Pickleballer in the 808: Frank appel

Pickleballer in the 808 Frank Appel

Kailua—Today, we venture out to Windward O’ahu, to the Kailua District Park Gym.

At the gym, you’ll find Pickleballer in the 808, Frank Appel, hosting Open Play several times a week. When I visited, all was friendly and inviting, and it’s likely that Frank’s calming demeanor sets the stage for the culture out there.

Frank was nominated to be featured, because he’s “an unsung hero on the Kailua side...he runs classes and open play times since before COVID days.” And Frank is also a USA Pickleball Ambassador and a referee!

Without further ado, please meet Pickleballer in the 808 Frank Appel!

Currently residing in (city): Kailua

Where did you grow up and what HS did you go to?

I grew up in Northern Virginia and attended Gonzaga College High School in Washington DC (go Eagles!).

I moved to Hawai’i 24 years ago.

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

A friend saw a small notice in the Star Advertiser about learning pickleball in Kailua. We were looking for something to play together so we signed up.

This was eight years ago.

The leader of this pickleball invasion was Pilahi Gregg, truly the pioneer of pickleball on the Windward side. To play pickleball back then we had to create pickleball court lines on the tennis courts with string and duct tape!

What do you do outside of pickleball (hobbies, work, school, etc)?

Travel has become a major focus. Apart from traveling to see family on the East Coast, recent travels include an awesome trip to Antarctica and future travels include 10 days in Paris.

What do you love most about pickleball?

So many things!

Great exercise which is important to us senior players. What is also important to me is the many “pickleball friends” that now enrich my life.

Why did you decide to become a USA Pickleball Ambassador?

The previous Ambassador, Pillahi Gregg, was in the process of relocating to the Big Island and asked me if I would take on the role (probably the 12th person she asked!).

I’m happy to continue Pilahi’s legacy and promote the Kailua Pukaball Ohana.

You’re also a USA Pickleball Level 1 Referee. What made you decide to become a referee?

We can’t have successful tournaments here in Hawaii unless we have referees.

Becoming a referee for me is just one more way to promote the sport. It is a challenge here, since we don’t have certified referee trainers, to get certified.

What paddle are you currently playing with?

I've always played with Paddletek, even though they seem to be a pit behind in innovation. I play with the Tempest Wave Pro.

How often do you play?

Usually 3-4 times a week.

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

Reduce those d#@# unforced errors!