Meet the Board

Chris Kawakita, President

In the spirit of Dani Rojas’ catchphrase in Ted Lasso (TV’s greatest comedy-drama), I playfully yet sincerely exclaim, “Pickleball is life!” It is an activity—yes—but it is so much more. Pickleball has the power to build communities, foster relationships, and improve health outcomes. This is not hyperbole—I’ve personally experienced all of the above since I discovered the sport a few years ago. 

Fast facts about me: proud parent, Bloomington-Normal resident for 20+ years, IWU and ISU grad, former college tennis player, and State Farm employee. Oh, and pickleball addict/enthusiast.

Bradley Gerike, Vice President

 Coming Soon

Jacy Reeves, Social Media & Marketing Director

There are several studies you'll find saying a sport like Pickleball can help you live longer! Pickleball has brought back my competitiveness I have experienced throughout my 50 years in life and makes me feel like a "youngin" again! The lifelong relationships I have gained in just a couple of years foster a purpose to get up and get out there and experience life. Seeing the joy and the instant addictiveness of the sport in others, helps me to encourage others to play.  The drive I feel to get better and see how far I can go and keep improving my skills gets me to my happy place.  Everywhere I've played within the Bloomington-Normal area has been nothing but positive and encouraging, which I strive to also bring forward.  I am loving this opportunity to volunteer on a board which helps others gain experience and join in the sense of community pickleball provides.

George Wilson, Secretary

Blo/No lifer, I am a self-admitted electronics “geek”. Retired in 2015 after 35yrs at Country Financial, I soon found myself volunteering at the ARC. Unable to shoot pool leagues anymore because of sciatica issues, I switched to… Pickleball(?). Encouraged by  Elicssha “Monie” Sanders, mid-year 2023 I started playing Pickleball at the ARC. I quickly got addicted to the sport, the competition, the new friendships, the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat. 

Addiction: Can you say 9 paddles in 2 years?

Within months of my starting play, I found a wonderful doubles partner. Our play just seemed to click. We started entering and continue to play in local mixed doubles tournaments at the 3.0 skill level. The gold still eludes us, but we have earned many 2nd and 3rd places and have had a lot of fun. While I am still learning the many intricacies of the game, I absolutely love teaching the game. Finally, while I have only played a relatively short time, it is an honor and most certainly a privilege to have been chosen to “serve” on the Board of Directors of the Bloomington Normal Pickleball Club. I look forward to promoting our club, the sport, and the fun it brings within our community and beyond.

 Guy Hanna, Secretary

Coming Soon

Karen O’Shea, Activities Director

Growing up in Normal, I enjoyed playing tennis as a youth. Later, I turned my interests towards music and became a music teacher. Having taught for 33 years so far, I have especially enjoyed teaching elementary students. Pickleball piqued my curiosity, so I decided to give it a try and have been hooked ever since! Through playing in tournaments and meeting lots of people, I have enjoyed making many new friends. I look forward to seeing our club grow and bringing people together within our community. See you on the courts!

Jason Bane, Treasurer 

Coming Soon

It was 35 years ago when my husband came to work in Bloomington-Normal for an intended two years and  then we came to realize what a great place to live, work, and raise a family!  We retired after working 25 years in our dental practice originally located next to the Normal Theatre.  My daughter introduced me to pickleball before she left for college and then I was hooked!  Two months after learning to play pickleball, I ventured into playing tournaments and had so much fun.  I have met many people through pickleball and made wonderful friends.  I also learned early on that I enjoyed helping others learn the game and always remember how I was so graciously welcomed to play with a group of ladies  at Ironwood Park when I was a beginner.  They taught me how to score and gave me tips on how to play! When Tom Wait encouraged me to take over his role as Pickleball Ambassador, it was an honor and a privilege, to help support the growth of this sport which has enhanced my life in many ways!