Meet Luke Lorenz: Army Doctor, D1 Tennis Alum, and Oahu Pickleball Player

May 13

Luke Lorenz, left, with doubles partner Max Tave, at the ESPN Honolulu Tournament in April 2025

From Colorado to Ko Olina, Luke Finds Joy in the Game and the People Who Play It

Ko Olina—You might spot Luke Lorenz on the courts—quick at the net, paddle in hand, and always ready with a smile. A former Division 1 tennis player at Bryant University, Luke discovered pickleball in 2020 thanks to a few friendly invitations at his old tennis club. What began as casual fun has since grown into a deeper love for the game—and for the people who play it.

Now stationed in Hawaii as an Army doctor at Tripler Army Medical Center, Luke fits in games when he can—“once a week if I’m lucky,” he says. But even with a packed schedule that includes hiking and beach days with his wife and two kids, he’s been bitten by the tournament bug. His goal for this year? Compete in as many local events as possible before his tour in Oahu wraps up in July 2028.

But what he loves most about pickleball is the people. “You can go to a new city, show up to the local pickleball courts, and instantly gain ten new friends,” he says.

As for the local scene? Luke says, “The Oahu pickleball community rocks.”

Without further ado, please meet Luke Lorenz!

Currently residing in:

Ko Olina

Where did you grow up, and what high school did you go to?

Colorado Springs; Discovery Canyon High School

How did you discover pickleball, and when did you start playing?

Members at my old tennis club invited me to play in 2020. Played casually for a few years, but started to play some tournaments in late 2023 onward.

What do you love most about pickleball?

I love the community and camaraderie around the sport. You can go to a new city, show up to the local pickleball courts, and instantly gain ten new friends.

How often do you play?

Once a week if I’m lucky!

What paddle are you using, and what do you like about it?

Currently using the Paddletek Bantam ALW-C 12.7mm. It’s light, enabling fast hands at the net.

What is the next goal you’re working toward (in pickleball or otherwise)?

Hope to play in play in as many tournaments as I can in Hawaii this year.

What do you do outside of pickleball (hobbies, work, school, etc.)?

I work as an Army doctor at Tripler Army Medical Center. Outside of work, I spend most of my time hiking or going to the beach with my wife and two kids.