More Than a Game: Lee Wilson’s Pickleball Journey
Pickleball Spotlight: Lee Wilson (R) with his family; Reyn, Adri, Misty, and Rhys
From Maui roots to Hilo courts, Lee has found purpose, connection, and community through the sport he loves.
Hilo—A few years ago, Lee Wilson picked up pickleball and was instantly hooked by its blend of movement, connection, and challenge. His curiosity first sparked when he overheard “Mr. Tennis” raving about the sport to someone at the courts. Since then, pickleball has become Lee’s way to stay active, spend time with family, and build community. He’s even turned a recent health challenge into purpose…organizing a hometown tournament that raised funds for the American Cancer Society.
In our conversation, Lee shares what keeps him coming back to the court, the lessons he’s carried off of it, and why giving back means so much to him.
Without further ado, please meet Lee Wilson!
Lee, at right, with his son, Rhys
Currently residing in: Hilo.
Where did you grow up, and what high school did you go to?
I was born in Upstate New York and moved to Maui when I was nine. I graduated from Maui High School, ℅ ‘87.
How did you discover pickleball, and when did you start playing?
Both of our boys, Reyn and Rhys, took tennis lessons from Randy Kunimoto who lived just up the street from us in Hilo. One day, about five years ago, I was at the courts watching Rhys practice when I overheard Randy talking really enthusiastically to another parent about pickleball. I thought, “Wow, if Mr. Hilo Tennis is this excited about this funny game, I should check it out.” So I took some starter lessons from Randy and some of the OG players in Hilo, and I was hooked. Within six months I’d lost 30 pounds and was in better shape than I’d been in a decade.
What do you love most about pickleball?
I like that pickleball is a fun workout and that it doesn’t have to be too technical. It’s easy to get started, even without a tennis background (like me). Yet, as you progress there’s so much more you can learn and practice. I also like that no matter the levels you can have fun playing together, like when I’m able to get a game with my sons and nephew who are in their 20’s and are so much more athletic and skilled.
How often do you play?
I play 5-6 days a week, 2-4 hours per day, as long as my body isn’t complaining too much.
What paddle are you using, and what do you like about it?
After I retired in March, my son Rhys gave me a Joola Perseus 4. Its dwell-time has really helped me with my resets and soft game.
What is the next goal you’re working toward (in pickleball or otherwise)?
I recently put on a tournament in Hilo using the Doubles Dink for Cancer platform supported by UTR, APP and the American Cancer Society (ACS). The three-day event attracted 110 players. With the help of my family, more than 40 volunteers from our community, and sponsorship from many local businesses, we raised over $13,000 for ACS. Both of my parents passed away unexpectedly last year, and both were cancer survivors. Also last year I was diagnosed with a very slow-growth type of Leukemia (CLL), so I wanted to do something to support ACS.
What do you do outside of pickleball (hobbies, work, volunteerism, school, etc.)?
Since retiring from HPM (Building Supply), I’ve mostly just been either playing pickleball or planning the recent tournament. I’ve also been involved with Junior Achievement for more than 25 years. And my house project list isn’t getting any shorter, so I’ll need to get back to those soon too.
Anything else on your mind?
Go Bows! My son Rhys and nephew Conner will be competing with their UH Manoa PB club team in collegiate tournaments this fall.
Lee, recognized by Junior Achievement for his contributions
