Family, Fun, and a Few Good Dinks: Meet Darin Dalida
Pickleball Spotlight: Darin Dalida
From coaching little league to coaching pickleball, Darin’s journey is all about connection and a shared love of the game with his family.
Darin’s pickleball journey began with a simple invite from his coworker and HPM ambassador Gary Nakano. Darin picked up pickleball shortly after the COVID era— “It was perfect timing,” he recalls.
For Darin, pickleball isn’t just about competition — it’s about connection. “I love that it’s fun, competitive, and a great workout, but what I really love is getting to play with my son DJ and my wife Michelle,” he says. The trio hits the courts at least three times a week, and Darin squeezes in an extra drill session whenever he can.
When he’s not rallying with his family, Darin is coaching the Niu Valley Middle School pickleball team alongside Gary Nakano. As the program enters its fourth season, he’s proud to see the growing excitement among young players. “It’s awesome to see their interest in the sport,” he says.
Looking ahead, Darin has one goal that stands out: “Maybe try to play a tournament with my son DJ.”
Without further ado, please meet Darin Dalida!
(L) Darin with his son DJ and (R) with his son DJ and wife Michelle (in lavender)
Currently residing in: Waikiki.
Where did you grow up, and what high school did you go to?
I grew up in Waipahu and attended Waipahu High.
How did you discover pickleball, and when did you start playing?
I discovered pickleball through my coworker and one of your ambassadors, Gary Nakano. He invited me out to play one weekend, and I have been playing ever since.
What do you love most about pickleball?
I started playing around right after COVID-19. I had just finished coaching my son's little league baseball team, and I was going to take a break from coaching so I had time to play.
What I love most about pickleball is it's just fun and competitive, and you get to exercise at the same time…but what I really like is that I get to play with my son, DJ, and my wife, Michelle.
How often do you play?
I try to play at least 3 times a week. I also try to drill once a week.
What paddle are you using, and what do you like about it?
I currently use the Agassi paddle. I think it just fits my playing style, and I like the feel of this paddle.
What is the next goal you’re working toward (in pickleball or otherwise)?
My next goal: Maybe try to play a tournament with my son, DJ.
(R) Darin, 2nd from left, at the Aloha PIckleball Games and Festival (Nov 2024)
What do you do outside of pickleball (hobbies, work, volunteerism, school, etc.)?
Outside of pickleball, not too much. Ever since we started playing pickleball, that has been our only hobby, really. Playing, coaching.
Anything else on your mind?
Currently, I coach our pickleball team here at Niu Valley Middle School with Gary Nakano. This will be our 4th season, so getting our kids ready.. It's awesome to see someone interested in the sport. I compete in pickleball tournaments at the 4.5 level.
