Pickleball is everywhere these days. What started in the U.S. has become a sport enjoyed by people of all ages. And it’s not just catching on in the U.S.—the sport is gaining fans around the world, including Japan.
Meet a Japanese mom in Colorado who competes as a professional pickleball player while balancing work and family life. She shares her love for pickleball, what keeps her motivated, and why chasing her dreams matters.
Where Pickleball has taken her
Pickleball may be her sport now, but Risa Hirano’s story began with soft tennis. She went on to finish second at Japan’s national Inter-High School Championships.
Her background gave her a strong foundation for pickleball. A new connection opened the door to a sponsorship with U.S.-based sports brand DIADEM.
This July, she traveled to Japan to compete in the KINTO APP Asia Qualifier Utsunomiya 2026 and finished in the top three.
Finding What You Love
Risa says her experience in sports has taught her to value more than just the results—the journey, the connections, and the support she has received along the way. Being part of the pickleball community has reminded her how important it is to support one another.
Through her own journey, Risa hopes her kids will see how rewarding it can be to work hard for something you truly love. And if they find something they’re passionate about, she wants to be their biggest supporter.
Risa also coaches pickleball at Life Time in Centennial, Colorado. With plenty of kids’ programs available, parents can enjoy time on the court while their children have fun with activities.
Curious about pickleball? See what it’s all about!
LIFE TIME Centennial
Website：LIFE TIME Centennial
If you’re interested in taking a lesson with Risa, please contact her directly.
Phone：719-355-4359
Email：risa1028h@gmail.com
Miho
Originally from Japan, she writes in English and Japanese about travel and culture, finding joy in photography, great food, and spending time with her dogs.
Blog : https://komorebimemoirs.com
Instagram : www.instagram.com/komorebimemoirs