilson & Conner Koga , Bronze: Lloyd Ishikawa & Mike Ratkovic.
Women’s Doubles 3.0 All Ages – Gold: Vicki Toews & Katy Gorman, Silver: Jaymie Cutler & Cynthia Kealahi Verschuur, Bronze: Annie Yonashiro & Dee Nishioka.
Women’s Doubles 3.5 All Ages – Gold: Carla Ah Sing & Darleen Iida, Silver: Marissa Hayashi & Macy Hayashi, Bronze: Patricia Delozier & Soul Mays.
Women’s Doubles 4.0/4.5 All Ages –Gold: Kari Hock & Mel Keolanui , Silver: Lorretta Damas & Ivory Kalber, Bronze: Sherrie Amido & Eloi Bellah.
Mixed Doubles 3.0 All Ages – Gold: Pamela Kluver & Jonathan Kluver, Silver: Annie Yonashiro & Roy Yonashiro, Bronze: Dee Nishioka & Jaime Parra.
Mixed Doubles 3.5 Under 40 – Gold: Marissa Hayashi & Kuakini Baltero, Silver: Sara Nolan & Gary Lenowitz, Bronze: Macy Hayashi & Colby Maeda.
Mixed Doubles 3.5 40+ – Gold: Soul Mays & Ken Smith, Silver: Lil Kamigaki & Hal Kamigaki, Bronze: Kim Kimi & Aisea Pouono.
Mixed Doubles 4.0 All Ages – Gold: Peter Kubota & Shakti Hoku Douglas, Silver: Kenneth Seidel & Patricia Delozier, Bronze: Lea Carey & Gabriel Vazquez.
Mixed Doubles 4.5 All Ages – Gold: Kari Hock & Dominic Lacagnina, Silver: Richard Kahalioumi & Taryn Ishida, Bronze: Lorretta Damas & Lloyd Ishikawa
October 3-5, 2025
Good vibes, great rallies, and a little friendly competition under the lights — that’s what the October K2 Pickleball Night Doubles Tournament was all about! Congrats to this month’s winners and mahalo to all who joined in the fun.
October 3-5, 2025
Everyday Player’s Paddle Review: Komodo Katana Kevlar® Pro 16MM
Real, relatable, and practical paddle + gear reviews for everyday players — through the eyes of real players, not just pros.
OAHU: November 1: Aloha International Mission Pickleball Fundraiser
OAHU: November 1: Paddle for HUGS Pickleball Tournament
OAHU: November 7-9: K2 Pickleball Night Doubles Tournament
May 17: Oahu: Hookuku Pickleball Tournament, Schofield Barracks
OAHU: November 14-15: 2025 Hawaii Active Seniors Expo Pickleball Tournament
May 24: Oahu: King Intermediate Pickleball Fundraiser, Kaneohe
KONA: November 15-16: 3rd Annual Dink in Pink Pickleball Tournament
May 17: Oahu: Hookuku Pickleball Tournament, Schofield Barracks
May 31: Oahu: Maui Wildfire Disaster Relief Pickleball Fundraiser, Honolulu
OAHU: November 22-23: Leilehua HS Project Grad Pickleball Tournament
May 24: Oahu: King Intermediate Pickleball Fundraiser, Kaneohe
KONA: November 28-29: Pickle Paw for K9’s Pickleball Tournament
May 31: Oahu: Maui Wildfire Disaster Relief Pickleball Fundraiser, Honolulu
The complete list of all upcoming tournaments and events in Hawaii
The complete list of all upcoming tournaments and events in Hawaii
• Played a sunrise match this week •
• Cheered for your opponent’s point •
• Tried a new court •
• Forgot your water bottle •
• Made a new friend on the courts •
• Read this magazine cover to cover •
• Subscribed to our newsletter (right?) •
• Told a friend to do the same •
• Got a story or a player we should feature? Let us know! •
• Know someone who’d love to connect with this community? We’d love to hear from them!
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