Pickleballer in the 808: Margie Kartras

Pickleballer in the 808 Margie Kartras

Honolulu—A few people told me that I needed to feature Margie Kartras. But since she typically shuns the spotlight, it was tough to convince her to be featured in this newsletter/blog.

There were a few people who went “to bat” for this feature, and I’m so glad Margie agreed.

She’s a former competitive tennis player and her lessons and coaching have been praised by many. Margie has also helped to build the program out at Palama Settlement, where her work touches tons of pickleballers.

Without further ado, please meet Margie Kartras!

Margie (center) took Gold in Women's Singles 55-59 at the Huntsman World Senior Games in St. George, Utah, in 2019

Currently residing in: Honolulu

Where did you grow up and where did you go to college?

I grew up in East Tennessee and went to college to play tennis at the University of North Carolina.

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

I discovered pickleball when I hurt my shoulder and couldn't serve in tennis any more. It was probably 2018, when I was at Diamond Head Tennis Center feeling sorry for myself because of my shoulder, and asked someone to show me how to play this strange looking game.

I was hooked in about five minutes!

The pickleball community was very welcoming and took me in quickly. Before long, I had a whole new set of friends, hobby, and most importantly I was getting better at something instead of thinking about how I couldn't play tennis anymore.

What do you do outside of pickleball?

Well, I have to say "Pickleball is my life" but I do enjoy going to the beach, going on walks and taking in the beauty of nature.

I enjoy reading and watching pickleball videos! I’m retired, but in my previous life, I taught elementary school, was a college tennis coach for both men's and women's programs, was a tennis pro at a country club, and was even a barista at Starbucks!

Now, I volunteer at Palama Settlement teaching for their pickleball program.

Margie (R) at Palama Settlement, with Kea (L)

What do you love most about pickleball?

I enjoy teaching the game and seeing other people "Get It!"

Our program at Palama, also run by Kea Gillis and Lori Fujikawa, is based on "Pay it Forward". We are all volunteers passing on the skills and spirit of pickleball. It's great to see how it has grown and especially to see how other people love teaching and passing on the good spirit of pickleball.

The game has gotten so big and everyone is in it now for money. We strive to show that it can be done better with having a love for the game and a desire to help people.

What paddle are you currently playing with?

I play with the Engage Pursuit MX 6.0, which is a great paddle. However, I always say, "It's the Indian, not the arrow!"

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

My day to day goals are to stay healthy and help others in anyway I can. I would also like to see more courts on Oahu that would fit the need of the growing and changing pickleball population.

At this point there aren't enough courts to satisfy all those that want to just play "Open Play", those that are beginners and just want to learn, and those that have their own game and want to drill and get better.

How often do you play?

I teach 2 days a week and try and play 2-3 days a week, if my body will let me! I have learned the hard way not to be greedy with too much play, but to try and make my play more quality.

Anything else on your mind that you’d like to share? 

"Pay it Forward" in any way you can. You never know who you may reach.

Thank you Margie, for sharing your story, and for the work you do at Palama to further pickleball!