Pickleballer in the 808: Matthew Joswick

“Pickleballer in the 808” Matthew Joswick with his family

Honolulu—I’ve known Matt for a few years, and I discovered that not only does he play pickleball, but he’s “really good” (according to two of my sources).

The official bio: Matt is an awesome financial planner, a dedicated family man, and a competitive pickleball player.

The real deal: Matt is a die-hard, lifelong “Cheesehead” Green Bay Packers fan, grew up playing soccer, loves snowboarding, and his favorite foods are, of course, beer and cheese (LOL) and anything spicy.

Join me in getting to know Pickleballer in the 808 Matthew Joswick!

Currently resides in: Honolulu

Where did you grow up and what high school did you go to?

I grew up in Green Bay, WI. Born and raised. I went to high school in De Pere, WI, a place just off where the Fox River spills into Lake Michigan where Native Americans helped early European explorers navigate waterways by canoe and eventually find the mighty Mississippi.

My wife is born and raised here on Oahu—we’ve made it our home for the last thirteen years.

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

I started playing pickleball about a year or so ago at The Pacific Club. However, It wasn’t until a trip back to Wisconsin to visit family that I experienced the real culture of the sport.

I mean, I was amazed to find so many of the tennis municipal tennis courts converted to dedicated pickleball courts, and a very healthy group of players (Packerland Pickball Players) who organized a calendar of playing time for various ability levels at area courts, kept up a social media presence to coordinate play, and are very welcoming.

These days I enjoy playing anywhere and everywhere I can find a fun game.

What do you do outside of pickleball?

I’m a financial advisor with Edward Jones investments. But more importantly, I’m a father to three young girls. (4, 7, and 9-years-old). My wife and I enjoy playing pickleball with all of them, doing anything in the ocean and pop-up movie nights in the backyard.

Matt clowning around with his family and with his daughter

What do you love most about pickleball?

For me, pickleball has a spark of excitement as something anyone can do—and for me that means not only meeting new people from all over, but having another activity that the whole family can do together.

I’m happy to say, I’m still learning the sport. I look forward playing in more tournaments, and I can see the community developing.

What paddle are you currently playing with?

I’m playing with the Mach 1 Forza 16mm paddle now. I really enjoy the blend of control, power and spin. However, I realize more of a power paddle may be ideal for singles … maybe Santa will be nice to me this year?

6.0 paddles are coming out with some new paddles, and I’m excited to try those.

How often do you play?

I play at least two times a week.

Mahalo Matt, for allowing us to learn more about you!