From the Couch to the Court: Meet Travis Yamamoto
Pickleball Spotlight: Travis Yamamoto
A Palolo pickler helping others discover the joy of the game
Honolulu—When Travis first got talked into driving to Waipahu for a pickleball clinic back in 2016, he had no idea how much the sport would change his life. Introduced to the game by an electrical journeyman friend, he’s been “pickling” ever since.
I had the pleasure of taking a clinic with him not long ago, and he was exactly the kind of instructor you’d hope for—kind, patient, and endlessly encouraging. Even when my form was off or a ball sailed way out, he always found a way to stay positive and point out what was working.
These days, he plays and teaches when he can—usually between shifts at Pearl Harbor Shipyard and his daughters’ activities. He laughs that his kids remind him to “go touch grass,” and he’s happy to pass along that same message to his students: step outside, pick up a paddle, and just keep pickling.
Without further ado, please meet Travis “Trav” Yamamoto!
Currently residing in: Palolo.
Where did you grow up, and what high school did you go to?
Grew up in the McCully area and attended Kaimukī High School.
How did you discover pickleball, and when did you start playing?
Discovered pickleball from Jon Kurishige my electrical journeyman, who convinced me to drive to Waipahu gym to meet Heifara Ortas for an intro to pickleball clinic in 2016. Have been playing since then.
What do you love most about pickleball?
The thing I love most about pickleball is seeing how much this game has flourished throughout our islands and the world. It has connected your everyday couch potato like me to elite, professional, and upcoming athletes here on our rock as well as the U.S. and beyond. It’s amazing how wooden/composite paddles, string, painters tape, and chalk are history. Gen 4/hybrid/foam core paddles, painted lines, fixed nets, or indoor a/c facilities are the new normal of pickling on the islands.
How often do you play?
I play very occasionally. Maybe once a week or try to practice at least once a week. I teach at K2, 2-3 times a week.
What paddle are you using, and what do you like about it?
The paddle I’m using now is from my sponsors #TeamHead. It is the Gravity tour 2025. With its great defensive stability it assists in controlling the ball in difficult areas of the court. It also feels quick at the kitchen line to return unexpected speed ups.
What is the next goal you’re working toward (in pickleball or otherwise)?
Continuing to help fellow picklers find their way on their pickling endeavors. Overall, I’m just trying to maintain good health, and as my kids would say “go touch grass” (get off the electronics and get outside).
What do you do outside of pickleball (hobbies, work, volunteerism, school, etc.)?
I work at Pearl Harbor Shipyard as a Crane Maintenance Supervisor. Outside of pickleball I’m a gymnastics, swimming, hip hop, hula dancing, and volleyball dad. My two daughters keep me and my wife Lisa busy.
Anything else on your mind?
Thank you to all the “Pukaball” pioneers of Hawaii for paving the path of this fun, social, competitive, addicting game of Aloha we call pickleball. Please give some praise and love to your ambassadors, pickle host, organizers, and instructors. Pickling ain’t easy, but it will be worth it!! Just Keep Pickling!!
