Meet Martina Kostalova: Building Community and Elevating Pickleball In Downtown Honolulu

Featured Pickleballer Martina Kostalova

From Slovakia to Honolulu: MaRtina Kostalova’s journey

Honolulu—Sometimes the most life-changing adventures begin with a twist of fate—and a fractured finger.

Born and raised in the High Tatras of Slovakia, Martina Kostalova first discovered pickleball in a moment of serendipity atop Oahu’s Koko Head trail. What started as a helping hand for an injured friend quickly turned into a love affair with pickleball.

Today, Martina serves as the Director of Operations at the recently opened Pickles at Forte, an indoor pickleball and social club in downtown Honolulu. Her story isn’t just about a passion for pickleball—it’s about creating spaces where the pickleball community grows stronger with every game.

Without further ado, please meet Martina Kostalova!

Currently residing in: Honolulu

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

I was born and raised in the High Tatras, Slovakia, and attended the English-Slovak Bilingual High School in Poprad.

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

I discovered pickleball about eight years ago, thanks to a twist of fate. I convinced my roommate to hike Koko Head with me, and along the way, she slipped and fractured a finger on her left hand. Being a dedicated tennis player, she couldn’t play with both hands, so she found pickleball—a sport that didn’t require a two-handed backhand. Naturally, she pulled me into it, and I’ve been hooked ever since.

You’re the Director of Operations for Pickles at Forte. What drew you to this role?

This role was a rare and exciting opportunity to be part of something groundbreaking—the first facility of its kind in Hawaii. Beyond the courts, it’s about creating a vibrant gathering place where people can play, connect, and unwind in the heart of Downtown. I was also drawn to the bigger picture—Pickles at Forte is a key part of Avalon’s broader vision to revitalize Downtown Honolulu, and being able to contribute to that larger effort made this a perfect fit for me.

Can you share a bit about the facility—what can players expect when they walk in?

Pickles at Forte is a high-energy, welcoming space from sunrise to midnight. Our staff are not only friendly but passionate players themselves, which sets the tone for an authentic and inclusive vibe. You’ll see constant laughter, competitive matches, and people simply enjoying good company. The facility offers six pickleball courts, a ping pong table, and a golf simulator—making it a hub for both serious play and casual hangouts.

What are your goals for the facility in its first year?

Our primary goal is to build a strong, connected community. This isn’t just about pickleball—it’s about creating a gathering place where people want to spend their time, whether they’re playing, socializing, or just enjoying the atmosphere. As a membership-based club, attracting players was just the first step. Now, we’re focused on keeping them engaged with fresh programming, exciting events, and a sense of belonging that keeps them coming back.

What impact do you hope this facility will have on the local pickleball community?

We want Pickles at Forte to become the beating heart of Honolulu’s pickleball scene—a place where everyone feels welcome, whether they’re seasoned players or total beginners. Our vision is to foster a strong, inclusive community that helps grow the sport by providing a top-tier space for play, connection, and learning. We also see ourselves playing a key role in introducing pickleball to more people across Honolulu and helping to establish Downtown as a center for both competitive and social play.

What do you love most about pickleball?

I love that pickleball is the ultimate social sport—it brings people together like nothing else. It’s competitive, but it’s also fun and welcoming for players at every skill level. That mix of camaraderie and competition is what makes it so special.

What do you do outside of pickleball (hobbies, pets, family, etc)?

I’m a sports enthusiast through and through—tennis, running, and working out keep me moving. I also love spending time with friends and family, enjoying the ocean, and always looking for my next adventure or project. There’s never a dull moment!

What paddle are you playing with? Why did you choose it?

I play with the Babolat MNSTR+. As a former Division 1 tennis player, Babolat has always been my brand of choice, so transitioning to their pickleball gear felt natural. I’m fortunate to still be sponsored by Babolat for both tennis and pickleball, and this paddle gives me the power, control, and feel I need to play my best game.

How often do you play?

I play 3-4 times a week—sometimes jumping into games after work, other times scheduling competitive matches. It’s a perfect balance between fun and training.

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

There are some exciting projects and personal goals I’m working on, but I’ll keep those under wraps for now. Let’s just say…stay tuned!

Anything else on your mind?

It’s incredibly exciting to be part of this journey from the very beginning. Pickles at Forte isn’t just a facility—it’s a movement to build community, bring people together, and elevate the sport of pickleball in Honolulu. I’m proud to be part of something with such potential for lasting impact, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds.